• 10 Natural Wonders To Visit In India

Ranthambhore National Park is a must-see destination in India.

India is known as a land of many marvels. It is home to an incredible 1.33 billion people, and as the seventh-largest country in the world by landmass, it is host to the second-largest population on Earth. (China is home to the first). 

But its people are not all that make India fascinating. From massive craters  to stunning lakes and valleys full of flowers, here are ten natural wonders you would not wish to miss when visiting the Land of Mystery.

10. Lonar Crater Lake

Lonar Crater Lake

Located in the Buldhana District of Maharashtra, this emerald green lake is thought to be about 50,000 years old. Made of basalt rock , it was created when a meteor crashed into the Earth and is thought to be the only one of its kind in existence. Today, this destination is a wildlife sanctuary, with a unique ecology.

9. Balancing Rock

Maw Ryngkew Sharatia

Known as Maw Ryngkew Sharatia to locals, this balancing rock can be found on the outskirts of a village in Mawlynnong. It is said to be an ancient shrine of the Khasi tribal people, that was used before the dawn of Christianity in the area. Some say it was the site of sacrifices to ancient deities. 

8. The Valley of Flowers

The Valley of Flowers

This is a stunning national park found in the West Himalayas , in Uttarakhand. Many varieties of flowers grace its floor, and if you are lucky, you may also spot rare animals in the area such as the snow leopard, the Asiatic black deer, and the blue sheep.

7. Ranthambhore National Park

Monkey with her baby on the walls of an ancient fort in the Ranthambhore National Park.

Another national park, this destination offers visitors the chance to see a tiger up close, as well as other wonders. (Hopefully, if you do catch sight of one, it is from the safety of your touring vehicle). 

Situated in Northern India, it can be found near Sawai Madhopur and is a former royal hunting ground, home to intriguing and dangerous creatures.

6. Hogenakkal Falls

Hogenakkal Falls

This stunning group of waterfalls is found in Dharmapuri. It is run by the government and visitors can float through the connecting river on boat tours.

5. Kullu Valley

Kullu Valley

Said to be famous for its temples and majestic hills, Kullu Valley can be found in Himachal Pradesh. It is formed by the Beas River between Manali and Largi and surrounded by pine and deodar forests. A superb place to unwind.

4. Borra Caves

Borra Caves

Also known as Borra Guhalu, this set of natural caves is found along the east coast of India, in Andhra Pradesh. Legends surround the caves which are home to impressive stalactites and sulfur springs.

3. Gandikota Canyon

Gandikota Canyon

The name may remind you of the Grand Canyon in the US, and Gandikota Canyon is rather similar. It is an immense canyon made of massive granite boulders, located in the Pennar River in Andhra Pradesh.

2. Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake

This is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for a series of floating islands found in it called “phumdis”. It is found in  Manipur state, in northeast India.

1. Living Root Bridges

Living Root Bridges

This type of bridge is made from the roots of a living plant, swung into a suspension bridge. You can find many throughout India, in particular in the Northeastern state of Meghalaya.

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in India for Nature Lovers

Valley of flowers Uttarakhand trek

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Though India’s natural beauty is often overshadowed by her architecture , history and culture , the real gem of the subcontinent is arguably her remarkable array of flora and fauna. It’s a little known fact, but India is home to a whopping 7% of the world’s biodiversity!

Few places in the world offer the broad range of wildlife viewing opportunities that India does, from legendary megafauna such as the Bengal Tiger and Asian Elephant to the equally delightful 1300+ bird species that call the country home.

India is also home to an ever-changing landscape that veers from  deserts  and wild grasslands to the Himalayan foothills and tropical jungles. Jungles and forests cover over 20% of the country.

If you’re a nature lover, India is arguably one of the top destinations in the world. But choosing the right spot to start can be a little overwhelming. The country is, after all, a sub-continent, and planning a trip to India can take a little time. 

You can travel independently to India’s national parks and tiger reserves, although some are harder to reach by public transport than others.

But there are also many different  group tours of India that include a visit to one or more of these parks. There also companies that can help you get an Indian e-Visa online, before you arrive in the country. 

Here’s an overview of some of the best places to visit in India for nature and wildlife.

READ MORE:   Indian Animals: A Guide to 40 Incredible Indian Wildlife Species

On a wildlife safari in Kerala

When is the Best Time to Visit India?

Weather-wise, the best time to visit India is in the winter, between the end of October and the end of February.

This is the most pleasant time of year to take a wildlife safari. However your chances of spotting animals are statistically better during March, April, and May, when they tend to gather around watering holes.

If you can handle the extreme heat during these month, you’ll also benefit from fewer visitors and better deals on accommodation as well. But weather in India from March through May can get extremely hot.

It sometimes reaches 50º Celsius/122º Fahrenheit in Rajasthan before the monsoon rains begin, starting some time in June and lasting until October. But the seasons and weather patterns are becoming more unpredictable recently due to climate change .

One exception to this is the mountainous region of Ladakh , which is covered with snow for much of the year and is open for trekking between June and September (there are some lower trekking routes that open in May).

Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalayan foothills, is best visited between March and May as a cool retreat from the hot, dusty plains.

November through February is also high tourism season here. So if you’re traveling to India during these months, try to make your travel arrangements and bookings well in advance. 

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Beautiful places in India -Sathodi Falls

The Best Places to Visit in India for Nature Lovers

A great place to start is India’s national parks and Tiger reserves, which are some of the most beautiful places in India. 

Many of these India attractions are called national parks or Tiger reserves interchangeably. So we’ve put the ones that are especially known for seeing Tigers under the Tiger reserve section.

But rest assured that those parks are home to plenty of other wildlife, too.

Map of National Parks & Tiger Reserves in India

National Parks are marked in Green, Tiger Reserves in Orange.

List of National Parks & Tiger Reserves in India

Jim corbett national park (uttarakhand), kaziranga national park (assam), nagarhole national park (karnataka), sundarbans national park (west bengal), valley of flowers national park (uttarakhand), mudumalai national park (tamil nadu), satpura national park (madhya pradesh), gir national park (gujarat), sanjay gandhi national park (mumbai, maharashtra).

  • Periyar National Park (Kerala) 

Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Karnataka)

  • Bandhavgarh (Madhya Pradesh)  
  • Kanha (Madhya Pradesh)
  • Pench (Madhya Pradesh / Maharashtra)
  • Ranthambore (Rajasthan)
  • Sariska (Rajasthan)

National Parks in India

a bengal tiger at Corbett

Originally established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, Jim Corbett National Park forms part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, although the names are often used interchangeably.

Set in the region of Naintal, Uttarakhand, Corbett is India’s oldest national park, as well as its most prestigious. It is naturally one of the most sought-after destinations in India for animal enthusiasts, with over 650 species of wildlife recorded there. 

Corbett can be explored by Jeep safari, and is also one of the few parks in India that allows visitors to overnight within the park boundaries (in the government-run Dhikala Forest Eco Lodge ).

Corbett National Park was the launching ground for the original Project Tiger, a wildlife conservation program  launched in 1973.

Some of Corbett’s zones are open all year round, and spring is a popular time to visit, with temperatures lower than you’ll encounter across India’s plains.

READ MORE: Top 10 Things To Do in Agra, India (For Nature & History Lovers)

Wildife safari Kaziranga national park

Established in 1908, Kaziranga is one of the top national parks in Eastern India, famed for its Indian Rhinoceros population.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is thought to be home to two-thirds of the world’s Greater One-horned Rhino population. It was also declared a Tiger reserve in 2006, and is currently home to one of the highest densities of Bengal Tigers within a protected area. 

Kaziranga’s topography is unique and spans the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River , grasslands, forest, and wetlands .

During some monsoons, Kaziranga has seen extensive flooding, including a major one in 2019. It caused devastation for much of the park’s wildlife, which tried to flee in order to reach higher grounds. 

Kaziranga has traditionally been explored on Elephant back (which is not considered responsible travel ) due to its tall grasses and lack of roads. But these days Jeep safaris are also possible.

The best time to visit Kaziranga is between November and May. Note that the park closes between July and October each year in case of flood warnings. 

READ MORE: 15 Harmful Traditions & Cultural Practices Tourists Shouldn’t Support

Best Places to visit in India for Nature Lovers - Nagarhole National Park

With fewer visitors venturing to southwest India, Nagarhole (which is also written as Nagahole) is something of a hidden ecotourism gem.

The name originally comes  nagarahole, meaning “cobra river” in Kannada, the local language. But don’t worry: The name is in reference to the number of curving streams, rivers , and waterfalls that fill the park than the fearsome reptiles themselves. 

Nagarhole is a beautiful place that’s widely recognized as one of the best national parks in India. It adjoins the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

Nagarhole is a sanctuary for Asian Elephants, Leopards, Tigers, Black Panthers, Dholes , S loth Bears, Crocodiles, and many other creatures, including wide insect biodiversity. 

Nagarhole is most easily accessed from northern Kerala or from Mysore in Karnataka. The best time to visit is between October and May, because the park often closes during the monsoon season. 

READ MORE:   10 Off The Beaten Path Ecotourism Destinations

Deer in the Sundarbans National Park

Spanning eastern India and into Bangladesh, the Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest . It’s also one of the few places in the world where you have a chance of seeing swimming Tigers!

Most of the impressive population growth seen in the 2019 Tiger census (which happily saw a 33% increase in Bengal Tigers in India ) was in the Indian Sundarbans. 

The Sundarbans were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and are not only important as a Tiger reserve, but they’re integral to the protection of the entire delta region.

Despite the healthy population here, Tiger sightings are rare, as most of them choose to retreat to the inaccessible interiors of the mangrove systems.

Although there have been rare occasions where Tigers have attacked humans in local villages as human populations increasingly encroach on their territory, the animals are generally fairly timid. 

Going on a safari in the Sundarbans is unique in that you travel by boat. Given the high humidity, the best time to take a trip to the region is during the winter months (November through February), when early morning mists add to the atmospheric experience.

Safaris do not run at all during summer, which is monsoon season. 

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Every time monsoon season arrives (usually around June), the Valley of the Flowers near Chamoli in Uttarakhand comes to life.

Its vibrant, bursting displays of color are a wonderful reward for those travelers willing to make the effort required in getting there. 

The starting point for the trek to reach the Valley of Flowers is from Joshimath, which is accessible by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun. From Joshimath, Pulna village can be reached by road in about one hour.

From the village, it’s a 16-kilometer trek to the “base camp” of Ghangaria. From there, it’s an additional 3 kilometers to the beginning of the main valley, where the flowers are. 

There are both government-run and private tours to the Valley of the Flowers. Or, if you are traveling in India independently, we recommend hiring a local guide for the trek. 

READ MORE: The Flowers of Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Places to travel in india to see Wildlife - Mudumalai National Park

Mudumalai National Park is located in the northwestern corner of Tamil Nadu, which borders the states of Kerala and Karnataka.

This protected area is home to Asian Elephants, Tigers, Guar, and Leopards , as well as over 266 species of birds (which represents 8% of the different bird species in India). 

Mudumalai is part of the same biosphere area as Nagarhole, the Nilgiri Biosphere reserve. The best time to visit Mudumalai is between March and June or September and October. 

READ MORE: 40 Fascinating Facts About Snow Leopards

Where to visit in India to see Animals -Satpura National Park

Although this national park is also referred to as Satpura Tiger Reserve, the chances of seeing a Tiger here are relatively low, especially compared to some of the other Madhya Pradesh reserves.

The park is better known for other wildlife species, such as Sambar Deer, Antelope, Chinkara, Indian Leopard, and the weird-looking  Indian Giant Squirrel ! Satpura is also home to 1300 species of plants.

So if you’re not 100% focused on seeing a Tiger, Satpura National Park can be a great option to visit in north India, with fewer visitors than some of the neighboring parks. 

Satpura Tiger Reserve is important from an archaeological perspective, too. There are more than 50 Rock Shelters here that have ancient paintings depicting various animals, including Elephants, Tigers, Deer, and Porcupines. These paintings are estimated to be 1,500 to 10,000 years old.

The best time to visit Satpura is between November and May.

READ MORE: 60 Weird Animals Around the World 

Asiatic Lions in India

Located away from the main North India tourist trail, Gir is enough reason to make a diversion to Gujarat. This national park is the only home in India of the Asiatic Lion.

Sasan Gir (as it is also known) is located in southwestern Gujarat, in the Junagadh region, and is home to upwards of 500 Lions. 

Hunting  brought the Asiatic Lion to the brink of extinction in the mid 20th century, before conservationists stepped in in the ’60s to protect the dwindling population. In recent censuses, the number of Lions in the park has been climbing steadily. 

The rangers in Gir National Park are just as famous as its Lions: This is the first park in India to have female forest rangers. 

The park is open from November to June each year and closes during monsoon season. Check the Gujarat Tourism website in advance for exact dates. 

READ MORE: The Connection Between Walking With Lions & Canned Lion Hunting

Top places to visit in india to see wildlife - Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Encircled by Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi is the only national park in India that’s located within a city.

But that doesn’t mean it’s small: Sanjay Gandhi National Park covers 87 square kilometres, jostling for space alongside some of India’s most expensive real estate. 

Largely bordering the northern areas of the mega-city, this Mumbai park is home to many species of endangered flora and fauna.

Animals that call the national park home include Leopard, Spotted Deer, and Hanuman Langur Monkeys. Leopards are known to wander into neighboring areas of metropolitan Mumbai and Thane city under the cover of darkness. 

This is one of the most-visited national parks in India: It’s popular with rock climbers, hikers , and those who want to visit the well-known Kanheri caves .

Winter temperatures are quite cool here, providing relief from the often-humid air of Mumbai. The park is open all year-round. 

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Best places in India for nature lovers

Periyar National Park (Kerala)

Set in the Western Ghats (hills) of Kerala, Periyar is one of the most popular national parks in South India to visit.

Although its wildlife offerings are less spectacular than most of the other parks featured here, many visitors come for the dramatic scenery.

Don’t miss the boat trip across Periyar Lake, which offers the chance to watch wildlife from the water. During our time in the park we were lucky enough to see Elephants along the banks of the lake . 

Fair warning: The boat trip is far from serene, and can be quite a crowded affair. Even India guidebooks warn that the experience can be awfully Disneyland-esque.

For those visitors seeking some peace and tranquility, there are alternative options for rafting on the Periyar Lake. It’s also one of the last Indian parks you can actually walk into, which makes for a great opportunity to observe the flora and fauna with a naturalist. 

The best time to visit Periyar is November through May. 

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Tiger Reserves in India

By far your best chances of seeing a Tiger in India are at the Tiger reserves, some of which now have booming, high-density populations!

The best time of year to see a Tiger is in the height of summer, from March through May, when they tend to gather around watering holes in the parks.

However, be aware that this is the hottest time of year in India. Many people choose to visit in November through February, which offers more comfortable weather, but slightly lower chances of Tiger sightings. 

We personally recommend taking Jeep safaris over Cantor safaris (which have up to 16 seats and are more bus-like) for a more intimate experience, with fewer elbows jostling for photos. And remember, it’s more about savoring the wonder of being in nature than just seeing a Tiger. 

READ MORE: Animal Selfies: The Problem With Putting Ego Over Responsibility

Holiday destinations in India to see Tigers -Bandipur Tiger Reserve

Adjoining neighboring Nagarhole, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve boasts the second highest density of Tigers in India. So it’s an excellent place to look for Tigers!

Bandipur was established in 1974 under Project Tiger , and was once the private hunting reserve of the Maharaja of Mysore. 

In addition to its big cats, Bandipur supports a sizable population of endangered and vulnerable species such as Indian Elephants, Gaurs, Sloth Bears, Muggers, Indian Rock Pythons, Four-horned Antelopes, Jackals, and Dholes (a.k.a. Indian wild dogs).

The best way to see Tigers in the park is on a Jeep safari . 

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Places to travel in India to see Tigers - Bandhavgarh national park India

Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh)

You don’t have a better chance of seeing a Tiger anywhere in India than you do at Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh.

Spanning some 105 square kilometers, Bandhavgarh has the happy problem of trying to find more space for its Tigers. These massive cats require large territories to hunt, and the population has grown here considerably in recent years. 

Get up early for a morning Jeep safari for your best chances of seeing a Tiger here. Sightings aren’t guaranteed, but with a bit of luck (and keeping quiet) you’ll get a great Tiger sighting, like we did! 

Bandhavgarh is home to many eco-friendly lodges, in particular the Tree House Hideaway .

READ MORE: How Zoos Help Conserve Endangered Species

Famous tourist places in India - Kanha Tiger Reserve

Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh)

The largest national park in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha is divided into two sanctuary areas– Hallon and Banjar– which respectively encompass 250 and 300 square kilometers.

But more worthy of note is Kanha’s true claim to fame. The park is thought to be the original “jungle” from Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book .  If you’re intent on living out your own Mowgli fantasy, Kanha would seem like the natural place to start. 

So perhaps it’s no surprise that Kanha National Park gets busy and books up quickly. If you’re planning on visiting Kanha, we recommend booking your accommodation and safaris several months in advance. Many of the area’s lodges can help with booking your safaris directly. 

