Places to visit in North India: India is a diverse country, with a mix of different cultures, religions, cuisine and altitude. Given its diversity, there is no dearth of tourist places and attractions in India. North India is a region of India where you can go for a trip with your family or friends or for a honeymoon. Apart from these, North India is also a paradise for mountain lovers and adventure enthusiasts. If you are looking for places to visit in North India with your friends or family, then you must read this article completely. In this article, we will tell about the top 10 places to visit in North India in 2024.
Top 10 best places to visit in North India in 2024
| No. | Best places | Stats |
|---|---|---|
| 10. | Agra | Uttar Pradesh |
| 9. | Delhi | New Delhi |
| 8. | Jaisalmer | Rajasthan |
| 7. | Chandigarh | Punjab |
| 6. | Leh | Ladakh |
| 5. | Srinagar | Jammu and Kashmir |
| 4. | Mussoorie | Uttarakhand |
| 3. | Nainital | Uttarakhand |
| 2. | Shimla | Himachal Pradesh |
| 1. | Kullu and Manali | Himachal Pradesh |
10. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Agra is one of the major tourist destinations in North India. This historical city is famous all over the world due to its beauty and historical places, which attracts tourists from India as well as from all over the world. Agra hosts the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world and is a matter of pride for our country India. But not only Taj Mahal is worth seeing in Agra, but there are many such places which make Agra a beautiful tourist destination of India.
Best places to visit in Agra
- Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal is a World Heritage mausoleum located in the city of Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, and one of the 7 Wonders of the World. It was built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.[ It is made of white marble. The Taj Mahal is on the banks of the Yamuna River and has lush gardens surrounding it.
- Agra Fort: Agra Fort is a UNESCO declared World Heritage Site. This fort is located in Agra city of Uttar Pradesh state of India. The world famous monument Taj Mahal is present only about 2.5 kilometers north-west of it. This is the most important fort of India. India's Mughal emperors Babar, Humayun, Akbar, Jahangir, Shahjahan and Aurangzeb lived here. The fort is made of red stone and has several palaces, mosques, gardens and museums.
- Fatehpur Sikri: An old city located at a distance of 36 km from Agra, which was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar as his capital. The city is made of red stone and has many buildings, gates, palaces, mosques and temples. The city is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site and places like Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, Jodha Bai Mahal, Jama Masjid and Salim Chishti Dargah are worth seeing.
- Itmad-ud-Daula: Another beautiful monument of Agra, built by Noor Jahan, wife of Mughal emperor Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The monument is made of white marble and has carvings, lattice work and canopies. This monument is considered to be a smaller version of the Taj Mahal and is also called the Baby Taj.
9. Delhi
Delhi is the capital of India and a major tourist destination of North India which caters to the needs of every type of tourists and travelers. Delhi is perfect in everything from its tourist places to its nightlife, where you can visit the famous places of Delhi with your family, enjoy the nightlife with friends and enjoy the famous street food here. Delhi attracts everyone from history lovers to architecture lovers, nature lovers, photographers and picnickers. Being the largest city in the world, everyone can spend quality time with their family and friends here.
Best places to visit in Delhi
- India Gate: This is a magnificent monument, built in memory of more than 82,000 soldiers of India who died in the First World War and the Afghan War. This monument is located on Rajpath, and there are many parks, museums, and markets around it. From this memorial you can see the beautiful view of Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House and Rajpath.
- Lotus Temple: This is a temple built in the shape of a lotus flower, which is a world famous place of worship of religion. This temple is open to people of any religion, caste or sect, and there is a feeling of peace and meditation here. This temple consists of 27 yellow stone lotus petals, which are in the middle of a huge pond.
- Red Fort: This is an ancient and royal fort, which was built by the Mughal emperor Shahjahan in the 17th century. The fort is made of red stone, and has several palaces, mosques, gardens, and museums. This fort is an important site of India's Independence Day, where the Prime Minister hoists the tricolor every year.
- Qutub Minar: This is a historical site, which houses the world's tallest stone minaret, which was built between the 12th and 13th centuries. This tower is 73 meters high, and has 379 steps. This minar was built by Qutubuddin Aibak and his successors, and there are many temples, mosques, and monuments around it.
8. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Located close to the Pakistan border, Jaisalmer is a major tourist destination located in the north-western state of Rajasthan, India. The place is known for its desert and some other tourist attractions that make it an interesting destination to visit in North India. It is called the 'Golden City' because of the golden dunes of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is adorned with golden yellow sandstone along with lakes, ornate Jain temples, havelis and palaces making it one of the best destinations in North India for tourists, history and architecture lovers.
Best places to visit in Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer Fort: Jaisalmer's largest and oldest attraction, built in the 12th century. This fort is built on a mountain and has 99 towers, 4 gates, 7 temples and many mansions. This fort is still alive.
- Patavon Ki Haveli: The most beautiful and huge mansion of Jaisalmer, which was built by a rich businessman for his 5 sons in the 19th century. This mansion is divided into 5 different parts and each part has carvings, lattices, windows. This mansion is now a museum, where you can see old clothes, weapons, coins and artefacts.
