India is a vast and incredibly diverse country with countless destinations for travelers seeking adventure, spirituality, culture, wildlife, beaches, and more. As the 7th largest country in the world by area, and the 2nd most populous country with over 1.3 billion people, India can feel overwhelming to navigate for first-time visitors.
This comprehensive guide covers the top tourist places in India that should be on every traveler’s list. We’ll go over how to plan your India itinerary, tips for traveling in India, and highlight the best experiences at each destination. Read on for your ultimate India travel guide!
How to Plan Your India Itinerary
With so many incredible places to see, planning a trip itinerary is essential. Here are some tips:
- Allocate 2-4 weeks to make the most of your time. India is huge and you’ll need ample time to avoid a rushed trip.
- Identify your main interests – culture, nature, spirituality, beaches etc. This will help narrow down destinations.
- Mix up city and rural destinations for variety.
- Consider the best times to visit: September to March for pleasant weather.
- Book accommodations and trains well in advance during peak seasons.
- Hire local guides where possible for insight into customs.
- Allow for flexibility in case plans need to change.
Top Tourist Destinations in India
Taj Mahal in Agra
No trip to India is complete without visiting the iconic Taj Mahal (meaning “Crown of Palaces”) in Agra. This perfectly symmetrical white marble mausoleum was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-1648 for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Visiting at sunrise to witness the Taj Mahal’s exterior gradually change colors from pink to white is an ethereal experience. The intricate marble inlay work and calligraphy inside the tomb are also remarkable feats of craftsmanship.
Be sure to also spend time exploring Agra Fort just 2 km away, a fascinating 16th century red sandstone fortress where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his own son.
Backwaters of Kerala
The serene backwaters of Kerala in South India are one of the most scenic and peaceful places to visit. Here you can cruise along palm-fringed canals and lagoons, stay in heritage homestays, savor fresh seafood, and observe rural village life along the shores.
The backwater destinations of Alappuzha, Kollam, Kumarakom, and Kottayam offer picturesque networks of canals to explore via kettuvallam (traditional rice barge) boats. Houseboat stays, canoeing, village walks, and Ayurvedic spas are other highlights. Visit between September-March for the best weather.
Rajasthan Deserts & Forts
The colorful state of Rajasthan is famous for its magnificent forts, opulent palaces, vibrant culture, and camel safaris across golden sand dunes. Some top places to experience Rajasthan’s royal and nomadic history include:
- Jaipur: Also called the Pink City, explore sights like Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, and Hawa Mahal.
- Jodhpur: See the imposing 15th century Mehrangarh Fort looming over the Blue City.
- Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer Fort and wandering the golden alleys of this desert city.
- Pushkar: Sacred lake surrounded by ghats and temples, perfect for cultural immersion.
- Bikaner & Jaisalmer: Ride camels across the Thar desert dunes.
Goa Beaches
Goa is India’s most popular beach destination thanks to its glittering coastline dotted with swaying palms, laid-back seaside towns, shacks serving fresh seafood, and luxury resorts. The northern beaches like Baga and Calangute offer lively nightlife, shopping and watersports.
But for more relaxed vibes, head to southern Goan beaches like Palolem, Patnem and Agonda. Also enjoy Goa’s Portuguese-influenced architecture in Old Goa, excellent seafood, and daytrips to Dudhsagar waterfalls. November to March is peak season.
Himalayas for Adventure
India’s northern Himalayan region promises unparalleled mountain scenery, trekking trails, spiritual escapes, and adventures from Manali to Ladakh.
Base yourself in Manali or McLeod Ganj to arrange thrilling activities like mountain climbing, rafting, paragliding and mountain biking with views of snow-capped peaks. For an epic roadtrip, drive from Manali to Leh stopping at remote villages and monasteries.
Or take a train to the Darjeeling Himalayan hill town to stay at a tea estate, visit Tiger Hill for panoramic views, and explore Sikkim.
Varanasi Holy City
As one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, Varanasi is among India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, the city bustles with over 100 ghats where visitors can bathe in the holy river, witness cremations, stroll along the waterfront, and admire riverside temples.
Wandering Varanasi’s maze of narrow alleys lined with shrines and flower garlands provides total immersion into Hindu devotional life. Don’t miss attending the nightly Ganga Aarti ceremony with chanted prayers, fire, and floating lanterns.
Mumbai City Life
As India’s largest city and commercial hub, Mumbai brims with energy reflected in its glitzy Bollywood film industry, art deco architecture, iconic sea link bridge, tasty street food, and lively bazaars.
Top attractions include the Gateway of India overlooking Mumbai Harbour, Victoria Terminus, unique dhobi ghat laundry, posh cafes and restaurants, Marine Drive seaside promenade, and the cave temples of Elephanta Island.
Catch a local train for an authentic Mumbai experience to fully soak up the infectious energy of this buzzing metropolis.
Tips for Visiting India
- Drink only bottled water and avoid raw fruits/veggies outside luxury hotels
- Carry toilet paper/hand sanitizer as facilities are often lacking
- Dress modestly and avoid provocative clothing
- Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars
- Use Uber/Ola apps for safe local transport
- Have small bills for tips, bazaar payments
- Get Indian Rupees from ATMs, avoid money changers
- Carry copies of passport/visas/ID rather than originals
- Leave extra time for trains/flights as delays are common
Start Planning Your Epic India Trip!
We hope this guide has inspired you to start planning an amazing trip to India! The destinations, tips and recommendations above are merely a snapshot of the cultural and geographic diversity India has to offer.
India can be intense and challenging, but immensely rewarding for travelers who immerse themselves and embrace the magic of this captivating country. Let your interests and sense of adventure guide you to create a customized India itinerary.