The park is open from mid-October to June each year, and then closes for monsoon season. November through February are the busiest times to visit. 

READ MORE: 10 Travel Books That Inspired My Love of Adventure

Places to go in India to see Tigers -Pench Tiger Reserve

Pench National Park (Madhya Pradesh / Maharashtra)

Located on the border of southern Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park is a lesser-known alternative to the big-hitters of Bandhavgarh and Kanha.

Made up mostly of teak trees, Pench has a very different feel from the more popular parks. There are fewer tourists and Tigers, providing nature lovers with that feeling of serene solitude so many crave. 

Pench’s sprawling 1900 square kilometers is 60% in Madhya Pradesh and the remainder in Maharashtra. Located on the Jbalpur to Nagpur highway, the Turia Gate is relatively easy to reach, and the park is most frequently accessed from here. 

Pench National Park is the perfect place to forget the goal of “seeing a Tiger” and appreciate India’s national parks for what they are: Invaluable havens of peace, tranquility, and biodiversity.

As with the other parks in Madhya Pradesh, Pench is closed from June through mid-October.

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Tourist places in India - Ranthambore safari

Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan)

The most visited Tiger reserve in India is not without its vocal critics.

Recent complaints of overtourism and land loss to the overdevelopment of resorts here have made headlines. But that negative press doesn’t seem to have had much impact on visitor numbers. People still seem as keen as ever to catch sight of a Tiger here. 

Located south of Jaipur and within easy reach of Agra and Delhi, Ranthambore is one of the top tourist attractions in Rajasthan . 

It’s Ranthambore’s location that makes it so popular: It’s an easy stop for anyone on a Golden Triangle tour . It’s also unique for the ancient ruins dotted around the park, making a captivating backdrop for Tiger viewings (which are relatively frequent). 

If you do have time to go elsewhere to see Tigers in India, you may enjoy it more. We also recommend avoiding the large canters and busses , which can be noisy, in favor of a Jeep safari if you can.

Most of Ranthambore closes between July and October 1st due to the monsoon, however the buffer zone stays open all year round. 

READ MORE:   Ranthambore National Park – On the Trail of Tigers in India

Tourist places in India that need more tourists - Sariska Tiger Reserve

Sariska National Park (Rajasthan)

Located to the northwest of Jaipur and far larger than the more famous Ranthambore, Sariska National Park is best known for the scandal that unfolded there.

In the ’90s and early 2000s, all of the park’s Tigers somehow disappeared! It was suspected that they were taken by poachers. By 2004, Sariska was completely tigerless.

The park administration tried to cover it up for a long time. But after years went by without a single Tiger being seen, eventually detectives were brought in to solve the mystery. 

In subsequent years, the park’s corruption was cleaned up, and Tigers were eventually reintroduced to Sariska from Ranthambore from 2008.

In 2019, there are still only 15 Tigers left in the park, with only one lone male. This is causing great concern to conservationists as a further barrier to protecting the delicate population there.

According to local sources, the problem is twofold. The first is a lack of investment into tourism in Sariska. The second issue is the presence of villagers within the wildlife reserve itself. 

Staying in resorts like the Sariska Retreat and the  Sterling Sariska  does help, and having tourists take more safaris and guided trips could provide an economic incentive for the Tigers’ protection. 

So we’re recommending visiting Sariska National Park as a chance to make a genuine difference with your money. The more international visitors travel to Sariska, the more interest the government and tourism business will have in protecting the park in the future.  – Ellie Cleary

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Ellie & Ravi write about travel to India and around the world on their website,  Soul Travel Blog , with a focus on experiences for the conscious traveller. 

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The Most Beautiful Places for Nature Lovers in India

A man who was heading towards his farm captured in between beautiful landscape in Nagaland, Northeast India

India Writer

The geographic terrain of India is rich and diverse, filled with lush green forests, scenic lakes, majestic mountain peaks, mosaics of grasslands, tropical beaches, and vast stretches of wilderness. From east to west, north to south, this South Asian country packs an assortment of treasures for nature lovers. Here is a rundown of some of the most beautiful places where you can be at one with nature.

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Want to visit some of the locations we’ve picked out in our list? We’ve got two adventure filled trips to India you won’t want to miss. Join our small-group premium trips and see the best the country has to offer.

Coorg, Karnataka

Famously known as the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg is a tiny hill station located in Southern Karnataka in the lap of Western Ghats. This place is irresistible with its lush coffee plantations, stunning landscapes, quaint villages, refreshing weather, cascading waterfalls , like Abbey and Iruppu falls, and a diversity of flora and fauna at Nagarhole National Park and Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a perfect place if you’re looking to escape the monotony of daily life and get close to nature.

india natural tourist attractions

Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Commonly known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar sits at over 1981 meters (6500 feet) and is synonymous with picturesque beauty. Dense forest, swathes of green meadows and beautiful snow-capped mountain vistas make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can partake of adventure activities, like zorbing, trekking, paragliding and horse-riding, and the must-visit sites include the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary that is home to exotic flora and fauna, Khajji Naga Temple that dates back to the 12th century, and the Khajjiar Lake set at 1920 meters and encircled by hills, grasslands and deodar forests.

Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand

Located in the eastern district of Uttarakhand, Pithoragarh boasts of irresistible natural beauty, high altitude grasslands and historic charm. It is the starting point for treks to the holy shrines of Kailash and Mansarovar. And, the panoramic views of the mighty peaks of Nanda Devi, Appi of Nepal and Panchachuli are clearly visible from this place. Some of the tourist spots include the Pithoragarh Fort, Askot Sanctuary that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, and Kafni Glacier Trek, among many others. And, visitors can also indulge in adventure activities, like hiking, skiing, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. This tiny place is an ideal place for those looking for a nature retreat.

Kaas Plateau, Maharashtra

Another ethereal beauty is the Kaas Plateau, which is a UNESCO World Biodiversity Site. It attracts visitors with more than 850 different and unique species of flowering plants. When these flowering plants are in full bloom in the months of August-September, its beauty is incomparable. Being relatively undiscovered, you can experience this beauty in utmost serenity and breathe in the fresh, unpolluted air.

Munnar, Kerala

Spend some “me” time in nature’s lap in Munnar , a hill station famous for its tea and spice plantations. Camping, parasailing, birdwatching, trekking, wildlife spotting, fishing, boating and rock climbing are the popular activities here. Some of the must-visit attractions include Echo Point, and Kundala Lake where you can enjoy boating and shikara rides amidst the natural beauty and views of rolling hills; Devikulum is home to an assortment of temples, Attakud waterfall and Anamudi Peak, among many others. For tea lovers, there’s a Tata Tea Museum where you can learn about the history of tea and its processing.

Head to Regal Rajasthan on an epic cross-country adventure with Culture Trip. Our Local Insider will guide you through bustling cities, rural villages and jaw-dropping palaces on this unforgettable 10-day trip.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

Nestled in the Nanda Devi Biosphere, the Valley of Flowers is the most attractive place in Uttarakhand. Every inch of this place is blessed with unparalleled natural beauty in the form of endemic alpine flowers and diversity of flora, including medicinal herbs. Besides, it is also home to a variety of endangered species of animals, including the snow leopard, Asiatic black bear, blue sheep and musk deer, to name a few. Also, there are a host of gushing waterfalls and streams in this scenic valley. You need to trek to this beautiful valley, so be aware that July to September is the only time when trekking is allowed here.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Sitting amid the Shivalik hills, Chail is a peaceful and secluded hill station that once served as a summer retreat for the Maharaja of Patiala. Surrounded by deodar and pine forests and replete with spectacular views of the mountains, this place is a delight for nature lovers and photographers. A visit to Sadhupul lake, Chail Palace, Kali temple and the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is a must when in Chail.

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Unscathed by modern civilization, the Ziro in north-eastern India is blessed with abundant natural beauty. Vast expanses of paddy fields, rolling green hills with abundant flora, quaint villages and its virgin beauty attract many nature lovers. Besides, this place is also a treat for adventure seekers, trekkers and wildlife explorers. Some of the must-visit attractions include Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary that is home to a variety of exotic flora and fauna, Kile Pakho where you can soak in the natural beauty, and Dolo Mando and Midey are trekkers’ paradise.

Araku, Andhra Pradesh

The vast grasslands, rose gardens of varying hues, coffee fields, fruit-laden orchards, gushing waterfalls, and the diversity of flora and fauna mean Araku Valley is a spot with prolific scenic beauty. The famous attractions here include coffee plantations, Padmapuram botanical garden, a Tribal museum that features tribal lifestyle and handicrafts, and waterfalls, like Sangda falls, Dumbriguda falls and Katiki falls. Also, the natural Borra Caves situated near the valley are a must visit.

Dzukou Valley, Nagaland

Sandwiched between north-eastern states of Manipur and Nagaland, Dzukou Valley is home to lush green forest, mosaic of grasslands, flowers of varying hues, and an abundance of flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot to spend some time in the lap of Mother Nature. The Japfu hills add to the splendour of the place and make it is a perfect spot for trekking. If you’re not up for trekking, take a stroll among the ubiquitous flowers. This is home to a variety of flowers, including the rare and unique Dzükou lily, multi-colored rhododendrons and aconitum. The best time to visit is October to May. To reach the valley, you need to trek either from Zakhama village or Visvema village. Indian visitors need an inner line permit for Nagaland and foreign visitors must register themselves at the local state government office in Kohima or Dimapur, Nagaland.

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Unveiling Natural Wonders: The Best Nature Places in India to Explore

  • Hill Stations

The connection between nature and the human mind creates memorable moments. These moments are filled with visions of meadows, trees, rivers, backdrops, and hills.

Unleash your inner nature lover and explore the incredible beauty of the Indian landscape. These treasure troves answer questions we haven’t even thought of yet.

Some of the best nature places in India include:

Coorg, karnataka.

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Coorg, known as the ‘Scotland of India’, is a hill station in Southern Karnataka. It is famous for its lush coffee plantations, breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and pleasant weather. The region has several stunning waterfalls, including Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the diverse flora and fauna at Nagarhole National Park and Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary.

Coorg is an ideal destination for those looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you want to relax amidst the serene coffee plantations, embark on a trekking adventure, or spot wildlife in its natural habitat, Coorg has something to offer everyone.

Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

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Khajjiar is a popular destination in India known for its beautiful landscapes, including dense forests, green meadows, and snow-capped mountains. Visitors can enjoy various adventure activities like zorbing, trekking, paragliding, and horse riding. The area is also home to attractions such as the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Khajji Naga Temple, and Khajjiar Lake, surrounded by hills, grasslands, and deodar forests.

Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand

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Pithoragarh is in Uttarakhand, known for its natural beauty and historic charm. It is the starting point for treks to Kailash and Mansarovar. You can see the mighty peaks of Nanda Devi, Appi of Nepal, and Panchachuli. Tourist spots include Pithoragarh Fort, Askot Sanctuary, and Kafni Glacier Trek. This nature retreat also offers adventure activities such as hiking, skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It provides the perfect opportunity for travellers to engage in outdoor adventures and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Kaas Plateau, Maharashtra

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The Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Biodiversity Site famous for its breathtaking beauty. Kaas Plateau is one of the most beautiful nature places in India. It is home to over 850 species of flowering plants, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The plateau is especially captivating when these flowers are in full bloom, which typically occurs in the months of August-September. The sight of the colourful flowers is incomparable and offers a serene and peaceful experience. Additionally, the air in the area is fresh and unpolluted, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the plateau fully.

Munnar, Kerala

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Munnar is a hill station in South India that is famous for its tea and spice plantations. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Munnar, such as camping, parasailing, birdwatching, trekking, wildlife spotting, fishing, boating, and rock climbing. 

Two popular attractions in Munnar are Echo Point and Kundala Lake. At Echo Point, you can enjoy the natural beauty of rolling hills and even hear your own voice echo. Kundala Lake offers boating opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

In the nearby town of Devikulum, you can explore temples, visit the Attukad Waterfall, and hike up the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. 

A visit to the Tata Tea Museum is a must for tea enthusiasts. Here, you can learn about the history and processing of tea and even sample different tea varieties. 

Overall, Munnar offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

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The Valley of Flowers is a stunning natural wonder in the Nanda Devi Biosphere in Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned for its unparalleled beauty, featuring various alpine flowers and diverse flora, including medicinal herbs. This valley is also a sanctuary for endangered species such as the snow leopard, Asiatic black bear, blue sheep, and musk deer. Furthermore, the area boasts numerous waterfalls and streams, adding to its scenic charm. It’s important to note that trekking in the Valley of Flowers is restricted from July to September.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh

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Chail is a serene and secluded hill station nestled in the Shivalik hills. It was originally a summer getaway for the Maharaja of Patiala. The town is surrounded by beautiful deodar and pine forests, offering breathtaking views of the mountains. For nature enthusiasts and photographers, Chail is a paradise.

When visiting Chail, make sure to explore Sadhupul Lake, which is a popular tourist spot. The Chail Palace is also worth a visit, as it showcases the rich history and architecture of the region. Another must-see attraction is the Kali temple, known for its religious significance and stunning views. Don’t forget to explore the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various flora and fauna.

Overall, Chail offers a peaceful and picturesque experience for those seeking solace in the lap of nature.

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

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The Ziro region in northeastern India is known for its untouched natural beauty. It is characterized by vast paddy fields, picturesque green hills with diverse flora, charming villages, and its unspoiled environment, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Adventure seekers, trekkers, and wildlife explorers are also drawn to this region. Some of the must-visit attractions in Ziro include the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a wide range of exotic plants and animals; Kile Pakho, where visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings; and Dolo Mando and Midey, which are ideal for trekkers looking for a thrilling experience.

Araku, Andhra Pradesh

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Araku Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast grasslands, rose gardens, coffee fields, fruit orchards, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Popular attractions in the area include coffee plantations, Padmapuram botanical garden, a Tribal museum showcasing tribal lifestyle and handicrafts, and nearby Borra Caves.

Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

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Yumthang Valley is an awe-inspiring nature place in India. The river and millions of flowers create a tranquil vibe. The breathtaking vistas of mountains will leave you breathless. It is one of India’s best places for photography, offering jaw-dropping backdrops. The valley is located in Sikkim. The best time to visit is between February and March to capture the best view.

Nubra Valley, Ladakh

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Nubra Valley in Ladakh is known as the Valley of Flowers and is located in the northeastern part of Ladakh Valley. It offers stunning views of snow-covered mountain ranges, Bactrian camels, and expansive orchards. It is considered one of the best natural places in India and has attractions such as Klosters, dunes, and an abandoned palace. Visitors to Nubra Valley can enjoy the beauty of nature, go on camel safaris, take in the panoramic view of Panamik village, and visit the Samstanling Monastery. Travelling to Nubra Valley is a truly unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit Nubra Valley is between June and August, when the weather is most enjoyable and the valley is at its most beautiful. Don’t forget to bring a camera with you as plenty of stunning sights can be captured in the valley.

Dudhsagar Falls, Goa

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Dudhsagar Falls in Goa is a must-visit for waterfall enthusiasts. Located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, this four-tiered waterfall is a stunning display of nature’s beauty. Hikers and trekkers often consider it a favourite destination, but getting there requires some skill. The falls are surrounded by deciduous green forests, creating a haven for wildlife spotting.

The optimal time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is from mid-November to mid-February.

Loktak Lake, Manipur

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Loktak Lake is one of the largest lakes in northeastern India. It is known for its serene vibe. Located in Manipur, it is considered one of the best natural places in India. This lake is unique because it is the only floating lake in the world. It is also the largest freshwater lake in India. The lake is famous for its floating Phumdis, which showcases nature’s abundance and uniqueness.

The optimal time to visit Loktak Lake is from November to May when you can fully appreciate its undeniable beauty.

Lonar Lake, Maharashtra

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Lonar Lake, also known as Lonar Crater, is located in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra. It is the oldest meteoric crater in the world and the largest basaltic rock crater, with an average depth of 148 meters and a length of almost 1832 meters. It is considered one of India’s most scenic natural tourist destinations, and the lake’s unique ecosystem is truly remarkable.

The optimal time to visit Lonar Lake in India is November to January.

Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

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Snow-clad mountains and glaciers surround the Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim. It offers breathtaking views and has sparkling and icy water with curative properties. The lake is named after Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. It is considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. Gurudongmar Lake is a less explored attraction in Sikkim. It offers a combination of religious aspects, scenic beauty, and enduring treks. The lake sits at an altitude of 5425 m near the Tibetan border.

The recommended time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is from November to June.

Dzukou Valley, Manipur–Nagaland border

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20 Best Places to Visit in India

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 30, 2022

Deeply traditional yet endlessly surprising, India is one of those destinations that ends up on every traveler's bucket list at some point. They might dream of going to Agra to see the Taj Mahal in all its glory, or exploring the royal palaces scattered throughout Rajasthan. Others find themselves attracted to the jaw-dropping landscapes in Darjeeling and Rishikesh , or the postcard-perfect beaches in Goa.

