India is a truly diverse country, be it culturally or geographically. No two cities or states are the same! And that means, there are plenty of amazing holiday destinations for different types of travellers, across the country. However, there are certain places that are heavily frequented by tourists and some people even end up visiting the same destination several times. Such cliched destinations have a charm of their own though and usually promise a timeless experience every time. So, in this blog, we will talk about the top 10 places to visit in India that are totally worth the hype.
1.Goa
Famous for its pristine beaches, hippie vibes, laidback lifestyle, and vibrant parties, Goa is counted among the best holiday destinations in India. The union territory is frequented by tourists year-round, especially in the winter season when the climate is pleasant, and the entire place comes alive with Christmas and New Year celebrations. Goa is definitely one of the top 5 tourist places in India. However, seasoned tourists do not shun Goa during summer either. If you are looking for a peaceful and economical holiday, try to visit Goa during the offseason when the sun-kissed beaches, flea markets, and other attractions are less crowded.
2.The Taj Mahal, Agra
Perhaps India's most recognizable building, the Taj Mahal is also the world's most famous testimony to the power of love. Named after Mumtaz Mahal, the favorite wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, this most beautiful of mausoleums was begun upon her death in 1631 and took 20,000 workmen until 1648 to complete.
Incorporating many elements of Islamic design including arches, minarets, an onion-shaped dome, and black calligraphy inlaid around the entrance, the Taj Mahal is largely constructed of white marble. Adding to its splendor are delicate inlaid floral patterns and precious and semi-precious stones such as jade, lapis lazuli, diamonds, and mother of pearl.
The best time to visit is either at dawn or dusk when the atmosphere is brilliantly altered by the change in lighting. If possible, try to catch a view of the Taj Mahal's reflection from the far bank of the Yamuna River-it makes for a memorable (and safe) selfie.
3. Jaipur and Udaipur
Anyone who wishes to unearth the traditional Indian Diaspora must refer to Jaipur and Udaipur. The charming story does not end here as there is no dearth of other fascinating features including geographical locations, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal or 'Palace of Winds'. One gets wonder struck to witness gorgeous forts and palaces turning into heritage hotels. City Palace and the Lake Place of Udaipur are inevitable stops. There are a number of cities in Rajasthan to visit but the Jaipur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer are the first choice of everyone.
Tourist Attractions in Jaipur : Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Local Markets, Chokhi Dhani, Raj Mandir, Sisodia Rani Garden, Galta Ji Temple etc.
Tourist Attractions in Udaipur : City Palace, Lake Pichola, Fatehsagar Lake, Vintage Car Museum, Jagdish Temple, Eklingji Temple, Jaisamand Lake, Saheliyon ki Bari, Local Markets etc.
4.Manali
Situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Manali draws tourists with its natural beauty and tranquillity. The hill station is frequented by travellers from across the country making it one of the highly renowned vacation places in India, especially during the summer season when cities reel under the scorching heat. Snow-capped mountains, dense forests, riverine valleys, and sparkling streams add to the beauty of the hill station and make it one of the most popular holiday destinations in India. Another charming thing about Manali is that it showcases a beautiful blend of rich cultural heritage and modernisation. Besides spending time in serenity and soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, you can engage in thrilling adventure activities here for a memorable vacation.
5.The Red Fort, New Delhi
Built by Shah Jahan in 1648 as the seat of Mughal power – a role it maintained until 1857 – the magnificent crescent-shaped Red Fort in New Delhi, named after the stunning red sandstone used in its construction, covers a vast area of more than two square kilometers, all of it surrounded by a large moat.
Highlights include its two largest gates: the impressive Lahore Gate (the fort's main entrance) and the elaborately decorated Delhi Gate, once used by the emperor for ceremonial processions.
A fun part of a visit is exploring Chatta Chowk, a 17th-century covered bazaar selling everything from jewelry to silk garments, as well as souvenirs and food items. While you can explore the fort yourself, guided tours are offered and provide a fascinating insight into the life and times of the Shah, including a peek into the stunning white marble Hall of Public Audiences (Diwan-i-Am) where he received his subjects.
6.Darjeeling
If you are looking for honeymoon destinations, Darjeeling should be in your bucket list. It is famous for the scenic beauty and natural attractions. It is a cliché hill station with stunning view, pleasant climate, hill resorts, sunrise view, little architectural beauty, plantations, tourist activities and others. You ought to try the tea of this place. Do not forget to visit Kanchejunga, third highest peak in the world.
7.Ooty
Ooty is one of the most frequented holiday destinations for tourists from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Given the fact that the southern part of India gets too hot during the summer season, a trip to Ooty offers the much-needed respite from the heat. This picturesque and serene hill station is also a popular honeymoon destination among couples. Ooty offers stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills and lush green landscapes dotted with alpine woods, clear lakes, emerald green tea estates, and colourful blossoms. The hill station also houses the popular Nilgiri Mountain Railway which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
8.Kerala
This is the God’s Own Country. Kerala is also called as the Venice of East because of its enchanting networks of backwaters that make this place one of the top honeymoon destinations and family tourist spots in the country. There are beaches, lagoons, architectural marvels, palaces, temples, forts, churches, hill station and others in this state. Top attractions to enjoy in Kerala are Munnar, Athriapally falls, Thekkady, Varkala beach, Wayanad, Padmanabhaswamy temple and many others.
9.The Ellora Caves, Aurangabad
The famous monumental Ellora Caves were built between the 5th and 10th centuries by Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu monks, and make for an excellent excursion from Mumbai, some 300 kilometers to the west.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable collection of 34 carved monasteries, chapels, and temples – 12 of them Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and five belonging to the Jain faith – were built in close proximity to each other, a reflection of the religious tolerance that existed during this period of Indian history.
Of the Buddhist monastery caves, highlights include a number of shrines featuring carvings of Buddha and saints dating from the 5th to 7th centuries, as well as the stunning Carpenter's Cave, considered one of the finest in India.
The Hindu caves are much more complex and were carved from the top down, so scaffolding was not necessary. Of these, the best is the Kailasa Temple, an enormous rock-cut temple representing Mount Kailasa and requiring the removal of 200,000 tons of rock.
10.Nainital
Flourishing around a volcanic green lake, Nainital is of the famous hill stations and weekend getaway escape destination in India. Do you know that Nainital served as the destination for homesick British to enjoy during their rule in India? This steep-forest region and valley around the lake give a flourish and lush look to your vacation. Apart from natural beauty, the hill town is famous for a webbed culture and lifestyle. Take a walk through the rugged streets of the town, take a horseback ride or, trek to a distant viewpoint to embrace the beauty of the land. Nainital is one of the famous honeymoon destinations, thanks to the Himalayan valley climate, and interesting adventure activities.
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About the Author:
Vipin Kumar