- Gadisar Lake: A historical and religious place in Jaisalmer, built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century. This lake is surrounded by a dam and has many temples, ponds and gardens on its banks. This lake was created to save rain water and now one can go boating and fishing here.
- Bada Bagh: A historical and peaceful place at a distance of 6 km from Jaisalmer, where the tombs of the kings of Jaisalmer are buried. These tombs are made of yellow stone and have carvings and umbrellas. This mausoleum offers a beautiful view in the middle of the desert and the sunset can also be seen from here.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan in 2024
7. Chandigarh Punjab
Chandigarh, the first planned city of independent India, was built by Le Corbusier. This is one of the beautiful tourist places of North India. Even now, despite changes in façade, the city still has wide boulevards, gardens, lakes and majestic structures. The city serves as an entry point for many small communities of Punjab and a well-liked shopping locale. Chandigarh is home to many beautiful monuments, unique gardens, lakes and picnic areas. While it boasts of upscale eating establishments and delicious restaurants, it also serves mouth-watering street cuisine. By train: Chandigarh Railway Station, which is about 8 kilometers from the city centre,
Best places to visit in Chandigarh
- Rock Garden: A unique garden decorated with artefacts made from waste. Here you can see different types of sculptures, animals, and humans.
- Rose Garden: A huge garden, where more than 1600 roses are planted. Rose Festival is also celebrated here every year in February.
- Capitol Complex: The political and cultural center point of Chandigarh, housing the Assembly, the High Court and the Secretariat. Here you can also see places like Open Hand Monument, Geometric Hill and Tower of Shadows.
- Pinjore Garden: A Mughal-style garden at a distance of 22 km from Chandigarh, built in the 17th century. Here you can see Charbagh, palace, zoo and museum.
6. Leh Ladakh
Ladakh, one of the most prominent tourist destinations in North India, extends from the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram Range to the main Great Himalayas in the south. Leh Ladakh is considered to be one of the best places to visit in the North because of its difficult terrains, beautiful snowfall and many adventure activities. Leh Ladakh remains a favorite place for tourists from India and abroad due to its attractive monasteries, beautiful lakes, tourist places and magnificent markets.
Best places to visit in Leh Ladakh
- Pangong Lake: This is a beautiful and blue lake, which is spread between India and Tibet. This lake is famous for its colorful water and the image that blends with the sky. This lake was also seen in the film 3 Idiots.
- Magnetic Hill: This is a mysterious mountain, where your car automatically starts moving towards the mountain. These mountains appear like this because of the force of gravity. This mountain is at a distance of 30 kilometers from Leh.
- Nubra Valley: This is a unique and attractive valley, which is at a distance of 150 km from Leh. In this valley you can see places like Two Hump Camels, Hunder Sand Dunes, Diskit Monastery, and Siachen Glacier. To reach this valley you have to pass through Khardung La Pass, which is the highest motorable pass in the world.
- Hemis Monastery: This is the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery of Ladakh, which was established in the 11th century. This math is inside Hemis National Park, where you can see snow leopard and other animals. It is also famous for the Mathematic Hemis Festival, which is celebrated every year in June or July.
- Zanskar Valley: This is another beautiful and adventurous valley, which is at a distance of 105 km from Leh. In this valley you can see places like Zanskar River, Drang Drung Glacier, Phugtal Monastery, and Chadar Trek. Chadar Trek is a very difficult and romantic trek in which you walk across the jammed Zanskar River.
5. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar, sometimes called 'Heaven on Earth', is as picturesque as a beautiful painting. Located on the banks of the Jhelum River, this tourist destination in North India has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year, which contributes to the constant influx of tourists to this city, which offers a variety of breathtaking natural views. By Train: To take a train to Srinagar one has to reach either Jammu Tawi or Udhampur railway station.
Best places to visit in Srinagar
- Dal Lake: The most famous and popular lake of Srinagar, where you can go hunting or enjoy the water in a houseboat. You can see many types of parties in this lake.
- Dachigam National Park: Close to Srinagar and a national park with a variety of species, where you can see Kashmiri deer, Indian buffalo, leopard, barasingha, cheetah and other animals. There is also a lake here, which is called Mercer Lake.
- Pari Mahal: The iconic and historical palace of Srinagar, built by Dara Shikoh for his guru Mulla Shah during the Mughal period. This palace is built on the top of a hill and there is a garden around it, where many types of flowers and plants grow.
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Garden: A modern and spacious garden in Srinagar, built in the memory of late Indira Gandhi, the garden also has a fountain, a lake, a college course and a zoo. This garden is a symbol of peace and greenery.
- Nagin Lake: Another lake in Srinagar, marked by Dal Lake, but the water is clear and clean. In this lake also you can stay in Shikara or houseboat and enjoy the waves of water. There are also many gardens and temples around the lake, such as Hari Pahad, Naagin Bagh and Hijratbal Temple.