There's also India's big cities– New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata –each of which has its own distinctive personality. It's impossible to get bored exploring the temples, markets, and colorful streets of India's biggest urban centers. The hardest part of traveling to India is figuring out exactly what to see on your journey.

Whether you're going on an epic backpacking trip or a luxe vacation, plan your adventure with this list of the best places to visit in India.

2. New Delhi

4. rajasthan, 5. rishikesh, 6. varanasi, 7. amritsar, 10. ajanta and ellora caves, 11. darjeeling, 12. kolkata, 13. ahmedabad, 19. andaman islands, 20. mcleod ganj, map of places to visit in india.

Taj Mahal in Agra

If there was just one symbol to represent all of India, it would be the Taj Mahal . The monument inspires millions of tourists to make the trip to Agra every year, waking up before dawn to see magnificent structure radiate at sunrise. But Agra tops the list of the best places to visit in India for reasons that go beyond India's most famous attraction.

The city in Uttar Pradesh is chock-full of marvelous Mughal monuments , like Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and Akbar's Mausoleum , decked out in hypnotic inlaid marble designs from top to bottom. Plus, tourists can also see another UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Agra Fort. With so many wonders in just one place, Agra is a must-visit city for tourists in India.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Humayun's Tomb

Despite its crowds and chaos, New Delhi offers tourists a lot to love. The colorful capital of India is the perfect marriage of heritage and modernity. Old Delhi contains some of the country's most treasured attractions, including the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Chandni Chowk shopping thoroughfare. But throughout the sprawling city, tourists can explore countless other sites of spiritual and cultural importance.

Top tourist attractions in New Delhi include the Lotus Temple; India Gate; Humayun's Tomb; and India's tallest minaret, Qutub Minar. Fill your days exploring these mesmerizing sites, and refueling at street-side chai stalls and high-end restaurants.

The Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai

Want to see a more cosmopolitan side of India? Head to the energetic, coastal city of Mumbai–home to ultra-wealthy entrepreneurs and the hottest Bollywood actors. Tourists are never far from five-star hotels or gourmet restaurants in this luxe city. And even if those activities are out of budget, a cruise down the beloved Marine Drive will make you feel like royalty as you catch a glimpse of the scenic coast and glamorous Art Deco buildings.

You can also see a more authentic, local side of Mumbai in the bustling "Thieves Market" or at the Churchgate railway station , where hundreds of thousands of homemade lunches are packed up for delivery to the city's office workers every day.

Make sure you devote a day to checking out Sanjay Gandhi National Park and exploring the 2,000-year-old Kanheri Cave carvings.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Gadi Sagar Temple in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Translated to "Land of Kings," Rajasthan brims with remnants of the kings and queens of past centuries. Between its glittering palaces , stately forts, and lively festivals, this western state deserves a starring role in your trip to India.

Jaipur , part of the Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit, which also includes Agra and New Delhi, is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. Dubbed "The Paris of India," it's known for its characteristic pink buildings, lavish City Palace, and jewelry stores galore.

The "Blue City," Jodhpur , offers tourists an equally unforgettable experience in its hilltop Mehrangarh Fort .

Udaipur oozes romance with its flower-lined streets and fantastic City Palace Complex , where the royal family still lives today.

And Jaisalmer looks like an Arabian Nights fairy tale brought to life, with its yellow sandstone structures and historic havelis (mansions). No matter where you end up in this desert state, you'll be captivated by the magic of Rajasthan.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Rishikesh

Rishikesh has been on the radar for spiritually minded travelers since the late 1960s, when the Beatles spent time in Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram –now an abandoned site that has become an off-the-beaten-path tourist attraction for fans.

The town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the holy Ganges River, and serves as a center for yoga and pilgrimages . Take part in the action, or just enjoy the sounds of the temple bells and sightseeing from Rishikesh's two suspension bridges , often guarded by assertive families of monkeys. Keep your distance.

A holy person on the Ganges River in Varanasi

One of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is arguably the holiest place in India. The spiritual activities take place along the sacred Ganges River, where pilgrims bathe and mourners cremate recently deceased relatives in plain view of passersby.

Tourists, on the other hand, find their own flavor of spiritualism taking sunrise boat rides, releasing floral blessings that float on the river, and watching the fire-filled Hindu chanting ceremonies from the steep ghats.

Away from the water, the streets of the old town twist and turn like an endless maze. Legend has it that there's still no accurate map of Varanasi, and once you experience the labyrinthine city for yourself, you'll be inclined to believe it.

The Golden Temple in Amritsar

Amritsar, the "Jewel of Punjab," has made its claim to fame with its remarkable Golden Temple . One of the holiest places in the world for Sikhs, the gilded structure is a sight to behold, glistening in the sun and reflecting into the large pool that surrounds it.

The attraction also boasts the world's largest community kitchen , which serves 100,000 diners (including curious tourists!) lentils and curries every day.

While in Amritsar, plan to spend an afternoon at the border of Pakistan to see the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Goose-stepping guards from long-term rivals India and Pakistan open and close the border gates at dusk in an over-the-top ceremony you'll never forget. Get there early to dance to blaring Bollywood music with locals in the streets.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Amritsar

Palolem Beach, South Goa

India's not just full of big cities and holy sites–it also has incredible beaches down south in Goa. Its stretches of golden sand along the Arabian Sea offer something for every type of tourist, whether you're interested in hanging out with the backpacker crowd in laid-back beach huts or having a ritzy tropical getaway at a five-star resort.

One unique part of Goa is its blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. You'll experience the fusion throughout the destination, from its Baroque architecture and cathedrals to its spicy vindaloo curries and seafood dishes.

Houseboat in Kerala

Head south of Goa, and you'll trade beaches for tranquil backwaters in Kerala. Nothing beats the experience of hopping aboard a traditional thatched-top houseboat in Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha ) and slowly floating through palm-fringed lagoons and rivers, either as a day trip or overnight adventure. You'll enjoy freshly cooked Indian cuisine on the water and breathtakingly beautiful natural sights and wildlife.

Easygoing Kerala is like a breath of fresh air from the intensity of cities like New Delhi and Jaipur up north. Schedule some time here when you're in need of a break from the chaos.

Kailasa Temple, Ellora Caves

Time travel isn't a reality for travelers quite yet, but you can get pretty close at the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra. Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the caves feature intricate carvings from at least 1,500 years ago.

The Ajanta Caves are the oldest of the two attractions, featuring around 30 Buddhist cave monuments cut into the rock as far back as the 2nd century BC.

Around 100 kilometers southwest, the Ellora Caves contain nearly three dozen Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu carvings, the most famous of which is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a massive structure devoted to Lord Shiva that features life-size elephant sculptures . The magnificent carvings at both sites will leave you filled with wonder.

Darjeeling with snow-capped Khangchendzonga Mountain in the distance

Sightseeing in India doesn't get much better than what you'll discover in Darjeeling. The hill station in West Bengal is beloved for its lush green tea plantations , awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks (including Khangchendzonga , the world's third-highest mountain), and serene Buddhist monasteries. This is the perfect place to arrange a mountain trek or mountain biking adventure.

One of the most popular things to do in Darjeeling is taking a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Powered by an antique steam locomotive, the 140-year-old " Toy Train " takes tourists on two-hour fun rides from Darjeeling to Ghum– a journey that's regularly counted as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata

India's third-largest city, Kolkata, is a decaying masterpiece of former British India, brimming with colonial-era architecture . The top things to do in Kolkata include seeing the Victoria Memorial, a white marble monument that features a museum with dozens of galleries, and Park Street, a famous thoroughfare with shops and restaurants that bustle 24/7, especially during the holidays.

But Kolkata is as much about the sites as it is about the emotions. This is a city that will somehow induce every one of your emotions with the highs and lows of life taking place in plain view on every street. Brace yourself, and be open to the experience.

The elaborately carved Adalaj Stepwell on the outskirts of Ahmedabad

The largest city in Gujarat , Ahmedabad is a noisy, overwhelming metropolis that somehow wins over the tourists who make their way here. The historic city of Ahmedabad earned the coveted title of India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017 for its rich architecture, walls and gates, and significant Hindu and Jain temples.

On the western bank of the Sabarmati River , tourists can wander around Sabarmati Ashram , Gandhi's headquarters from 1917 to 1930. Its museum talks about the life of the Indian hero, and displays his iconic spectacles and spinning wheel. While you're in the city, sample the street food –some say it's the best in all of India.

Shimla

When the temperatures skyrocket in New Delhi and other cities in North India, tourists and locals alike make their way to cooler climates in the hill stations, the most popular of which is Shimla. The cloudy weather and forested hillsides make for a satisfying escape from the heat, as well as a placid place to spend a weekend or more. The atmosphere in the hilly central part of town, where traffic is banned, is just as pleasant as the scenic outskirts.

While you're in the area, make a reservation on the Kalka-Shimla Railway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 96.6-kilometer-long railroad, which has been running for over a century, is renowned for its stunning views and authentic vintage experience.

Mysore Palace

While culturally different, South India is as enchanting as the north–just visit Mysore to see for yourself. The third-largest city in Karnataka is considered to be the cultural capital of the state, celebrated for its high-quality silk , Mysore painting tradition, and hypnotic Hindu temples with deity carvings that nearly touch the clouds.

Most tourists visit Mysore to see its World Heritage-listed palace. This attraction takes Indian grandeur to the next level, with endless mirrored decor, stained-glass windows, carved wooden doors, and intricate mosaic floors that look like the inside of a kaleidoscope. The palace is considered to be one of the country's finest examples of Indo-Saracenic design. Be sure to swing by to see the palace at night, when it's lit up with thousands of twinkle lights.

Lake and beautiful mountain scenery in Ladakh

Situated amid the jagged crags of the Karakoram and Zanskar mountain ranges , Ladakh offers tourists the chance to immerse themselves in an awe-inspiring alpine desert. Driving around the region's winding roads comes with one incredible natural view after the next: plunging valleys, gushing rivers, snowcapped peaks, and more. Ladakh's enchanting capital, Leh , stands at 3,500 meters above sea level, so you'll want to spend at least a few days acclimating to the altitude before embarking on any strenuous activities.

Ladakh didn't open to tourists until 1974. Given its difficult-to-reach location and its long-time isolation, the Buddhist-majority region has retained a unique cultural identity and a somewhat "untouched" feel. You'll see Buddhist monasteries and temples all around Leh's Old Town, and countless colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

Don't miss the nine-story Leh Palace , which dates back to the 17th century, as well as the Shanti Stupa –a monument to world peace. You can also see a superbly sustainable way of life in this traditional community, which receives very little imported goods and remains largely self-sufficient.

Manali

In a country as sweltering as India, it's a relief to find cool weather in hill stations all over the country. Manali happens to be one of the most popular among local and foreign tourists alike. Located in Himachal Pradesh , the high-altitude resort town in the Himalayas makes an easy getaway from Jaipur, New Delhi , or Punjab. The tourist-friendly Old Manali neighborhood brims with chilled-out cafés; great restaurants; and home-stay accommodations, where visitors can experience a local way of life.

Manali is also a convenient base if you want to experience the great outdoors in this beautiful region of North India. From here, you can go trekking in the Parvati Valley, paragliding and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal mountains, and white-water rafting down the Beas River. Outfitters around the town can assist with all the arrangements and gear rentals.

Abbey Falls, Kodagu

Take one look at Kodagu's hilly emerald landscape perpetually blanketed by a cloud of mist, and you'll instantly see why this hill station is nicknamed "the Scotland of India." Previously called Coorg, the affluent area's biggest draws are its coffee and spice plantations . Tours of historic agricultural sites give tourists up-close views of how these foods are grown and produced. The lush scenery also makes for great bird-watching and trekking , especially in the Western Ghats.

Other popular things to do in Kodagu include seeing the 21-meter Abbey Falls gushing after the rainy season, hearing the chants of young monks at the Namdroling Monastery's famous Golden Temple, visiting the 17th-century Madikeri Fort , and watching elephants take a bath at Dubare Elephant Camp.

Elephant in the surf on Havelock Island, Andaman Islands

Andaman Islands are the go-to place in India if you're looking for a classic beach vacation. They'll treat you to powder-white sand beaches flanked by coconut palms, pastel-streaked sunsets, the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and dense jungle landscapes. No postcard could possibly capture the majesty of this gorgeous destination.

Its ultra remote location, closer to Indonesia than mainland India, presents challenges for those who want to step foot on one of the few dozen islands open to tourists. You'll need to take a domestic flight from a major Indian city, such as Chennai, New Delhi, or Mumbai . Or, you can brave one of the long-distance ferry rides across the Bay of Bengal .

The effort can be well worth the reward, though. You'll have some of India's best beaches almost all to yourself, and the chance to see rare birds and thriving coral reefs. Culture hounds and history buffs will also relish exploring the Victorian British ruins on Ross Island , which are slowly being engulfed by the jungle.

McLeod Ganj

Did you know you can visit the home of the Dalai Lama on a trip to India? The Tibetan spiritual leader's base can be found at the Tsuglagkhang complex , a monastic village in the hill station of McLeod Ganj.

Most afternoons, you can see monks passionately debate one another in the central courtyard. Make your way around the complex to see pilgrims (many of whom are in exile from Tibet) spinning prayer wheels and prostrating in prayer, along with the temple and throne on which the Dalai Lama delivers his teachings. There's also a small Tibet Museum on-site, which gives tourists a deeper understanding of the struggle Tibetans face amid Chinese occupation through moving photo exhibits and a video.

The Tsuglagkhang complex alone makes it well worth a visit to McLeod Ganj, but you can also check out a range of other attractions throughout Dharamsala. Watch artisans teach and practice traditional Tibetan art, like woodcarving and thangka painting at the Norbulingka Institute . Make the nine-kilometer trek up Triund Hill to catch views of the mighty Dhauladhar mountain range. And on your way to the Bhagsu Waterfalls , make a stop at the Bhagsunag Temple to see the ancient sacred pools, believed to be filled with healing waters.

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in India

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India is the world’s seventh-largest country stretching from the high mountains of the Himalayas to the tropical greenery of Kerala, and from the sacred Ganges to the sands of the Thar desert. Its more than one billion inhabitants are divided into two thousand ethnic groups and speak over 200 different languages.

Conform its size and population, India has an almost endless variety of cultures, landscapes, monuments and places to explore. From the ancient ruins, fascinating religious structures, exotic cities and diverse landscape there is an endless collection of tourist attractions in India that will never cease to awe and fascinate the visitor.

27. Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal

A stunning pick and red sandstone five-story structure stands in the heart of Jaipur. One of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, the Hawa Mahal has a unique purpose. Also known as the Palace of the Wind, it was a place where royal women could view street activities outside while hidden from view. To this end, the pyramid-shaped palace has 953 windows, each with an intricate design. Constructed in 1799, Hawa Mahal is considered an excellent example of Rajputana architecture.

26. Havelock Island

Havelock Island

Ecotourism is encouraged at Havelock Island, the largest island in Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andaman Islands. Though not as crowded as other islands in Asia, the number of visitors to Havelock Island is on the rise due to its great beaches, casual atmosphere, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The best time to visit is mid-January to mid-May, when the weather is sunny with calmer seas. Redhanagar Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Asia.

25. Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park

Seeing wildlife in its habitat is a goal for many travelers. A visit to Bandhavgarh National Park will not disappoint them. One of India’s most popular national parks, Bandhavgarh provides an opportunity to see leopards, barking deer, sloth bears, hyenas, and Indian bison and wolves, but Bengal tigers are definitely the star attraction, even though only 10 percent of visitors may see one. The best time to see wildlife here is early morning or late afternoon.

24. Dharamsala

Dharamsala

Dharamsala is the home away from home for the Dalai Lama who came here in 1959 after escaping from Tibet. The city also is the home to the Tibetan government in exile. Dharamsala means a spiritual dwelling or place for pilgrims to rest, which is appropriate since so many Tibetans live here. With advance planning, it may be possible to attend one of the Dalai Lamas public teaching sessions. Dharamsala is popular with hiking enthusiasts and travelers interested in yoga and Indian cooking lessons.

23. Pushkar Camel Fair

Pushkar Camel Fair

Visitors who want to take a camel home with them as a souvenir of their trip to India may want to attend the Pushkar Camel Fair. This two-week fall fair also is a good opportunity to buy other livestock, as more than 1,000 animals are bought, sold or traded, though camels are the main draw. Over the years, the fair has become more than just a place where farmers buy and sell livestock. It’s evolved into a full-scale festival that includes camel races, sports events, carnival rides and even moustache competitions.

22. Ranakpur Temple

Ranakpur Temple

Ranakpur Temple is an imposing and highly decorative Jain temple that is famous for its art and architecture, considered some of the world’s best. Built in the 15th century, it took more than 50 years to construct the temple. One of the largest temples in India, Ranakpur Temple has 29 halls and 80 domes, but is really famous for its 1,444 pillars, of which each one is unique. Statues of deities top each dome. Extremely intricate carvings highlight the interior.

21. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach is popular with travelers who just want to take a break from sightseeing for a while. Its sandy beaches along impressive cliffs are perfect for beachcombing, sunbathing and swimming, just some of the reasons Discovery channel named it one of the top 10 seasonal beaches in the world. It’s also known for its mineral springs; swimming in them is believed to heal ailments and purify one’s sins. Travelers who want to sneak in some sightseeing may enjoy a visit to Janardhana Swami Temple, a 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

20. Darjeeling

Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a town in northeast India that is famous for tea, trains and scenic beauty. Darjeeling tea is thin, light colored, aromatic and soothing to drink. The leaves are grown in the hills around the town. Farther up in the skyline, travelers can see the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayan foothills. Access is by a three-hour car ride from the nearest airport or a seven-hour journey on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railroad, a narrow gauge railway known as the “toy train.”

19. Qutb Minar

Qutb Minar

Qutb Minar is the second highest brick minaret in the world. The minaret, towering 80 meters (270 feet) into the sky, is made of marble and red sandstone bricks that are carved with sayings from the Koran. Construction took four years, starting in 1193. A circular staircase with 379 steps leads to the top; it is closed to visitors. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosqueaa, the first mosque built in India, lies at the minaret’s foot. Nearby is the Iron Pillar, so named because it’s made from metals that don’t rust.

18. Thikse Monastery

Thikse Monastery

Travelers who’ve been to Tibet may think they’re seeing things when they look at Thikse Monastery. That’s because the 12-story building resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa, only this Buddhist monastery is located in Ladakh, India. Like its Tibetan inspiration, it’s located at a high elevation: 3,600 meters (11,800 feet). Ladakh’s largest monastery also contains the tallest statue, a 14-meter (45-foot) high depiction of Maitreya, housed in a temple commemorating the visit of the Dalai Lama in 1970. Important Buddhist art, such as stupas and wall paintings, can be found here.

17. Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace

Visitors to Mysore Palace are in for an awesome experience at sthe second most popular tourist attraction in India. The seven palaces that make up the Mysore Palace complex are nothing short of spectacular. The Wodeyars ruled Mysore from 1399 to 1950. Their original palace was built in 1399, and the current palace was completed in 1912. The new palace is an amalgamation of Muslim, Hindu, Gothic and Raiput styles. Three stories high, it has deep pink marble domes and an ivory tower. The palace hosts an annual arts and culture festival, Dashara annually.

16. Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort is a most imposing, a stern-looking fort, one of the largest in India, that sits atop a hill overlooking Jodhpur. Built in the mid-15th century as a defense mechanism, visitors can still see cannonball imprints on one of the seven entrance gates. Once inside the walls, visitors will find beautiful, highly decorated palaces. The fort’s museum has an excellent collection of palanquins, musical instruments, royal cradles and costumes. The ramparts, where an old cannon is located, provide splendid views of Jodhpur.

15. Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park

Everyone loves to see animals in the wild. Jim Corbett National Park, India’s oldest national park, is a good place to see the endangered Bengal tiger. Established in 1936, the park was renamed in 1954 to honor Jim Corbett, author and wildlife conservationist, who helped create this nature reserve. Thick vegetation, including jungles and forest, make it difficult to see the tiger – April to June is best for that, but visitors may see other wildlife, including elephants, leopards, rhinoceros and Himalayan black bears.

14. Amber Fort

Amber Fort

Amber Fort, the main tourist attraction around Jaipur, is known for its outstanding architecture. Sitting atop a hill, the complex is a blend of Hindu and Rajput styles. Built in the late 16th century, pink and red sandstone and marble structure has been featured in Bollywood films. It is most famous for the Mirror Palace, a fabulous room with a pure glass ceiling so the queen could view the stars before she fell asleep. Access is by foot, 4WD vehicle or elephant.

13. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple is an impressive Hindu temple that dates back to the sixth century, though most of the present structure was built a thousand years later. Located on the Vaigai River , it is perhaps the most important temple in Madurai, itself a 2,500-year-old city. Intricate carvings about inside and out; the temple has a total of 14 towers, each dedicated to a god or person. Some 33,000 sculptures as well as rich paintings can be found in the temple complex.

12. Khajuraho

Khajuraho

The Khajuraho group of temples combines art with eroticism, with the end result being some of the finest medieval temple art, not only in India, but the world. Built around the 10th century, only about 25 of the original 85 temples remain today. The largest group of Hindu and Jain temples in the world, the carvings and sculptures represent women’s traditional lifestyles in medieval times. The sculptures were created at a time, when erotic art was auspicious; some of the carvings are sexually explicit.

11. Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are rock-cut cave monuments dating from the 2th century BC. The magnificent Ajanta caves were abandoned around 650 AD and forgotten until 1819, when a British hunting party stumbled upon them. Their isolation contributed to the fine state of preservation in which some of their paintings remain to this day. The well preserved murals depict everything from battlefields to sailing ships, city streets and teeming animal-filled forests to snow-capped mountains. The city of Aurangabad is the gateway to the Ajanta Caves as well as the equally spectacular Ellora Caves.

10. Kerala backwaters

Kerala backwaters

The Kerala backwaters are a chain of lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in the Kerala state. The Kerala backwaters are home to many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds and animals such as otters and turtles. Today, houseboat tourism is the most popular tourist activity in the backwaters, with several large Kettuvallams (traditional rice boats, now converted into floating hotels)ply the waterways.

9. Lake Palace

Lake Palace

The Lake Palace in Lake Pichola in the city of Udaipur was built as a royal summer palace in the 18th century. Today it is a luxury 5 Star hotel, operating under the “Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces”. The Lake Palace hotel operates a boat which transports guests to the hotel from a jetty at the City Palace on the east bank of Lake Pichola. The palace became famous in 1983 when it was featured in the James Bond film Octopussy, as the home of titular character.

8. Virupaksha Temple

Virupaksha Temple

The Virupaksha Temple in the city of Hampi started out as a small shrine and grew into a large complex under the Vijayanagara rulers. It is believed that this temple has been functioning uninterruptedly ever since the small shrine was built in the 7th century AD which makes it one of the oldest functioning Hindu temples in India.

Palolem

Palolem is the most southerly of Goa’s developed beaches and also one of the most beautiful. It is a natural bay surrounded by lofty headlands on either sides, resulting in a calm, idyllic sea with a gently sloping bed. For those who believe a beach cannot be paradise without a decent selection of cheap restaurants and good hotels, a dose of nightlife and plenty of like-minded people Palolem is the place to be.

6. Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park is among the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Asia and one of best places to catch a glimpse of a tiger in India. The lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows and ravines of Kanha provided inspiration to Rudyard Kipling for his famous novel “Jungle Book” and make this one of the top attractions in India.

5. Harmandir Sahib

Harmandir Sahib

The Harmandir Sahib, better known as the Golden Temple is the main tourist attraction in Amritsar, and the most important religious place to the Sikhs. Construction of the temple was begun by Guru Ramdas ji. in the 16th century. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh the upper floors of the temple were covered with gold. It’s a stunning temple, and always full of thousands of pilgrims from all over India, excited to be at a place that they usually only see on television.

4. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer

Located in Rajasthan’s remote westernmost corner close to the border with Pakistan, Jaisalmer is the quintessential desert town. The yellow sandstone walls of the “Golden City” rise from the Thar desert like a scene from the Arabian Nights while the Jaisalmer Fort crowns the city. Uncontrolled commercialism has dampened the romantic vision of Jaisalmer, but even with all the touts and tour buses, it remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in India.

3. Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves

Cave art is taken to new heights at Ellora Caves , one of the largest monastery-temple cave complexes in the world cut from rock. Ellora has 100 caves, though only 34 are open to the public. The largest single monolithic rock excavation is found at the Kailasa Temple, which covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens Constructed between the seventh and ninth centuries, the caves are devoted to Hindu, Budhist and Jainism deities.

2. Varanasi

Varanasi

Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. The scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the backdrop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world.

1. Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal in Agra is an immense mausoleum of white marble, built between 1632 and 1653 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife. Called “a teardrop on the cheek of eternity” it is one of the masterpieces of Mughal architecture, and one of the great tourist attractions in India. Besides the white domed marble mausoleum the Taj Mahal includes several other beautiful buildings, reflecting pools, and extensive ornamental gardens with flowering trees and bushes.

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Reader interactions.

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June 3, 2019 at 11:46 pm

Wonderful post. This blog has an amazing information about the destination places of India beautiful visiting spot……and captures very impressive photos.

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May 27, 2019 at 7:23 am

Apart from the above still there are so many places. For example in Karnataka, you have got the following places worth seeing; 1.Shravanabealgola,where you find 58 feet tall Gomateswara Statue carved in monolithic stone on top of a hill,near Hassan. I think one of the wonder of the world. 2.Again,Halebeedu and Belur places near Hassan,you have got beautiful temples with rich sculptures, more than 1000 years old. I think it is more beautiful than Khajarajo temples.

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August 15, 2018 at 6:57 am

India is a beautiful country with a different culture. But most travellers Visit Varanasi and comment saying india is dirty and stuff like that. If you really want to experience india make sure to visit all the states . !!

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February 28, 2018 at 10:23 pm

Surprise why the Kashmir is not in the list that is the most beautiful place in India

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August 13, 2017 at 9:36 pm

These are all amazing places, but I would argue that the Akshardham Delhi Temple should be in this list. I visited both Akshardham and Taj Mahal during one visit, both have amazing architecture yet I was more touched by Akshardham in Delhi.

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December 1, 2016 at 4:45 pm

The Taj Mahal is beautiful!

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November 5, 2016 at 10:50 pm

Plz visit Ranthambore tiger safari in Rajasthan . This is one of India ‘s best tiger reserve park. YOU can see tiger in open environment .this is one of Indai’s best tiger conservation project.

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February 3, 2016 at 11:43 am

I am a Kealite. Probably my views may be biased. Recently I had been to Kumarokam and the house boat journey was a good experience. However those who are from outside Kerala may find it more attractive than me. Unlike other tourist destinations in India, the whole area is peaceful and not crowded and that is the main attraction. It is least expensive as well. Can give a try especially if you are in a Honeymoon Trip. You will get fantastic cottages adjacent to the Vembanad Lake. I also like Oooty (Tamilnadu), Kodai, Thekkadi, Vazhachal waterfalls (Kerala). I never had been to other tourist destinations in India. There can be better places as well.

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January 30, 2016 at 10:03 am

Kashmir valleys are heaven on earth. This must appear in this list

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January 26, 2016 at 2:24 am

I think backwaters of kerala is a wonderful place, should visit there once

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September 30, 2015 at 2:22 pm

While this list is great, here are other honourable mentions that I honestly recommend any traveller to pay a visit.

1. Khajuraho Temple – Inscriptions inspired from Kamasutra 2. Konark Sun Temple – Impressive views and coastline 3. Tanjore Brihadeeshwara Temple – Grand architecture built by Chola Kings 4. Darjeeling – Beautiful hill station, great tea and plantations, mountain railway and views 5. Gir National Park – Only home of the Lions outside of Africa

The places mentioned above are declared as UNESCO world heritage sites that deserve a travellers’ attention.

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July 23, 2015 at 7:10 am

Palolem all the way…Have been going there every time i go to Goa and will continue. The tiny island to the north of the beach is simply amazing!!! Another attraction close to Palolem would be Cabo De Rama for arguably for the most panoramic view in Goa. Viva la Goa…Boom!!!

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April 29, 2015 at 4:50 pm

i thought the Taj Mahal was #awsome! i think it was really exciting to be in there and witness all the wonders of it.

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December 20, 2014 at 8:12 pm

Kerala backwaters is the most beautiful place in India.

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October 25, 2014 at 2:13 pm

The above are beautiful places I agree that but among this list Odisha Jagannatha tempul,Udaya giri ,Lalit giri,Konark is missing. The most beautiful beach in India

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October 4, 2014 at 10:57 am

These are all amazing places, but I would argue that the Akshardham Delhi Temple should be in this list. I visited both Akshardham and Taj Mahal during one visit, both are Amazing architectures yet I found more touched by Akshardham in Delhi.

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September 20, 2014 at 8:13 am

I would like to visit lake palace its intrstng place & jesalmer too

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September 9, 2014 at 12:56 am

I have visited Hampi and Taj in 2014

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September 5, 2014 at 4:16 am

Seeing Taj Mahal,I notice the beauty of the world!!!

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August 22, 2014 at 4:18 am

among all these i like goa beach very much. i would like to go there with my family and friends.

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July 11, 2014 at 4:02 am

The above are beautiful places I agree that but among this list Kanyakumari is missing. The most beautiful beach in India.

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April 24, 2014 at 12:28 am

Anyone would really miss a lot if one visits NE and left out the only lake palace in whole Eastern India situated at Tripura – a magnificent one indeed! You can also get to see UNAKOTI Hills where as many as 9999999 (1 less than 1 crore) idols are sculpted on the hills- plz pay a visit there

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March 4, 2014 at 2:48 am

i really like to go to India and see all the beautiful things

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January 30, 2014 at 10:15 pm

Taj mahal is the most beautiful place i ever seen.

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December 24, 2013 at 10:51 am

Kerala Backwaters – Nice place to enjoy with family, get together with friends and especially for honeymoon. whole day in boat between waters thrilling with embrassment. Dont miss it. Really it means – “Gods Own Country”- Naturals gift

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December 15, 2013 at 4:58 am

Jaisalmer 🙂 i love this places

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December 7, 2013 at 1:34 am

The best place was kerala.

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November 25, 2013 at 11:57 pm

“Construction of the temple was begun by Guru Ram Dast in the 16th century”. It’s not Guru Ram Dast, but it should be Guru Ram Das…….. He was the fourth of the ten Gurus of Sikhism.

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May 1, 2013 at 8:12 pm

The best place was Amritsar

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December 23, 2011 at 11:56 am

I completely agree with Kiran, kerala backwater is really amazing, i would also like to share that if you really want to feel the hinduism, you must go to Varanasi.

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November 4, 2011 at 12:03 am

The most beautiful is , I a sure that Kerala backwaters. This is the most beautiful and inexpensive one

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india natural tourist attractions

7 of the most incredible natural wonders in India

True beauty lies in nature's creations. take a look at some of the most stunning natural formations in india..

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Heart Shaped Lake in Karnataka. Picture courtesy: www.keralatourism.org

The world of mankind is making the world more beautiful with its innovative ideas on a regular basis. But the beauty that lies in nature's creations is undeniably stunning. Some of them are so awe-inspiring that people believe God to be an artist, whose canvas is planet Earth. India is home to quite a few natural wonders -- those that can fill a traveller's heart with joy. Let's take a quick look at the ones that deserve a place in every traveller's diary.

Picture courtesy: Wikimedia/V4vjk/Creative Commons

Located right outside the Lonar town in Maharashtra, there's lake which looks like the creation of something unearthly. Well, not an alien of course! The space was formed when a meteor crashed on Earth about 50,000 years ago. Considered as the world's third largest crater, the Lonar Crater Lake is both saline and alkaline in nature and looks green in colour when looked at from a distance. The circumference of the lake is said to be eight kilometres at the top, and 4.8 km at the bottom. One can find various mentions of this lake in ancient scripts like Skanda Puran, the Padma Puran and Aaina-i-Akbari.

Picture courtesy: Flickr/Nicolas Mirguet/Creative Commons

Most travellers want to visit Mahabalipuram in search of amazing heritage sites and beautiful ancient temples. But when you are there, do take out some time to witness this natural wonder as well. A massive stone, popularly known as the Krishna's Butter Ball, has balanced itself precariously at the slippery edge of a hill for ages. Looking at it, one wonders as to how come a 20-feet-high, 5-metre-wide and 250-ton stone stood the test of time to remain stuck at that place for so many years. Apart from attracting travellers, the rock also serves as a shade for animals who want to stay away from the sun for a while.

Picture courtesy: Flickr/Sudheesh S/Creative Commons

It's places like these that make you wonder if God is actually an artist. Located at Chembra Peak, the highest point of Wayanad at an altitude of 6,900 feet, is the famous Heart Shaped Lake. As the name suggests, the lake is actually in the shape of a giant heart! Adding to the beauty of this lake is the charm of the Western Ghats, which the Chembra Peak is a part of, and the enchanting Nilgiri Hills lying right next to it. What makes this lake even more wondrous is the fact that it has never dried up.

Picture courtesy: Flickr/Alosh Bennett/Creative Commons

This place looks like one right out of a fairy tale. At first look, Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, doesn't look like a place that has naturally come into being. After all, nowhere else in the world will you see acres of land filled with so many colourful flowers arranged uniformly in different clusters spread across the place naturally. Talking about the variety, the place is home to more than 300 endemic types of alpine flowers. The snow-clad Himalayan peaks make for a stunning backdrop to this place. Also read: 6 of the most beautiful homestays in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh

Picture courtesy: Flickr/Sankara Subramanian/Creative Commons

Thanks to the sheer size of this waterfall, it is often referred to as the Niagara of India. Located on River Kaveri, in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, the Hogenakkal Falls is counted amongst the most stunning tourist attractions in the country. One can spend hours looking at the milky-white water lashing down the heights along with the constant sound of the gushing water, which is soothing to the ears. The waterfall can be best experienced with the help of boat rides, that are also popular among the tourists visiting this place.

