THE ULTIMATE LIST: 20 MUST-SEE TOURIST PLACES IN INDIA 2024

1. Goa

On India’s western coast, Goa is a sun-soaked haven known for its beaches, lively nightlife, and Portuguese architecture. From the markets of Mapusa to the serene shores of Palolem, Goa offers a diverse experience. With cultural gems like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Dudhsagar Waterfalls, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Ideal Duration: 4-5 days
• Places to Visit in Goa: Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Aguada Fort, Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach, Shree Mangesha Temple, Immaculate Conception Church
• Things to Do in Goa: Beach hopping, water sports, shopping at flea markets, visiting Portuguese-style churches, enjoying the nightlife, tasting authentic Goan cuisine
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Dabolim International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Vasco-Da-Gama Railway Station (North Goa); Madgaon Junction (South Goa)

2. Agra

Agra, located in northern India, is renowned for the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city boasts a rich historical heritage, featuring architectural marvels like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The Yamuna River adds to the city’s charm, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors exploring the Mughal-era wonders.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Duration: 2 days
• Best Places to Visit in Agra: Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Abkar’s Tomb, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Mehtab Bagh, Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, Dolphin Water Park, Wildlife Conservation and Care Centre
• Things to Do in Agra: Boat ride on Yamuna River, explore famous monuments, watch the Light and Sound Show at Agra Fort, visit Fatehpur Sikri, shop at Kinari Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar and TDI Mall, relish authentic Mughlai dishes and street foods
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Agra Airport; New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Agra Cantonment Railway Station

3. Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the “Land of Kings,” is a vibrant state in northwest India known for its regal palaces, colorful culture, and vast deserts. The capital, Jaipur, is famous for its pink-hued architecture, while Udaipur offers romantic lakeside palaces. Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort and Jaisalmer’s golden dunes are among the many treasures that make Rajasthan a captivating destination.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Ideal Duration: 6-7 days
• Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Mount Abu, Chittorgarh, Ranthambore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park
• Things to Do in Rajasthan: Exploring forts and palaces, paying respect at temples, enjoying folk dance and music festivals like Bikaner Camel Festival, Pushkar Fair, Gangaur Festival, Elephant Festival and Teej, visiting wildlife parks, gorging on delectable Rajasthani dishes, shopping
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport:
    • Jaipur International Airport
    • Maharana Pratap Airport
    • Jodhpur Airport
    • Jaisalmer Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Railway stations at Jaipur, Udaipur, Ajmer, Alwar, Bharatpur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kota, Nagaur, Sikar, Bikaner, etc

4. Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, is a bustling metropolis where ancient history and modernity coexist. Old Delhi showcases historic landmarks like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, while New Delhi is home to the India Gate and the Lotus Temple. The city is a melting pot of cultures, offering a diverse culinary scene and lively markets.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Delhi: Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Purana Qila, Jantar Mantar, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Ji, Nehru Park, Janpath Market
• Things to Do in Delhi: Explore Connaught Place, Sarojini Nagar Market and Hauz Khas Village; enjoy delicacies at Parathe Wali Gali; shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, antiques and more at Dilli Haat; experience Delhi’s nightlife, take a HoHo bus tour
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: New Delhi Railway Station

5. Munnar

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a hill station known for its lush tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and serene landscapes. The Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, and tea estate tours provide a tranquil escape into nature.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Munnar: Echo Point, Top Station, Atukkad Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Tata Tea Museum, Pallivasal Falls, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Rose Garden, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
• Things to Do in Munnar: Speed boating and horse riding at Mattupetty Dam, enjoying boat rides at Kundala Dam and Lake, visiting tea plantations, enjoying fun rides at Wonder Valley Adventure and Amusement Park, rock climbing, trekking and rappelling
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Aluva Railway Station

6. Coorg

Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka, famous for its coffee plantations, verdant landscapes, and the Abbey Falls. The region’s pleasant climate and spice plantations make it a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Coorg: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Shri Omkareshwara Temple, Government Museum Madikeri, Raja’s Tomb, Talakaveri, Madikeri Fort, Honnamana Kere Lake, Namdroling Monastery
• Things to Do in Coorg: Spending quiet time near waterfalls, taking a walk-through coffee and spice plantations, enjoying river rafting, going on a wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park, trekking to Tadiandamol Peak
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Mysuru Junction