- Wolar Lake: A huge lake at a distance of 65 km from Srinagar, Mani type, the largest freshwater lake in Asia. There are many types of fish in this lake
4. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Next up is Mussoorie if your notion of an ideal holiday includes serene hills, an unspoiled environment and a holiday that is authentic in every way. At an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level and with a cool, pleasant climate all year round, Mussoorie, also known as The Queen of the Hills, is nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan peaks. Couples on honeymoon often choose Mussoorie as a holiday destination because of its natural beauty. There are many places to visit in Mussoorie and this is the place to visit if you want to witness the stunning view of the gently sloping green mountains that contrast with it. Snow covered peaks of the Himalayas. By Train: Dehradun is the nearest railway station and is connected to many major cities. By Air: The nearest airport to Mussoorie is Jollygrant Airport in Dehradun.
Best places to visit in Mussoorie
- Kempty Falls: A famous waterfall, where you can swim in the water and have a picnic.
- Lal Taba: The highest point in Mussoorie, from where you can see the Himalayan peaks.
- Company Garden: A beautiful garden, where you can enjoy flowers, plants and grass.
- Mall Road: Missouri's central market, where you can buy food, clothes, accessories and other goods.
- Lake Missouri: A picturesque lake, where you can enjoy boating and mountain views.
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3. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital, one of the most popular places to visit in North India, is a beautiful hill station in the state of Uttarakhand. Nainital is a unique hill station located in the middle of Kumaon hills also known as 'Nani Lake'. Known as a city of natural beauty and lakes, Nainital is famous for its snow-capped hills and serene lakes. Because this place is one of the most peaceful places to visit in North India. If you are an adventure lover, you can enjoy various adventure activities with a trip to Nainital.
Best places to visit in Nainital
- Nini Lake: This lake is the central center of attention of Nini Lake. This lake is located in the center of Ninital city and boating can be enjoyed here.
- Snow View Point: This place is good to enjoy the amazing views of snow capped mountains from Ninital.
- Tunn Top: It is a high peak situated above Ninital. From here you will also get amazing mountain views.
- Gurudwara Shri Govand Garh: This Gurudwara is situated near Ninital and here your religious soul will find solace.
- Nini Tal Raj Bachhon: This building is known as the residence of the Governor of Nini Tal and huge gardens can also be seen here.
2. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Best places to visit in India: Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and also the most popular hill station in Northern India. Shimla's Mall Road, Ridge, Toy Train and colonial architecture is very popular among tourists, honeymooners and families visiting here. Shimla is situated at an altitude of 2200 meters and is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the country.
Best Places to visit in Shimla
- Jakhu Temple: It is an ancient temple situated on the highest peak of Shimla. This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and houses a 108 feet high Hanuman statue. Here you will also see monkeys.
- The Ridge: It is a large open ground located in the center of Shimla. Here you can get a wonderful glimpse of Shimla and enjoy programs by a variety of artists. There is also a wooden church which is a symbol of Shimla.
- Kufri: It is a small hill station which is 16 km from Shimla. Here you can enjoy snowfall and participate in activities like skiing, horse riding, yak riding and trekking.
- Chail: It is a serene and beautiful hill station which is 45 km from Shimla. Here you can see a huge Chail Palace which was earlier the residence of the Maharaja of Patiala. Here you can also see a beautiful garden, a dynastic golf course and a world record holder cricket ground.
- Naldehra: This is another hill station which is 22 km from Shimla. Here you can see a very beautiful golf course which is the oldest golf course in India. Here you can wander among valleys, rivers and pine trees.
1. Kullu and Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Best places to visit in India: Kullu and Manali are two popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh nestled in the snow-covered ranges of the Himalayas. Both these tourist places top the list of most popular tourist places in India. Kullu is famous for valleys, picturesque sites and temples while Manali is known for rivers, mountains and adventure activities.
Best Places to visit in Kullu and Manali
- Rohtang Pass: It is a snow covered pass which is 51 km from Manali. From here you can see a spectacular glimpse of the Himalayas. Here you can enjoy snowfall and participate in activities like skiing, snowboarding and sledding.
- Hidimba Devi Temple: It is an ancient temple which was built during the Mahabharata period. This temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi who was the wife of Bhima. This temple is made of cedar wood and its spire is 24 meters high. This temple is situated in a peaceful and lush green campus.
- Solang Valley: It is a beautiful valley which is 14 km from Manali. This valley is an ideal place for adventure sports. Here you can enjoy activities like paragliding, ziplining, ropeway, ATV riding and bungee jumping.
- Manikaran Sahib: It is a famous Sikh Gurudwara which is 19 km from Kullu and 24 km from Manali. This Gurudwara is associated with the miracles of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. There is a hot water spring here in which people take bath to wash away their sins.
- Jogini Waterfall: It is a grand waterfall located near Vashishtha village. This waterfall is found in the Beas river. Here you can enjoy a romantic and peaceful atmosphere. To reach here you will have to do a small trek.
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About the Author:
Kaif Ansari