Picture courtesy: Flickr/Arun Prabhu/Creative Commons

What makes this island so special is its numerous volcanic rock formations. Known as the Columnar Basaltic Lava, this set of hexagonal and polygonal rocks were formed about 60 million years ago, during the formation of the Deccan Traps, when dense viscid basaltic lava cooled down and took various interesting shapes. The shapes are so distinct that these rocks actually look man-made.

Picture courtesy: Flickr/Praveen/Creative Commons

The dark caverns of Belum Caves are there to make travellers feel delighted in more ways than one. With a depth of around 3.5 km, it is the second largest cave in India and is also considered one of the longest caves in the Indian subcontinent. The stalactite and stalagmite formations in this cave make for a sight that is hard to forget in an entire lifetime. A traveller is often left awestruck at the beauty of this place, which was formed due to the constant flow of underground water for centuries. With all that in knowledge, one wonders as to how ancient this place is, and the kind of secrets and memories it has had over the years. Only 1.5 km of the cave is open to the tourists. Published By: AtMigration Published On: Apr 5, 2016 --- ENDS ---

Top 15 Most Beautiful Natural Scenic Attractions in India

India the land of attractions offers some of the best landscapes in the world along with amazing natural wonders and sceneries. apart from the top  20 must see places across india, here is the list of most beautiful natural scenic attractions to explore around the country., must visit tourist destinations before they vanish, snow capped peaks – munsiyari, the trekkers paradise is a hill station nestled in the snow capped peaks of the great himalayas in the pithoragarh district of uttarakhand. munsiyari is the base point for various treks of the great himalayan mountain ranges., zanskar valley -ladakh, the zanskar valley is one of the remotest places in india, located in ladakh. zanskar range is a mountain range that separates spiti and ladakh, the highest peaks of himachal are located in the zanskar range., sand dunes -jaisalmer, jaisalmer, the jewel of desert is located near to the state capital jaipur in rajasthan. the golden city is known for its grand fort, palaces and several ornate jain temples along with the golden sand dunes and camel safari., salt marsh -kutch, the rann of kutch is a salt marsh divided into two main parts, great rann of kutch and little rann of kutch in the kutch district of gujarat.rann of kutch has thar desert on one side and the sea on the other, which makes it an intresting region for unique flora and fauna like famous indian wild ass,desert fox and near threatened blackbuck., matheran hill -raigad, matheran is the smallest hill station in india,located on the western ghats range in the raigad district of maharashtra. matheran hills is a popular tourist spot to beat the summer heat in the region and also known for its matheran hill railway one of the 6 mountain railways of india., dudhsagar waterfall -goa, the astonishing waterfalls is created by the mandovi river and located in the bhagwan mahavir wild life sanctuary on the border of goa and karnataka. dudhsagar falls or sea of milk is a tiered and most powerful falls,listed as india’s fifth tallest waterfall, it offers one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the country., brackish lagoons -alleppey, the kerala backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons parallel to the arabian sea coast or the malabar coast.backwaters of alappuzha or alleppey is the gate way to the backwaters network, which includes five large lakes linked by canals., coral reef -lakshadweep, lakshadweep is a perfect combination of beautiful islands, exotic beaches,coral reefs,blue lagoons and water sports. islands of kavaratti, kalpeni, minicoy and kadmath are well famous for its coral reefs tour and other attractions., dhanushkodi beach -rameshwaram, the dhanushkodi beach is located between the india and sri lanka and the only land border between both countries. at dhanushkodi one can enjoy the view of deep and rough waters of indian ocean meeting with the shallow and calm waters of bay of bengal., shola forest -nilgiri, the evergreen tropical forest is the rolling grassland found mainly in the valleys and higher altitude hill regions of the nilgiris and kanyakumari in western ghats. shola forests is home to many threatened and endemic species such as endangered nilgiri tahr,an asian goat-antelope, nilgiri wood pigeon and the endemic flycatchers along with reptiles,amphibians and many species of trees and plants., bhitarkanika wetland -kendrapara, the bhitarkanika mangroves forest is one of the largest wetland in india located in the bhitarkanika national park of odisha. bhitarkanika wetland is home to india’s largest populations of saltwater crocodiles and most most important nesting beach olive ridley sea turtle., krem liat prah cave -jaintia, meghalaya, the abode of clouds is famous for its many caves located deep in the jungle and some of the caves are listed amongst the longest and deepest in the world. krem liat prah cave is the longest natural cave in india and one of the longest in the indian subcontinent as well with total length of approximately 31 km., ganges delta -haldia, the green delta is also known as sunderbans delta or the ganges–brahmaputra delta is the world’s largest delta. the ganges delta is formed by large rivers the ganges,the brahmaputra,the padma,the hooghly river and the jamuna., majuli island -jorhat, majuli island is the largest river island in the world formed by the brahmaputra river in assam. the wetland is only accessible by ferries from the city of jorhat and famous as a hotspot for flora and fauna., meadows of kanha -jabalpur, kanha national park is one of the most visited national park in india located in the mandla and balaghat districts of madhya pradesh. the tiger reserve is well known for its dense, deep forest and meadows, which are ideal place for the royal bengal tigers., valley of flowers national park is an indian national park has been added here: must see indian places, 13 comments.

You can add Valley of flowers as well, Please check http:/www.valleyofflowers.info for more details, its world heritage site under nature category.

Thanks, added on other article.

Thanks!! It helped me a lot with my projects ^_^

U can consider khajjiar too

Agree Khajjiar is one of the Most Beautiful Natural Scenic Attractions in India.

india is popular country in this world,

Thnx for useful information. I feel that Konark temple, Khajuraho, Ajantha caves may be added in the list.

Hello Thank, they have been already added on other article.

All Places are top visiting destination in india but nainital is missing here Which is a Himalayan resort town in the Kumaon region of India’s Uttarakhand state, at an elevation of roughly 2,000m. Formerly a British hill station, it’s set around Nainital Lake, a popular boating site with Naina Devi Hindu Temple on its north shore.

In real, India is the land of attractions. In order to stay connected with the trains information about your favourite destination, prefer Indian Railway IRCTC PNR App. It provides every information about IRCTC, your PNR Status, and you can book and cancel tickets through this app. Install today!

You should visit those maevellous places of India. In order to know about the trains for your favorite destinations, install Indian Railway IRCTC PNR App, which provides latest accurate updates about IRCTC,irctc seat availaibility etc. Take every information at your fingertips.

in real, indian natural palace is vary vary ameazing,connecten in the trains imformation about your favourite distanation, i like vary vary popular in this world,why not india is the best country in this world, i love u india.

Nature is beautiful and valley of flowers is the most beautiful place to enjoy the beauty of the nature.

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15 Incredible Natural Wonders of India: Visit Before You Die

15 incredible natural wonders of india to visit

With a vast geographical expanse and an abode to nature’s ethereal creations and little-known mysteries, India doesn’t cease to amaze the world with its wonders, both man-made and natural. We bring to you 15 natural wonders of India, which will surely leave you enchanted and surprised! This land of wonders offers many unsolved and intriguing geographical features of India. It leaves us wanting to make a list of 100 wonders of India, but we did settle for the Top 15 wonders of India with name and photos. A country of great topographic diversity and scenic beauties, India is the most popular destination for surreal experiences. We offer you some awe-inspiring natural wonders in India. Do have a read!

15 incredible natural wonders of india northern lights

Irrespective of the issues like global warming, we are constantly trying to make our world a better and beautiful place with our innovative ideas on a regular basis. No matter how much we have progressed in terms of technology, the beauty that lies in nature’s creations is undeniably beyond compare. Some of them are so awe-inspiring that even atheists are forced to acknowledge God as an artist, whose canvas is our planet Earth. India is home to quite to few such marvelous scenic spots. We have listed down 15 wonders of nature, those that can fill your heart with joy. Let’s take a quick look at the ones that deserve a place in every traveler’s diary.

Some of them are a case of intrigue while others are plain enchanting! Feast your eyes on the world’s third largest crater, enigmatic dancing lights, the largest salt desert in the world, unique volcanic formations, paranormal lights and more.

Have a Look at Incredible Natural Wonders of India

Before jumping into the list of the breathtaking Indian natural wonders, you can check MakeMyTrip offers on flight and hotel bookings to make the most of your vacation. Use travel coupons on your next trip to amazing destinations :)

1. Lonar Crater Lake

Lonar Lake is a saline soda lake located at Lonar in Buldhana district, Maharashtra. It was created by a meteor impact during the Pleistocene Epoch and it is the only known hypervelocity impact crater in basaltic rock anywhere on Earth.

Isn’t it intriguing to discover that an asteroid has left its mark on our land – India? The Lonar Crater Lake is a mysterious creation of nature when this lake was created by a meteor impact about 52,000 years ago. Lonar Lake is a saline soda lake located at Lonar in Buldana district. It is distinguished by the fact that it is the world’s third largest crater.

50,000 years ago, a 2 million-ton meteorite had hit the earth to create a depression of 150 meters deep. Lonar has evolved into an idyllic expanse of sky blue water amidst a sprawling emerald forest that stretches around it. The lake is both saline and alkaline in nature. Numerous temples surround the lake, most of which stand in ruins. Except for the temple of Daitya Sudan at the center of the Lonar town which is a fine example of early Hindu architecture.

natural_wonders_of_india_lonar_crater

Best Time To Visit: November to February Nearest Airport:  Aurangabad Airport (157 Kms away) Nearest Railway Station: Jalna ( 90 Kms away)

2. Needle Hole Point

For a rare view of nature, visit Needle Hole Point in Mahabaleshwar to witness what seems to be finely sculpted by a craftsman. Located near Kate’s Point, Needle Hole point is also known as Elephant Point named for its natural rock formation that resembles an elephant’s face. Enjoy the stunning sight of Deccan traps, which look like an elephant’s trunk. This one of seven wonders of India has 3 points in total viz Kate’s Point, Echo Point, and Needle Hole Point. Apart from this spot, the town of Mahabaleshwar also has many ravishing tourist attractions that extremely serene and picture-worthy.

In the words of a fellow traveler:

This hill station is fabulous, especially if you visit it immediately after the monsoons or towards its end. Situated at a 3hrs drive from Pune, there are a lot of buses connecting this place to Pune – apart from private operators, the government transport runs a bus almost every hour. So getting here should not be a problem. For sight seeing you can hire a cab which charge you as a package , and the places of visit are the innumerable ‘view points’ each with a different name.

kate-point-15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: October to June Nearest Airport:  Pune (120 Kms away) Nearest Railway Station: Satara (55 Kms away)

 3. Borra Caves

Huddled in the Ananthgiri hill ranges of Andhra Pradesh, around 90km from Visakhapatnam, Borra Caves are a splendid example of nature’s “work in progress”. These limestone caves are the deepest among its kind in the country (over 260 feet deep). It consists of various Stalagmite and Stalactite formations from very small to big along with unevenly shaped sizes.

The true attraction of the Borra Caves lies in the sixty-three lamps inside the caves. In these caves, as mineral-rich water trickles from the roof of the cave, they make a small ring of minerals in its wake. When this drips on the floor, it forms another small mineral deposit. Over the ages, these shape to form soda straws and cones on the ceiling, while creating a conical cake like assemblies on the floor.

borra-15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: November – March Nearest Airport:  Vishakapatnam International Airport Nearest Railway Station: Vizag (Kirandul Passenger train)

Apart from exploring one of our listed natural wonders in India, you can also visit local attractions that include Tyda park, Bheemili beach, Araku valley, Ananthagiri and Katiki waterfalls.

4. Dudhsagar Falls

Here is another most beautiful of the seven wonders of the India. Dudhsagar falls shot to fame after being pictured in the Shahrukh Khan & Deepika Padukone starer blockbuster, Chennai Express. The magnificent outpouring of white water, spouting over the elevated, nearly vertical face of the mountain from a spectacular height of 1017 feet, is both breathtaking and awe-inspiring. The majestic beauty of these falls makes us realize that there are many forces in nature much more powerful than the human mind and body.

The name ‘Dudhsagar’ literally translates to ‘sea of milk’. The waterfall gives us an allusion of the white spray and foam that the great waterfall creates, as it gushes into the waters of the lake. The falls are at their zenith during the monsoon season, although they are a popular attraction all year round. Tucked away in the crescent-shaped valley, the waterfalls are carpeted with lush green flora, thus becoming a perfect getaway for honeymoon couples.

doodhsagar falls goa borra 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: Monsoon Nearest Airport:  Panaji Airport On Road: NH4A highway

5. Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill is a “gravity hill” (a gravity hill is a place where the layout of the surrounding land produces an optical illusion, making a slight downhill slope appear to be an uphill slope.) located near Leh in Ladakh, India. The layout of the surrounding slopes creates an optical illusion that the downhill road is actually an uphill road. Objects and cars on the hill may appear to roll “uphill” in defiance of gravity when they are, in fact, rolling downhill.

The other two such magnetic hills are located in Gujarat – near Bhuj (Kalo dungar – the black hills) and other at Tulsi Shyam. This small stretch of road located about 30 kms from Leh towards Kargil has mystified people for long and still continues to do so. On this stretch, if you turn off the engine and let your vehicle stand in neutral, it will slowly start moving and can go up to a speed of 20 kms per hour on its own. Mysterious, isn’t it?

What is believed to work behind this mysterious phenomenon is a magnetic force so strong that it can pull cars uphill. It is in fact so notorious that even the aircraft that fly over this region increase their altitude in order to avoid magnetic interference. Wouldn’t you like to explore this magical road at least once in your life? So, hurry up and plan your visit to Ladakh with your friends.

magnetic-hill-leh-15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: July to September Nearest Airport:  Leh Airport On Road:  Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway

6. Belum Caves

Belum Caves are the second largest caves in the Indian subcontinent. These enigmatic Belum Caves are included in our list of Indian wonders that has many mysteries hidden in its dark caverns. Famous for its stalactite and stalagmite formations, it is the second largest cave in the Indian subcontinent (3229 meters) and the longest caves in the plains of the Indian Subcontinent.

Belum Caves are the second largest caves in the Indian subcontinent. These enigmatic Belum Caves are included in our list of Indian wonders that has many mysteries hidden in its dark caverns. Famous for its stalactite and stalagmite formations, it is the second largest cave in the Indian subcontinent (3229 meters) and the longest caves in the plains of the Indian Subcontinent.

The cave has lengthy passages, airy chambers, fresh water galleries, and siphons. This underground cavern was naturally formed due to the continuous flow of underground water. As of today, 3.5 km of this fascinating natural wonder has been successfully explored, though only 1.5 km is open to tourists.

bellum-caves 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: Winters Nearest Airport:  Tirupati Airport (250 Kms away) Nearest Railway Station: Tadipatri Railway Station ( 30 Kms away)

7. Living Tree Bridges of Cherrapunji

Located in one of the wettest places on earth – Cherrapunji, Living Root bridges of Meghalaya can make for the most amazing pictures of nature in the world. This scenic spot is a way of boasting nature’s mysterious ways of creation. This place is famous for their ever-growing natural bridges, whilst some of them being 500 years old.

The roots of Ficus Elastic are grown by local Khasi tribes into strong and amazing natural bridges, which take around fifteen years to grow completely. These one-of-its-kind bridges are truly a natural marvel that you must visit.

The longest known living bridge is about 50 meters in length and is located in a small town of Pynursla. Many more living bridges can be found around the villages of Sohkynduh, Mawshuit, Nongpriagn, Rymmai and Kongthong.

Living-Tree-Bridges-Cherrapunji-15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: September to May Nearest Airport:  Shillong Airport ( 60 Kms) Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Station

8. Marble Rocks

Another wonder of nature, Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat in Jabalpur district are a well-known tourist destination. A trip to the Bhedaghat area of Jabalpur is incomplete without a boat ride on the Narmada through the high cliffs or the marble rocks. It is a rather rickety boat ride on the quiet Narmada through the 3km long gorge that runs between the high cliffs (approx 100 feet). As the boat moves, the white cliffs streaked with green and brown volcanic rocks shimmer under the sunlight. Marble Rocks are truly a traveler’s delight. These rocks are a magnificent gorge on river Narmada, around 3km in length. Local attractions complimenting these rocks include Dhuandhar Falls and Chausath Yogini temple.

marble-rocks-jabalpur-15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: November-March Nearest Airport:  Jabalpur Airport (40 Kms) Nearest Railway Station: Jabalpur Station (40Kms)

9. Banni Grasslands Reserve

Chir Batti is a strange and mysterious phenomenon of lights occurring in Banni grasslands on the outer southern edge of the Rann of Kutch, Gujrat. We couldn’t afford to miss but include it in our list of hidden wonders of India. If you ask the locals, they might refer to it as an occurrence of UFOs or that of ghosts. For long, the locals have alleged that they have witnessed some enigmatic dancing lights at Banni Grasslands Reserve in Rann of Kutch. Even soldiers were shocked as these lights seemed to have followed them.