7. Manali

Set amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Manali is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Adventure enthusiasts flock here for trekking, skiing, and paragliding, while the Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley offer breathtaking views and recreational activities.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Manali: Manu Temple, Hidimba Devi Temple, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Jogini Falls, Himalayan Nyinmapa Tibetan Buddhist Temple, Nehru Kund, Mall Road
• Things to Do in Manali: Paragliding, parachuting and horse riding at Solang Valley, mountain biking, skiing and sledge riding at Rohtang Pass, trekking, river rafting, ziplining, zorbing
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station

8. Ooty

 Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is a charming hill station in Tamil Nadu known for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, and botanical gardens are major attractions, making it a favourite getaway for nature enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
• Best Places to Visit in Ooty: Ooty Botanical Gardens, Dolphin’s Nose, Rose Garden, Avalanche Lake, Doddabetta Peak, St Stephan’s Church, Thread Garden, Kalhatti Falls, Annamalai Temple, Kamraj Sagar Lake, Catherine Falls
• Things to Do in Ooty: Boating, birdwatching, enjoying a picnic and nature photography at Ooty Lake and Emerald Lake, going on a toy train ride, visiting tea gardens at Kotagiri, trekking
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Udagamandalam Railway Station

9. Lonavala and Khandala

Located in the Sahyadri range near Mumbai, Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations celebrated for their lush greenery, misty landscapes, and iconic vantage points like Tiger Point and Bhushi Dam. The region is also famous for its chikki (sweet snack).

• Best Time to Visit: December to February; July to September
• Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
• Best Places to Visit in Lonavala and Khandala: Tiger’s Leap, Rajmachi Fort, Aamby Valley, Lohagad Fort, Bhushi Dam, Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum, Visapur Fort, Tikona Fort, Narayani Dham Temple
• Things to Do in Lonavala and Khandala: Exploring the popular rock-cut Bhaja and Karla Caves, enjoying a fun-filled day at Imagicaa Entertainment Park, planning a picnic at Lonavala Lake, exploring local shops
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport; Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Lonavala Railway Station; Khandala Railway Station

10. Shillong

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is known for its charming hills, waterfalls, and vibrant culture. The picturesque Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and the living root bridges in Cherrapunji make Shillong a captivating destination in Northeast India.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Ideal Duration: 4-5 days
• Best Places to Visit in Shillong: Umiam Lake, Elephant Waterfalls, Shillong Peak, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Police Bazaar, Don Bosco Museum, Sweet Falls, Phan Nonglait Park, Spread Eagle Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Sohpetbneng
• Things to Do in Shillong: Picnicking, shopping, trekking, cliff jumping, zip-lining, river rafting
• How to Reach
  • Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport; Guwahati International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Guwahati Railway Station

11. Varanasi: Spiritual Essence on the Ganges

Varanasi, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Known for its spiritual significance, the city is dotted with ghats, temples, and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, creating a unique and deeply cultural atmosphere.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Varanasi: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, Shri Durga Temple, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Sarnath Museum, Sankatmochan Temple
• Things to Do in Varanasi: Seeking blessings at temples, enjoying delectable Banarasi food and sweetmeats, shopping for Banarasi silk sarees at Thateri Bazaar, Vishwanath Gali and Temple Bazaar
• How to Reach:
  Train Station: Varanasi Junction,
  Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International

12. Kolkata: Cultural Extravaganza by the Hooghly

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a city with a rich history, colonial architecture, and literary heritage. The Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and Durga Puja festivities showcase the city’s blend of tradition and modernity.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Ideal Duration: 4-5 days
• Best Places to Visit in Kolkata: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Science City, Kalighat, Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, St Paul’s Cathedral, Belur Math, Eden Gardens, Indian Museum
• Things to Do in Kolkata: Enjoying water rides and rollercoasters at Nicco Park, spend some peaceful time at Eco Park, try lip-smacking street food, explore Park Street
• How to Reach:
  Train Station: Howdah Railway Station; Sealdah Railway Station
  Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International

13. Amritsar: Golden Temple and Beyond

Amritsar, in the state of Punjab, is synonymous with the Golden Temple, a spiritual and architectural marvel. The city also witnessed the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh, offering a vibrant culinary scene with its famous Punjabi cuisine.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Amritsar: Akal Takht, Durgiana Temple, Attari Wagah Border, Partition Museum, Gobindgarh Fort, Central Sikh Museum, War Memorial and Museum, Gurudwara Shaheed Ganj Sahib
• Things to Do in Amritsar: Trying Punjabi cuisine and street food, doing ‘Langar Seva’ at Golden Temple, buying colourful souvenirs, having fun at Suncity Amusement and Waterpark, birdwatching at Harike Wetlands
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International
  Train Station: Amritsar Junction

14. Sikkim: Himalayan Jewel

Sikkim is a small but diverse state in the eastern Himalayas. Its lush landscapes, monasteries and stunning Tsomgo Lake make it a great place to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The capital, Gangtok, provides a base for exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June; October to December
• Ideal Duration: 4-5 days
• Best Places to Visit in Sikkim: Gangtok, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, Pelling, Zuluk, Gurudongmar Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Namchi, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden
• Things to Do in Sikkim: Riding cable cars, river rafting, paragliding, trekking, shopping, mountain biking, camping, riding a helicopter over Gangtok Valley, riding yak at Tsomgo Lake
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Bagdogra Airport
  Car: Well-connected by road
  Nearest Train Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station

15. Shimla: Queen of the Hills

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a classic hill station known for its colonial architecture, toy train, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The Mall Road, Christ Church, and Jakhoo Temple are popular attractions in this charming destination.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Mall Road, Kufri, Green Valley, Jakhu Temple, Chail, The Ridge, Shimla Christ Church, Narkanda, Himalayan Bird Park, Annandale, Himachal State Museum, Theog, Kali Bari Temple
• Things to Do in Shimla: Tasting mouth-watering foods and cocktails at Café Shimla Point, riding the toy train, skiing, trekking, horse riding
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport
  Train Station: Kalka Railway Station; Chandigarh Railway Station

16. Rishikesh: Yoga Capital by the Ganges

Rishikesh, situated on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttarakhand, is a spiritual and adventure hub. Known for yoga retreats, the iconic Laxman Jhula, and white-water rafting, Rishikesh attracts seekers of both inner peace and outdoor thrills.

• Best Time to Visit:  February to June and September to November
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days
• Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Beatles Ashram, Shivpuri
• Things to Do in Rishikesh: Yoga and Meditation, River Rafting in the Ganges, Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, Trekking to Kunjapuri Temple, Bungee Jumping, Wildlife Safari in Rajaji National Park, Visit Ayurvedic Spas for Rejuvenation
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
  Train Station: Rishikesh Railway Station

17. Leh Ladakh: Land of High Passes

In the northernmost part of India, Leh Ladakh is a high-altitude desert region surrounded by majestic mountains. The monasteries of Thiksey and Hemis, Pangong Lake, and the Nubra Valley offer a unique and breathtaking landscape.

• Best Time to Visit:  May to September
• Ideal Duration: 7 to 10 days
• Best Places to Visit Leh Ladakh: Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass, Leh Palace, Magnetic Hill, Hemis Monastery, Tso Moriri Lake, Lamayuru Monastery, Zanskar Valley
• Things to Do: Trekking, Motorbiking, Monasteries, River Rafting, Camel Safaris
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
  Nearest Train Station: Jammu Railway Station

18. Nainital: Lake District of India

Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a picturesque hill station surrounding a beautiful lake. The Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, and boating on Naini Lake are popular activities in this serene destination.

• Best Time to Visit:  March to June and September and October
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days
• Best Places to Visit Nainital: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Naina Peak, Mall Road, Bhimtal, Nainital Zoo, Eco Cave Gardens
• Things to Do: Boating, Cable car ride, Explore the Cave Garden and Eco Cave Gardens, Shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Pantnagar Airport
  Train: Kathgodam Railway Station

19. Mussoorie: The Queen of Hills

Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Mussoorie is a charming hill station in Uttarakhand that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. Camel’s Back Road, Kempty Falls, and Mall Road are among the attractions that make Mussoorie a favored retreat.

• Best Time to Visit:  April to June and September to November
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days
• Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Mussoorie Lake, Mall Road
• Things to do: Boating, Cable car ride, Trekking, Camping
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
  Train Station: Rishikesh Railway Station

20. Darjeeling: Himalayan Tea Haven

Darjeeling, perched in the foothills of the Himalayas, is famous for its tea plantations, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and stunning views of Kanchenjunga. The Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop, and Tiger Hill are must-visit spots in this enchanting destination.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• Ideal Duration: 4 to 6 days
• Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Nightingale Park, Rock Garden, Singalila National Park, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Things to Do: Enjoy the toy train ride, take a ride on the ropeway, explore tea gardens and monasteries, trek, and river rafting
• How to Reach:
  Airport: Bagdogra Airport
  Train Station: New Jalpaiguri Junction