Named as Chir Batti, they appear to be as bright as a mercury lamp and can alter their color into blue, red, yellow to a pear-shaped moving ball. At times they remain still and other times they move in a quick speed. Scientists claim that this phenomenon occurs due to oxidation of methane from the marshes.

chir batti banni grasslands 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: July to March Nearest Airport:  Bhuj Airport Nearest Railway Station: Well connected with Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Baroda etc.

10. Loktak Floating Lake

Located around 54km from Imphal, in Bishnupur district, Manipur, Loktak lake is the world’s only floating National Park located in India. On this unbelievably beautiful lake, you can see world’s only floating islands, known as “Phumdis”. The term phumdis refers to a collection of a heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil, and organic matter at various stages of decomposition.

Resembling miniature islands, these phumdis are found in various forms, floating on the lake. Loktak lake also has world’s largest floating park, the Keibul Lamjao National Park.

Covering an area of 300 square meters, the lake is a lifeline for many people. It serves as a source of water for hydropower generation, irrigation and drinking water supply in the region, other than being the source of income for many fishermen who largely depend on it.

loktak lake 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: October – April Nearest Airport:  Domestic – Imphal, International – Guwahati Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur Railway Station

11. Amarnath Cave

Considered as among the holiest shrines in Hinduism, the mystical ice lingam of Lord Shiva at Amarnath Cave is where millions of Hindu devotees throng to. The Shiv ling is formed from the natural stalagmite formation due to the freezing of water drops that trickle down from the roof of the cave on to the floor beneath. It then rises vertically from the floor and waxes and wanes with the moon. Legend has it that this is the very cave where Lord Shiva had shared the secret of life and eternity to his divine consort, Parvati.

Visiting this very cave will not just let you enjoy the scenic view of snow-capped mountains but will also take you closer to spirituality.

amarnath cave 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: May to September Nearest Airport:  Srinagar Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station

12. Columnar Basaltic Lava, St. Mary’s Islands

You might mistake them to be regular rocks by the sea but these are the ones that were formed by a volcano. Do have a visit to Coconut Island, St Mary’s island to witness this strange marvel. When a volcano explodes, dense viscid basaltic lava is hurled out which cools quickly. It contracts in a manner that a sequence of spider web-like cracks develop in it.

These cracks take the form of hexagons and polygons. As the lava congeals into rock, what is left back in the columns of the rock, making it appear as if it were shaped by human hands.

Columnar Basaltic lava 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: October to January Nearest Airport:  Mangalore Airport ( 60Kms away) Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore Central Railway Station

13. Sambhar Lake

India’s largest inland salt lake, the Sambhar Salt Lake is another natural wonder of the country. It lies in the arid Thar Desert.

When desert areas usually desolate and barren, this water body in the middle of the desert is an exception. The lake is bowl-shaped and rings the historical Sambhar Lake Town situated south west of the city of Jaipur.

Legend has it that, Shakambhari Devi, the tutelary goddess of Chauhan Rajputs and the consort of Lord Shiva, had once turned a dense forest into a land of silver as a reward to the services done to her. The locals feared that greed would overcome people and hence, she later converted it into a lake.

Sambhar lake 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: October to March Nearest Airport:  Jaipur International Airport Nearest Railway Station: Sambhar Train Station

14. Hide and seek Beach, Orissa

Here are another beautiful geographical features of India, included in our list of 15 natural wonders of India. As the name suggests, this beach is notorious for appearing and disappearing. When you pay a visit to the Hide-and-seek Beach in Orissa, chances are it may or may not be there. Situated in Orissa, the Chandipur Beach is also referred to the Hide and Seek Beach due to its quality.

There are times when you get to see the water and other times in the same spot lies nothing but Casuarina trees and creeper sand dunes. The reason for this occurrence is that the sea water recedes around 5 km during low tide and reappears to the shore during high tide every day. This is a rare phenomenon not witnessed by many till date.

hide and seek chandipur beach 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: March to September Nearest Airport:  Kolkata Airport (204 Kms away) Nearest Railway Station: Balasore railway station (16 Kms away)

15. The Aleya Ghost Lights – Will-o’-the-wisp

Here is a spooky natural wonder added to our list of natural wonders of India. These scary Aleya Ghost Lights are found in the swamps of West Bengal. This unexplained and mysterious phenomenon makes it is a curious paranormal destination for travelers. Various gloomy and scary tales are narrated by local villagers, in evidence of the place’s haunted nature. These colorful glowing lights are another riddle of nature, still unsolved by human beings!

Aleya Lights 15 incredible natural wonders of india

Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Nearest Railway Station: Canning railway station

So those are the 15 incredible natural wonders of India, which will surely leave you enchanted and surprised! If you have already explored any of these wonders, do share with us your experience.

Happy reading!

Image Courtesy: flightfox.com flickr.com amazingindiablog.in Pinterest.com beautiful-jaipur.com navrangindia.blogspot.in inyminy.com

india natural tourist attractions

Vinodkumar Sankranthi

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india natural tourist attractions

Discover the unimaginable beauty of the Indian landscape by visiting these treasure troves where the wilderness holds answers to questions man has not yet learned to ask.

1. Valley Of Flowers, Uttarakhand

Can you imagine an expansive land covered in the vibrant hues of flowers? We see it only in fairy tales, isn't it? But to apprise you, India boasts a Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand which is next to heaven. Without question one of the most beautiful natural attractions in India, this ethereal valley is located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere. This nature-blessed place in India is blessed with medicinal herbs as well as different types of flora. According to local beliefs, the valley of flowers has a connection with Lord Hanuman which is why it is also spiritually significant for the natives.

Best time to visit Valley of Flowers: In July and September, the valley of flowers looks completely mind-blowing. While strolling around this valley, don't be surprised if you come across a musk deer, brown bear, snow leopard, or blue sheep.

2. Loktak Lake, Manipur

One of the largest lakes in northeastern India, Loktak Lake in Manipur is a must-see for anyone who loves the serenity and tranquil vibe of lakes. Located in the beautiful state of Manipur, it is reckoned as one of the best natural places in India. Visiting Loktak lake is one of the unique travel experiences for nature lovers since this one is the only floating lake in the entire world. It is the largest freshwater lake in India that is famous for floating Phumdis which draws a vivid picture of nature’s abundance and uniqueness.

Best Time to Visit Loktak Lake: November to May is the best time to savor the undeniable beauty of the lake.

3. Lonar Lake, Maharashtra

Located in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra, Lonar Lake, also known as Lonar Crater is the oldest meteorite crater in the world which also happens to be the largest basaltic rock crater. It has an average depth of 148 meters and is almost 1832 meters long. Reckoned as one of the most scenic natural tourist places in India, the unique ecosystem of the lake will make you rub your eyes in disbelief.

Best Time to Visit Lonar Lake: November to January is the best time to visit this place in India.

Also Read: 15 Amazing Facts About India That Will Leave You Surprised

4. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and glaciers, the Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is famous for breathtaking views along with sparkling and icy water that has curative properties. Named after the founder of Tibetan Buddhism - Guru Rinpoche, this pristine lake is considered to be sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. One of the virgin, less explored attractions of Sikkim, visiting Gurudongmar Lake is about exploring religious aspects, scenic beauty, and enduring treks all together at the same time. Discover the bewildering facts about this sanctified lake which sits beautifully at an altitude of 5425 m close to the Tibetan border.

Best Time to Visit Gurudongmar Lake: From November to June.

5. Snow Valley, Kashmir

How can we ignore Kashmir when talking about the best natural places in India? This natural paradise on earth is one of the best places for nature lovers in India. Lavishly sprawled between the Karakoram range and Pir Panjal range, Kashmir is an eternally beautiful place with far too many things to offer. From sightseeing to admiring its pristine beauty and participating in adventure activities, this place in India is an ultimate choice to bask in the lap of nature.

Best Time to Visit Kashmir: The best time to visit Kashmir is from October through February, as the valley is a visual delight in winter.

6. Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

India’s best nature places list would be incomplete without the mention of Yumthang Valley as nature is awe-inspiring in this valley. The tranquil vibe of the river, millions of flowers studded across the entire landscape, and of course the breathtaking vistas of mountains will make you skip your heartbeat. One of the best places for photography in India, you are sure to get a jaw-dropping backdrop for your pictures in this breathtakingly beautiful valley in Sikkim.

Best time to visit Yumthang Valley: One of the best natural tourist places in India, you gotta visit anytime between February and March to capture the best view of the place.

Also Read: Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences In India That Stays Etched In Heart

7. Nubra Valley, Ladakh

This region occupies the northeastern part of Ladakh Valley and is often referred to as the Valley of Flowers. Nubra Valley in Ladakh is renowned for its majestic view of mountain ranges covered in snow, Bactrian camels, and sprawling orchards. Klosters, sand dunes, and an abandoned palace are among the top attractions of Nubra Valley which is considered one of the best natural places in india. From nature’s glory to camel safaris, a panoramic view of Panamik village, and a visit to Samstanling Monastery, traveling to Nubra Valley is indeed a memorable experience.

Best Time to Visit Nubra Valley: Visiting the valley is most enjoyable between June and August. Don't forget to bring a camera with you as the valley has plenty to capture.

8. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Can you imagine Switzerland in India or even better than its beauty? You must visit Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh which is a surrogate of Switzerland to believe me. India's mini Switzerland is not only famous for its scenic beauty but is among the list of top 10 nature places in India. Apart from offering gorgeous views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, Khajjiar is a popular destination for tourists due to its expansive meadows and abundant forest. Major attractions of Khajjiar include the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary and Dal Lake.

Best Time to Visit Khajjiar: Visiting India's mini Switzerland is best from March to October.

9. Dudhsagar Falls, Goa

For all those people who love waterfalls, Dudhsagar Falls in Goa will leave you in awe. This waterfall in India is unmissable if you want to witness the glory of nature. Cascading beautifully in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary of Goa, this four-tiered waterfall is a paradise for nature lovers. No surprise that hikers and trekkers bookmark it as their favorites as reaching the site of this enchanting fall requires some special skills. Covered by deciduous forest, the area is also heaven for spotting a variety of wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Dudhsagar Fall: It is best to visit this wonder between mid-November and mid-February.

10. Shillong, Meghalaya  

Did you know India hosts its own Cherry Blossom festival every year? An enormous number of tourists flock to the event from different corners of the world. This place in the Northeast is among the top recommendations when it comes to natural tourist places in India. Epithet as the Scotland of the East, the capital city of Meghalaya is a perfect blend of old-world charm and fresh essence. Rolling hills, verdant meadows, grabbing waterfalls, enchanting landscapes, stunning museums, Shillong is undoubtedly one of the best nature places in India.

Best Time to Visit Shillong: The festival takes place in mid-November during the fall season which is considered to be a great time to enjoy various events, such as concerts, fashion shows, and martial arts performances along with stunning views of Cherry Blossoms.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Nature Places in India

Ques 1. Which are the best nature places in India?

Ans 1. India is a country blessed with diverse landscapes and places replete with nature’s choicest marvels. Some of the best nature places worth exploring in India are Coorg, Shillong, Goa, Khajjiar, Nubra Valley, and more.

Ques 2. Which is the No. 1 nature place in India?

Ans 2. Kashmir undoubtedly takes the top position as number 1 nature place in the country.

Ques 3. Which is the best attraction in Shillong?

Ans 3. Cherry Blossom Festival is the best attraction when visiting Shillong. The whole city comes alive with hues and shades of pink and red when Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom.

Ques 4. Why is Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh famous?

Ans 4. Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh is also known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India.’ Rolling meadows, deep valleys, soaring mountains, swaying trees, and more has added to the serenity and beauty of this place.

Do share your travel stories with us in the comment section and let us know about some more beautiful nature places in India. Adotrip can help you with flight tickets, hotels, and tour packages to help you plan the perfect vacation. To be a smart traveler, you must choose the right travel partner!

--- Published By  Shradha Mehra

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  • 11 of the Most Amazing Natural Wonders that Exist in India

india natural tourist attractions

India is an interesting travel destination and comprised of many wonderful tourist attractions that can add charm to your travel experiences. Magnetic hill, floating island, vanishing beach and more are some fascinating things about this country that come under natural wonders. If you love to explore such things, you won’t need to travel much far as  many holiday destinations in India  can satisfy your desire. To explore these awe-inspiring things, enjoy the beauty and splendor of these natural wonders in India.

Dudhsagar Falls, Goa

india natural tourist attractions

This four-tiered waterfall is located on the Mandovi River between the border of states of Goa and Karnataka. The waterfall is amongst the tallest waterfall of India enjoying a height of 310 meters with an average width of 100 feet. As the name suggests, the waterfall really resembles to the sea of milk creating a marvelous view. No wonder, it is one of the topmost natural wonders of India.

Sparkling Marble Rock Gorges, Madhya Pradesh

india natural tourist attractions

The unremarkable town of Madhya Pradesh – Jabalpur features one of the natural wonders of India. Yes the stunning marble rock gorges are one of the natural marvels of India. Narmada River in Jabalpur narrows to a measurement of 10 meters before carving through mountains of white marble. This natural phenomenon has formed an astounding 3 km long gorge that sparkles during the day. It creates a mesmerizing view at night. You can enjoy a boat ride to indulge into the beauty of this destination.

Floating Island on Loktak Lake, Manipur

india natural tourist attractions

It is really fascinating that a piece of land is floating over the water. If not straight from a fairy tale, it is not also a customary thing. Being home to the largest freshwater lake of Northeast India - Loktak Lake, Manipur is a popular travel destination. This splendid water body features round floating swamps, which are surely unique that make it one of the major natural wonders of India. You will come across many fishermen and more than 200 species of plants, 100 variety of birds and 500 different species of animals. Visiting the world’s only floating island in India is fun.

Magnetic Hill, Leh

india natural tourist attractions

Each corner of Ladakh drops out a magic and mystery. However, the Magnetic Hill of Leh is considerably foremost of all. Also known as Gravity Hill, this unusual hill is located right on the Srinagar-Leh highway. The most exclusive aspect of this hill is that if you park your car in the said area on the road while going uphill, the car slowly starts moving uphill despite turning off the engine and keeping the vehicle in neutral. Many claim it to be an optical illusion but don’t go with that and experience this thrill.

Aleya Ghost Lights, Sundarbans

india natural tourist attractions

If you can handle something paranormal, then Aleya ghost lights in Sundarbans of West Bengal is a place to see for you. It will surely spark your imagination. One can see the gleaming colorful lights at a distance in the swamps of Bengal. But people are asked to not approach them as these draw them who do so. Scientists consider it to be the ionization of methane or geological faults (although not sure). As per the local believes, these are the spirits of fishermen died in the marshes.

Sparkling Salt Deserts of Kutch, Gujarat

india natural tourist attractions

Imagine a scintillating white carpet stretching into the horizon from all around. The salt desert of India — the great Rann of Kutch is the one of its kinds in the world. This unique land mass is a salty swamp where Flamingos flock during the breeding season. Located 10 km away from the Arabian Sea, the Rann of Kutch is soaked in sea water during monsoon season. Once the water reduces, it leaves behind white crystals of raw salt. Visit the place in winters and see the miles of salt fields.

The Meteoric Lonar Lake, Maharashtra

india natural tourist attractions

Lonar Lake was created due to the arrival of a meteor from space that crashed into the earth and created this lake. This basalt rock formation, which beautifully evolved into a serene green lake over the years, is located in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra. Science buffs are ecstatic to know that this water body is alkaline as well as saline. Incredibly, the water of this lake supports micro-organisms rarely found anywhere else on earth.

Chandipur Beach, Odisha

india natural tourist attractions

Also known as Hide and Seek Beach, Chandipur Beach is the perfect example of nature playing peek-a-boo. The  mysterious Chandipur Beach of Odisha literally disappears  for some length during low tide and reappears magically a few hours later. This exclusive feature of Chandipur Beach makes it home to unique variety of flora and fauna. Walking through this beach is an awesome experience.

Amarnath Cave, Jammu & Kashmir

india natural tourist attractions

Situated at an altitude of 3, 888 meters, Amarnath Cave is one of the holiest shrines of Hinduism. The place is recognized for the ice stalagmite, which resembles to the Shiva Ling. It amazingly grows and shrinks with the phases of the moon and takes its complete shape in summers. A huge number of devotees come to this place for the holy visit of this religious shrine.

Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya

india natural tourist attractions

Created from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree, Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunji are unique kind of bridge in Indian state of Meghalaya. This living root bridge is formed across a stream by allowing the roots to grow and strengthen over time until it may hold the weight of a human being. This is a true natural marvel.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

india natural tourist attractions

One of the most amazing natural wonders of India, Valley of Flowers is a true natural wonder. Famous for the gorgeous meadows of widespread alpine flowers, a range of flora and incredible landscape, this wonderful place turns into a must visit place for all nature lovers. There are  numerous reasons to visit Valley of Flowers National Park,  which also features some of the rare and endangered species of animals and birds.

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Travel To Your Nature - world travel tips, adventure guides, bucket-list nature destinations

Travel To Your Nature

Nature Adventure Guides And World Travel Tips

12 STUNNING NATURE DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN SOUTH INDIA (2023)

August 27, 2023 | Raihne Cosmopoulos Asia + Destinations + India

Are you looking to explore the natural beauty of South India? This guide will cover the most beautiful South India nature destinations to visit on your trip.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commision if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

fairytale nature destinations of South India

If you are a nature lover who loves to explore the natural beauty of a country, you may be wondering where the best places are to visit in South India.

Travelling South India was one of my favourite trips I took during my 2 years of living in India. With so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be quite confusing knowing which places to put at the top of your list.

But in this post, I have put together a list of the 12 most breathtaking nature destinations in South India to choose from when planning your trip.

SOUTH INDIA NATURE DESTINATIONS

South India nature destinations with a sunrise over the valley

South India is everything that you would imagine a fairytale world to look like.

It is known for its rich biodiversity and the stunning mountain range of the Western Ghats. You can find everything from relaxing boat rides along the Kerala backwaters to lush green rolling hills, spectacular mountain formations, romantic nature getaways and adventurous treks.

Exploring South India is perfect for any nature enthusiast who loves unique landscapes and scenic views that take your breath away.

A side note: There are many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in South India, especially in Kerala. I urge you to do extensive research on the parks before visiting them for the wildlife experiences. Many of these sanctuaries claim to be ethical. But they offer elephant rides and close encounters that stress the animals out. Some places have even been reported to chain elephants to trees to ensure tourists see them. These parks should not be supported. And such behaviour should always be reported to authorities. I will only list wildlife parks or sanctuaries that I know for sure are 100% ethical and honour the values of eco-tourism.

1. South Goa

sunsets on the palm tree covered beaches of South India

South Goa is the essence of a tropical paradise. With the idyllic beaches, palm tree covered coastlines and exotic surroundings, South Goa is an absolute dream for any beach lover.

You will find some of the most pristine beaches all along this region of India. There are around 20 amazing beaches to visit. And honestly, you cannot go wrong with any of them. But I highly recommend the following beaches as must-see destinations:

  • Cabo De Rama – palm tree scenery and all the tropical vibes
  • Palolem – honeymoon experience and divine sunsets
  • Agonda Beach – relaxing atmosphere and pristine beach
  • Cola Beach – turquoise beach and blue lagoon to kayak and swim in calm waters
  • Colva Beach – endless scenic coastline and adventurous watersports

The best time to visit South Goa is between mid-November and mid-February. Visiting during these months is ideal for swimming and going on adventures. The temperatures are perfect for your beach vacation. If you visit after February, be prepared for very high temperatures that could leave you feeling too tired to fully embrace your trip.

If you love being surrounded by vast stretches of ocean, swaying palm trees and romantic sunsets, then South Goa is the best place for you to be.

2. MUNNAR, KERALA (One of the best nature destinations of SOuth India!)

lush green rolling hills of Munnar, India

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala is the ultimate fairytale land of Munnar. The lush green rolling hills, misty-covered mountains and picturesque vistas gives you a unique experience of how truly diverse the nature of India can be.

With so much beauty to explore here, these are my top recommendations of what to do in Munnar:

  • Echo Point – stunning lake surrounded by forest landscapes, a natural resonance of your voice against the distant hills
  • Tree House Stay – bamboo tree houses for a quiet getaway in the valley
  • Kolukkumalai Tea Estate – a meandering path through the serene tea plantations
  • Visit and picnic at the waterfalls – Lakkam waterfalls, Attukal waterfalls and Thoovanam falls
  • Lakshmi Hills – trekking to the most amazing panoramic views of the Western Ghats and rolling hills
  • Pothamedu Viewpoint – easily accessible panoramic views of Munnar’s lush landscapes
  • Cheeyappara Waterfalls – trek to a majestic 7-step cascading waterfall
  • Eravikulam National Park – wildlife safari, famous for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr

The best time to visit Munnar is after rainy season, between October and March.

It is really easy to navigate around Munnar. Which makes accessing the most beautiful views possible for all travellers. My favourite way to explore Munnar was by scooter. There was no better feeling than riding along the winding roads while I admired the nature perfection that surrounded me.

Out of all the nature destinations of South India, Munnar is the number one place that I would recommend to anyone visiting India for its natural beauty! You just cannot help but be whisked away by its romantic and scenic charm.

3. THE KERALA BACKWATERS

traditional boats on the tropical backwaters of Kerala

The captivating scenery of the Kerala backwaters consists of a serene network of meandering lagoons, canals and rivers. These beautiful waters are decorated with palm trees, coconut groves and authentic villages along the fringes.

The backwaters are a perfect combination of natural beauty and culture.

Cruising through the canals on a traditional houseboat, known as a “Kettuvallam”, is a tranquil escape into nature and a beautiful way to see everything these landscapes have to offer you.

There are a number of appealing backwaters destinations, some of the most unique ones to explore are:

  • Alleppey Backwaters – houseboat cruises with a natural and cultural experience
  • Kuttanad Backwaters – the most ravishing lush abundance of palm trees along the canals
  • Trivandrum Backwaters – enchanting scenery and tropical vegetation
  • Kochi Backwaters – explore several islands scattered along these backwaters
  • Kumarakom Backwaters – panoramic views, boating and fishing, as well as luxury resorts

The best season to visit Kerala is from October to February. This is when the temperatures are much more pleasant than the scorching hot summer months.

The Kerala backwaters will surely leave you feeling completely relaxed and reenergized by its peaceful atmosphere.

4. WAYANAD, KERALA

green rolling hills of Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad is one of the most alluring places to experience the vast beauty of the Western Ghats. It is a true natural wonder with rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, deep valley jungles and magnificent mountain views.

The abundance of wildlife and rich biodiversity makes Wayanad a sanctuary for all life to co-exist and thrive.

Whether you love full on adventures or simply enjoying enamouring views, Wayanad is a nature destination in South India for all kinds of nature seekers.

Here are some of the best nature experiences of Wayanad:

  • Banasura Sagar Dam – Asia’s second largest dam, trekking, boating
  • Edakkal Caves – natural Stone Age caves with ancient pictorial paintings
  • Neelimala Viewpoint – stunning views of the misty mountains and forest scenery
  • Chembra Peak and Valley of Clouds – trekking, a heart shaped like and lush green valley views
  • Ziplining – a thrilling adventure through the hills
  • Soochipara Falls – swim in crystal clear waters
  • Kabini River – river swims, camping, if you are lucky you can see Asian elephants at the reservoir during summer
  • Kuruva Island – bamboo river rafting
  • Kalladi Forest – a beautiful walk/hike through enchanting forests and hills

The most ideal time to visit Wayanad is between November and February. The weather is mostly pleasant and comfortable around this time.

Wayanad is the essence of being in the heart of nature. It will for sure be one of the most memorable places you visit on your trip through South India.

5. IDUKKI, KERALA

india natural tourist attractions

Idukki is a beautiful haven for nature lovers to connect with the natural world. With the abundance of wildlife, rich green tea plantations and forest covered hills, Idukki is the perfect place to embrace the serenity of nature.

Idukki is only a one-hour drive from Munnar. So it is easy to visit both on your trip through South India. Even though the landscapes are similar, there are quite a few special things to see in Idukki:

  • Calvary Mount – gorgeous lake views with unique landscapes
  • Ilaveezha Poonchira – trekking, stunning sunsets and sunrise views across the valley
  • Thommankuthu Waterfalls – a mesmerising 7-step cascade
  • Ramakkalmedu – a 4km trek to a beautiful valley view
  • Keezharkuthu Falls – the water falls from 1500m creating an enchanting cascade, also great for rock climbing and mountaineering
  • Gavi – an authentic village tucked away in the green hills and tropical forests, boat rides, bird watching, camping
  • Nadukani – panoramic views of Idukki, its surrounding mountains and the Muvattupuzha River
  • Anakarra Falls – a quaint village with mystical falls and trekking

The best time to visit Idukki is between October and March, once the rainy season is over and the temperatures are more comfortable to explore in.

If you love peace, serenity and tranquillity, then Idukki is a wonderland of nature to explore on your travels through India.

6. VARKALA, KERALA

palm tree coastline of Varkala, India

Varkala is where the crystal waters of the Arabian Sea meets dramatic coastal cliffs. The beauty of this coastline is highlighted against the blue skies and magical sunsets.

Walking along the cliffside path offers you a full view of the vast ocean and palm tree fringed coastline.

Besides swimming in the turquoise waters of Varkala Beach, here are some other places to visit while you are there:

  • Ponnumthuruthu Island – the perfect getaway to an island encircled by the Anjengo Backwaters
  • Thiruvambady Beach – a black sand beach away from any noise, just peace and quiet to relax amongst the palm trees
  • Odayum Beach – a paradise of golden sand and clear waters
  • Kappil Beach and Lake – a picturesque tropical beach-backwater scenery

Varkala has a tropical climate so it is best to visit during the winter months of October to March.

Varkala is a wonderfully unique experience where you can relax quietly in the natural beauty of Kerala’s Southern Coastline.

7. KODAIKANAL & VATTAKANAL, tAMIL NADU

Western Ghats mountain nature destinations in South India

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live in the clouds, then Kodaikanal is the perfect misty wonderland for you!

In the heart of the Western Ghats is the mystical landscapes of Kodaikanal and Vattakanal. This is a true gem when it comes to exploring the most beautiful nature destinations in South India.

There is an abundance of breathtaking viewpoints to truly appreciate the beauty of this land and everything it has to offer you. I will never forget breathing in the fresh mountain air, admiring the green hills and trekking around the winding paths decorated with wildflowers. Not to mention, the sunrises are absolutely spectacular from Vattakanal.

Some of the most amazing activities to do that really capture the essence of this region are:

  • Kodaikanal Lake – even though it is a man-made lake, you can enjoy the natural surroundings of the lake by boat
  • Coaker’s Walk – a plaza walkway along the mountain side over-looking the hills and rivers
  • Vattakanal Falls – an ethereal waterfall in the enchanting forest
  • Dolphin Nose – just a 30-minute hike down to a protruding rock from which to admire the deep valley and vibrant fauna
  • Echo Point – a view into the distant valleys as far as your eyes can see
  • Pillar Rocks – impressive mountain pillars towering over the valley, camping, star-gazing
  • Pine Forest Walks – a beautiful forest landscape to wander through, especially mysterious when the mist whisps through the trees
  • Thailayar Falls – a deep valley waterfall in the heart of the hills
  • Perumal Peak – a hike through the majestic Western Ghats for awe-spiring views from the highest peak of the hills
  • Palani Hills Trek – the best hike to fully experience the wilderness of Kodaikanal

The best time to visit is during the winter months between October and March.

I highly recommend staying in Vattakanal when you visit here. It is a small, intimate village surrounded by nature and quaint guest houses.

8. HAMPI, KARNATAKA

Boulder covered hills of Hampi

Hampi is one of the most beautiful destinations in all of India. Where ancient heritage harmoniously blends with the ethereal nature that surrounds it.

You will be transported back in time as you wonder through this World Heritage Site of impressive ruins, beautiful temples and boulder-strewn hills. Hampi is a treasure of South India for all nature and history enthusiasts.

Even though it is known for the intricate historical architecture, and you should definitely take time exploring the temples and ruins, there is a whole natural world to explore here too:

  • Climb Hampi’s giant boulders – rock climbing for the adventurous spirit
  • Visit the Hippie Island – stay in a hut, bicycle rides to admire the beauty, sunset points
  • Mantaga Hill – the best viewpoint in Hampi to see the entire hilly landscape dotted with boulders
  • Anjaneya Hill – a village just a little bit outside of Hampi with lots of monkeys and breathtaking views
  • Cliff Jumping – jumping off the cliffs at Sanapur Lake
  • Rice Paddies – ride a scooter or bicycle around Hamp to see the lush green rice fields
  • Bamboo Basket Boat Ride – circular bamboo boats on Sanapur Lake

The best time to visit Hampi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and not too hot for adventuring.

Between its high spiritual energy and unique natural beauty, Hampi is truly a world wonder to embrace.

9. COORG, KARNATAKA

Known as the “Scotland Of India”, Coorg gives you the feels of stepping into an enchanted wonderland.

With its cascading waterfalls, misty hills and emerald-green valleys as far as the eye can see, Coorg is one of the nature destinations in South India you do not want to miss.

Amazing nature activities to do in Coorg:

  • Abby Falls – a glistening waterfall between the coffee and spice plantations
  • HannamanaKere Lake – surrounded by mountains and lush plantations
  • Kotebetta Trek – incredible views of the vast green valley
  • Mallalli Falls – easily accessible trek to the majestic falls situated in the verdant hills
  • Mandalpatti Trek – one of the best treks in Coorg to witness the lush mountains of the Western Ghats and forest covered hills
  • Raja’s Seat – spectacular viewpoint of the entire valley
  • Somwarpet – a tranquil lake amidst the green scenery
  • Tadiandamol Trek – another beautiful trek that takes you up the second highest mountain in Karnataka for the inspiring views of Coorg’s natural beauty
  • Karada Village – an authentic village experience where you can relax in the embrace of nature
  • Waterfall Repelling – Chelavara Waterfalls

Visting Coorg during October and February is the best time for outdoor activities. But towards the end of March, the land is abundant in beautiful white blossoming flowers.

Coorg is the perfect place for the adventure seekers and those who love to relax in nature’s embrace. Not to mention a photographer’s heaven!

10. SHIVAMOGGA, KARNATAKA (Shimoga)

majestic waterfall  and green nature of South India

Deep valley waterfalls, towering coconut plantations, beautiful rice fields, exquisite mountain views, dense jungles and the graceful Tunga River. What more could a nature lover ask for?

Shivamogga is a picturesque landscape rich in beauty and culture. You can feel the majestic energy of the powerful falls from the stunning viewpoint. Making this one of the top nature destinations for travellers in South India.

Some of the most memorable nature places to visit in Shivamogga are:

  • Jog Falls – the second tallest waterfalls in India
  • Honnemaradu – an authentic village vibe, pristine nature, kayaking, hiking, coracle boat ride
  • Kodachadri Trek – captivating views of the Western Ghats and rolling hills
  • Dabbe Falls – trek to this hidden gem of Shivamogga, a perfect escape into nature
  • Agumbe – a village nestled in the dense forest landscapes, beautiful waterfall, unmissable sunset views
  • Onake Abbi Falls – a 5km trek through rich fauna and flora, the summit of the trek offers a unique view of the falls from a height of 500 feet

The best time to visit Shivamogga is in winter, October to March. Although, the waterfalls flow much heavier during the monsoon season, July to September. Visiting during monsoon season may restrict your ability do some of the nature adventures.

Shivamogga is the ultimate paradise for those who love chasing waterfalls and appreciate the untouched beauty of nature.

11. GOKARNA, KARNATAKA

aerial view of a palm tree beach

Gokarna is a paradise vacation away from busyness of everyday life. Along the coastline of South Western India is the small town of Gokarna, surrounded by rocky shores, tropical flora and verdant hills.

The warm ocean temperatures and tranquil atmosphere of Gokarna is the perfect combination to relax and revitalize on your trip.

Just like Hampi, there is a blend of spirituality and natural beauty that captivates all its visitors. You can fully immerse yourself in the divinity of nature and mystical essence of ancient temples.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Gokarna:

  • Om Beach – relaxation, adventure, amazing for photography, rocky trails, dolphin spotting, fishing, trekking, banana boat rides
  • Gokarna Beach – surfing, snorkelling, jet-skiing, the beach is more pristine closer towards the River Gangavalli, you can also walk to other scenic beaches from here
  • Beach Camping – enjoy the sunsets and star-gazing
  • Night Walks – if you are lucky, you can see phytoplankton
  • Kudle Beach – beautiful spot to watch sunset
  • Road Trip – riding through the roads of Gokarna will offer panoramic views of the landscapes
  • Yana – very impressive caves to explore, formed by a volcanic explosion, rich greenery, trekking
  • Dandeli Forest Camp – a wild adventure into the forest, walking trails, bird watching
  • Catamaran Boat Rides – experience the turquoise waters of the ocean
  • Half Moon Beach – reached by trek, blue ocean with a lush forest backdrop, camping
  • Paradise Beach – also reached by trek, one of the most beautiful beaches in Gokarna

The most pleasant time to visit Gokarna is between October and March.

Between the adrenaline adventures, magical sunsets, spiritual energy and exotic nature scenery, Gokarna is a destination of pure bliss to experience.

12. ARAKU VALLEY, ANDHRA PRADESH

valley view of the eastern ghats mountains

Nestled in the Eastern Ghats of South India is Araku Valley. The vibrant colours of the rolling hills, high mountains and misty mornings invites travellers into the embrace of this radiant valley. The abundance of coffee plantations and blooming flowers add to the beauty of these landscapes.

Be sure to visit the following nature spots in Araku Valley:

  • Ananthagiri Hills – a bird’s eye view of the infinite valley, visit the waterfalls
  • Borra Caves – limestone caves, the biggest caves in the country
  • Galikonda View Points – Galikonda is the second highest mountain in the Eastern Ghats, memorable view points
  • Tyda Park – a wilderness adventure, some wildlife roams freely here
  • Katiki Waterfalls – nearby Bora Caves, a majestic waterfall encircled by the jungle

September to March is the best time to visit Araku Valley. Although March being less busy compared to the other months.

I would definitely recommend only visiting here if you have extra time for exploring a number of nature destinations in South India.

Araku Valley is off the beaten path, a treasure of South India that is yet to be explored by many people.

You will experience a wilderness of adventure and tranquillity in South India that is different to the dramatic landscapes of the North. I hope that this post has inspired you to explore the most enchanting and exotic nature destinations of South India.

best nature destinations of South India, Kerala Backwaters

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Which south indian state is the most beautiful.

The most beautiful nature state in South India is Kerala. Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country”. The natural beauty of Kerala is mesmerizingly endless with abundant landscapes that feel like a fairytale dream to explore. Kerala is one of the most popular states for tourists in India and offers something special for all kinds of nature travellers.

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The 22 best things to do in India

Lakshmi Sharath

Dec 17, 2023 • 22 min read

india natural tourist attractions

From photographing the iconic Taj Mahal to soaking up riverside life in Varanasi, here are the best things to do in India © Hitesh Makwana / EyeEm / Getty Images

There are many Indias within India . This land of ancient temples and opulent palaces, forgotten cities and lost traditions, spice markets and spicy food is almost a world unto itself. For many travelers, a visit here is the trip of a lifetime.

Such expectations can make it hard to decide what experiences you should prioritize, and that's exactly why we’ve created this list of the best things to do in India. When planning an extensive India itinerary, keep the following stops in mind.

1. Experience Varanasi at dawn

The best way to experience the timelessness of Varanasi , one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, is to start just before dawn breaks. At Assi Ghat , the devotional Ganga Aarti ceremony performed on the banks of the Ganges will mesmerize as participants intone rhythmic chants and hymns on the steps that descend to the holy river.

Next, take to the water in a small boat, watching the sun rise as life slowly starts to stir along the river. Suddenly, there will be a burst of activity as saffron-clad sadhus (holy men), vendors, devotees and tourists begin performing rituals, including yoga and ritual singing. A boat ride along the Ganges will pass the main Dashashwamedh Ghat toward Manikarnika Ghat , where funeral pyres burn as the dead are cremated. In Varanasi, death is a way of life.

Planning tip: We recommend a visit to an  akhara (wrestling center) to see wrestlers practice their traditional sport in a mud pit in the early morning light. End your tour with some soulful food: a typical Varanasi breakfast of kachoris (deep-fried pastries) stuffed with lentils and served with spicy potato gravy. Finish the meal on a sweet note with melt-in-mouth jalebis (fried whorls of dough).

A woman in traditional Indian dress smiles as she rides in a boat towards the epic white marble Taj Mahal

2. Set your eyes – and lens – on the iconic Taj Mahal

The iconic, romantic symbol pictured on every India travel brochure, the Taj Mahal in Agra really is a reliable highlight of any trip here. Despite incessant tourist crowds, you can't help but gaze in wonder at this marbled mausoleum built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz.

While it’s hard to get a bad shot of the Taj, the most vivid photos are usually taken at sunrise and sunset from Mehtab Bagh , the Mughal garden across the Yamuna River. Arrive just before dawn and watch the colors change on this sublime monument dedicated to eternal love. Over the course of a day, the sun paints the marble in different hues, transforming the dome from pale pink at sunrise to orange at sunset.

Pay a visit to the eye-catching tomb of Itimad-Ud-Daulah – a precursor to the Taj Mahal, constructed in the 1620s and dubbed the “Baby Taj” – created for Mumtaz’s grandfather, Mirza Ghiyas Beg by his daughter, Nur Jahan.

Planning tip: Special tickets are sold for visits on an evening with a full moon. They can be bought in person 24 hours in advance at the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) offices on Mall Road, and you will need to bring your passport as ID.

3. Demystify the Kama Sutra story behind Khajuraho

As you stand in front of erotic sculptures of figures locked in improbable positions at Khajuraho , you can almost feel the passion. Perhaps no other heritage destination evokes as much wonder and curiosity as these famous temples, built nearly 1000 years ago. And yet guides will painstakingly tell you that barely a tenth of the master carvings in the 22 temples that have been excavated here are dedicated to the Kama Sutra .

As you immerse yourself in these three-dimensional narratives, you can decide for yourself why the Chandela, an ancient Rajput clan, chose to depict eroticism on the walls of their temples, which are dedicated to both Hindu and Jain deities. Be sure not to miss one of India’s oldest surviving Tantric temples, dedicated to the Chausath Yogini – the 64 Tantric goddesses. The cells may be bereft of the idols, yet the architecture, in ruins, is fascinating.

Planning tip: You will need a day to explore all of Khajuraho’s temples; start as early as possible to capture the dawn light in your photos, or come in the afternoon when the warm sunlight makes for evocative shadows.

4. Explore the world’s largest mangrove forests in the Sundarbans

The wild and remote biodiversity hotspot of Sundarbans National Park is where three mighty rivers – the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna – join the Bay of Bengal. A maze of mangrove forests, swamps and mudflats, riverine islands and numerous canals that you can explore by boat, the Sundarbans is perhaps most famous for its population of Bengal tigers that roam its brackish channels.

With its serpentine network of roots, the dark and dense undergrowth provides hiding spots for crocodiles, snakes and other predators. Look out for the different varieties of kingfishers, raptors and water birds from observation towers that give you a bird’s-eye view of the swamps. Village walks are possible on a handful of islands and resilient locals will tell you harrowing tales of living amid devastating cyclones and treacherous wildlife in this delicate and unforgettable ecosystem.

5. Camp under the stars in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan

With an entire galaxy to keep you entertained for the night, sleeping among the wavy, undulating sand dunes of Rajasthan ’s Thar Desert is something that stays with you forever. Near Jaisalmer , a number of desert camps are pitched across the windswept Sam Sand Dunes , which rise to more than 50m (164ft) in height and create magical mirages before your eyes. Go on a camel safari along with a caravan to experience the sunset as you’ve never seen it.

Planning tip: In town, take an unmissable wander through the old temples and colorful markets of majestic Jaisalmer Fort , which 5000 people still call home. If you’re fascinated by the supernatural, head southwest of the walled city to the abandoned ghost town of Kuldhara  – it's said to be haunted, especially after dark.

Pilgrims lining walkway across the water from the Golden Temple, a grand square building with a gold facade

6. Feel the presence of the divine at the Golden Temple, Amritsar

The best time to experience Amritsar ’s sublime Golden Temple is at 4am (5am in winter) when the revered scripture of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib, is installed inside the temple for the day amid the hum of ritual chanting. With the moon still shining, the entire complex is lit up as the shimmering gold of the dome reflects in the surrounding pond, Amrit Sarovar (the Reservoir of Nectar).

Hospitality and charity are key values for Sikhs, and this famous gurdwara (place of worship) is open to anyone of any faith. The incredible community kitchen known as the Guru-Ka-Langar offers simple, vegetarian meals throughout the day for up to 100,000 devotees (meals are free but a donation is appropriate).

7. Cruise the Kerala backwaters

A maze of small canals, brackish lagoons, silent rivers and still rivulets interconnected with the Arabian Sea, the backwaters of Kerala offer a completely different view of India for travelers and a lifeline of farming and fishing for locals. You can choose your own adventure as you make your way through this tangle of channels and lakes.

During an overnight cruise on a kettuvallam (houseboat), you can pass the hours by fishing, visiting small villages, bird watching or sitting back and watching the world go slowly by.

Planning tip: Many cruise itineraries start in Alappuzha , to the south of Kochi , but the quality of houseboats varies significantly – your best bet is to head to the dock and view a selection of houseboats one or two days in advance. If you’re booking online using an aggregator such as Booking.com , be sure to read plenty of reviews before you book.

8. Visit the ancient monasteries of Ladakh

Touching the high Himalayas, the mountain valleys of Ladakh leave people breathless – both figuratively and literally. You’ll need time to acclimatize in this state that was once a Buddhist kingdom, with stark and vivid landscapes that sit between 3000–6000m (9842–19,685ft) above sea level.

Dotted with snow-clad mountains, icy glaciers, wild meadows, and valleys in the lowlands, plus rivers and high-altitude lakes that change color depending on the light, the region is a natural playground for hikers , bikers and adventure enthusiasts. In winter, travelers come here for expeditions to seek snow leopards and treks along the frozen Zanskar River.

Chortens (Tibetan Buddhist stupas) and gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) are scattered across this cold desert and visiting these sacred sites will help you learn more about the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. The region’s oldest monastery is at Alchi, though Thiksey , Stok , and Hemis gompas, closer to the capital Leh , are the most popular stops for visitors.

Planning tip: Don’t miss views of Ladakh’s moonscapes from Lamayuru Monastery , a convenient stop when traveling west from Leh to Srinagar in Kashmir . Remember to cover your shoulders and legs while visiting the monastery, and observe the ban on photography within the premises.

9. Spend a day at Raghurajpur Arts and Crafts Village in Odisha

Located near the temple town of Puri in Odisha , the colorful Raghurajpur Arts and Crafts Village is a living gallery maintained by local chitrakaars (folk artists). The village showcases the traditional art of pata chitra painting, paying tribute to the triad deities from the Puri Jagannath Temple . Each canvas is specially prepared with layers of cotton cloth, and tribal motifs, folk stories, myths and legends are the subjects of the artworks. Expect the artists here to invite you into their homes to see the murals that cover the walls.

As well as pata chitra , you can see tussar silk paintings, toys and palm-leaf engravings. You can also see live demonstrations or try your hand at creating your own piece of art. Try to see a traditional performance of the Gotipua dance; young men from the community can be seen practicing at local gurukul (dance academies).

Beautiful columns at the ruins of the Vittala Temple in Hampi, Karnataka, India

10. Explore the ruins of Hampi

If the ruins of Hampi could speak, they would tell a glorious tale of a powerful and prosperous kingdom whose rulers built magnificent temples, palaces and monuments, traded precious stones in vast bazaars, and contributed immensely to the art, architecture, culture and literature of India. Founded 600 years ago by two brothers, working under the guidance of their spiritual guru, Sri Vidyaranya, Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, which ruled the Deccan Plateau of South India for centuries.

The site sprawls for miles, centered on several important groups of monuments, including the Royal Enclosure and the Temple Trail. The still-active Virupaksha Temple is the nucleus of spiritual activity at Hampi, but the most striking structure is the Vittala Temple , an architectural marvel featuring an elaborately carved stone chariot that is illustrated on India’s 50-rupee note.

Planning tip: Allow at least three to four days to fully explore this special place. The center of Hampi can be explored on foot; to explore surrounding areas, rent a bicycle or motorbike, or hire an auto-rickshaw on either side of the Tungabhadra River.

11. Explore Goa beyond the beaches

Goa is not just a destination; it’s a state of mind. The very name evokes images of sun, sand and sea, and while Goa’s beaches are the main attraction here (tip: opt for the less-crowded shores of South Goa ), the small state’s riverine islands, mangrove swamps, dense forests, and spice and cashew plantations are memorable and sensuous experiences in themselves.

Cruise the Zuari River and narrow canals bordered by mangroves at dawn to spot six varieties of kingfishers, among other water birds. In the inland forests, hidden temples reward hikers. For more nature, visit Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary with its mighty Dudhsagar Falls – especially post-monsoon, when they’re at full force.

12. Be dazzled by the Rann of Kachchh salt desert

Be sure to pack your sunglasses: the sparkling sodium chloride crystals of the White Rann, one of the world’s largest salt deserts, will literally dazzle you. The Rann of Kachchh (Kutch) in Gujarat is divided into the Greater and Lesser Rann (the White Rann is part of the former), a unique ecosystem in which shallow salt marshes are submerged during the monsoons. As they evaporate, the wetlands transform into an arid ocean of salt, a seasonal phenomenon seen only in winter, from October to March.

We recommend staying in Hodka or Dhordo, where resorts are composed of Kutchi (Kutch-style) bhungas – circular-walled thatched mud huts that offer a welcome respite from the harsh desert heat. While you’re in the area, head to the nearby ruins of the ancient Indus Valley civilization at Dholavira to the east, and the 18th-century Aaina Mahal Palace in Bhuj, to the southwest.

Planning tip: The landscape is especially mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset; evening visits during full-moon evenings are another treat. Gujarat Tourism hosts the annual Rann Ustav , a fascinating cultural festival that runs between November and February. Expect a flood of food and local handicraft stalls as well as Sufi and indigenous Kutchi folk music performances.

13. See larger-than-life sculptures at the Great Living Chola Temples

Located in Tamil Nadu , the 1200-year-old Great Living Chola Temples leave visitors both spellbound and humbled. These mighty monuments include Brihadeeshwara Temple in the southern city of Thanjavur , built by King Raja Raja Chola I in the 10th century. The soaring 63.4m-high (208ft) vimana (tower above the shrine) is one of the largest of any Hindu temple anywhere, hence its nickname, the Big Temple.

Raja Raja Chola I’s son, Rajendra Chola, ambitiously set out to create a bigger version of his father’s temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram , but for mysterious reasons never completed the complex. A century later, in a small town called Darasuram, the third temple was erected by Raja Raja Chola II. If the first two Brihadeshwara temples are larger-than-life marvels, the Airavateswarar Temple is an ode to mastery on a smaller scale and a tribute to the craftsmanship of the era. Each of the temples is dedicated primarily to Shiva, although carvings depict a pantheon of other Hindu deities.

Planning tip: You’ll need a day to explore all three temples, which are still in active use. It's best to visit either early in the morning or in the evenings.

14. Discover hidden treasures in the villages of Chettinadu

A cultural and colorful mosaic of arts, crafts, architecture, food and traditions, Chettinadu is a collection of 75 villages in Tamil Nadu that were once home to an affluent mercantile community called the Nagarathar Chettiars. The merchants grew rich off trading in jewelry and spices; when most of them left for better prospects elsewhere, they left behind their homes – a cultural reminder of their cosmopolitan community and the wealth they accumulated.

Aptly titled nattukottai (country forts), each home is a larger-than-life fortified palace; some cover more than 3700 sq meters (39,826 sq ft). Colorful facades feature arches, pillars, sculptures and friezes but it’s the interiors that truly amaze, with Belgian mirrors and chandeliers, Italian marble, Japanese artworks, Spanish tiles, Burmese teak and other luxurious components sourced from around the world.

Villages such as Karaikudi, Kanadukathan, Devakottai, Kothamangalam, Pallathur and Kottaiyur feature grand houses that are up to 200 years old. While most of them have been abandoned, a few have been converted into luxury hotels. A fusion of Art Deco, Dravidian and colonial architectural styles, these houses are fascinating to explore and some can be entered for a small fee.

A Bengal tiger with muddy paws sits on the edge of a mangrove forest

15. Look for India’s Big Five

On thrilling 4WD safaris through the dense forests of wildlife sanctuaries, you can look out for India’s Big Five : tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears and gaur (Indian bison). There are more than 100 national parks and tiger reserves spread across the country, including venerable Jim Corbett National Park ; Kanha , Bandhavgarh and Panna in Madhya Pradesh ; Pench and Tadoba-Andhari in Maharashtra; Ranthambore in Rajasthan; Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka ; Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu, and many, many more.

Farther afield, Kaziranga National Park in Assam provides sightings of the critically endangered one-horned rhinoceros, while elusive snow leopards populate Hemis National Park in Ladakh and Asiatic lions congregate in Gujarat’s Gir National Park . The Kabini Reservoir in Karnataka draws massive herds of elephants, especially in summer; bird watchers are also in for a delight as more than 1300 species are found here.

Planning tip: Throughout the country, early-morning safaris tend to be the most rewarding, although evening safaris bring magic light. Late summer is the best time for spotting wildlife, but many national parks are closed during the early-summer monsoon. Many parks offer elephant safaris, but these are not recommended as carrying passengers can be harmful to elephants.

16. Get a taste of “orthodox tea” country in Darjeeling

The quaint, verdant hill station of Darjeeling , West Bengal is an idyllic town, towered over by snow-capped Himalayan peaks, nestled amongst rolling hills of rhododendron and pines, and overflowing with tea plantations. Although Indian-style chai is readily available, this is “orthodox” tea country – the term refers to loose-leaf tea that’s brewed in a teapot with hot water, unlike chai, which is made from CTC (crush, tear, curl) tea. With plenty of hole-in-the-wall cafes and eateries within the town, and hiking trails and Buddhist monasteries nearby, Darjeeling offers a welcome change of pace for every palate.

Similarly, Kangra – another important Indian tea-growing region in Himachal Pradesh – offers relaxed views of Himalayan foothills that can be easily reached via the nearby hill station of Dharamshala , and the adjacent settlement of McLeod Ganj. Currently, Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and the exiled Tibetan government, and the town is rich with Tibetan influence.

Planning tip: The famous narrow-gauge Toy Train to Darjeeling runs uphill from New Jalpaiguri station, following the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many tourists opt for two-hour 'joy rides' on the steam locos from Darjeeling to Ghum (India's highest railway station) and back. October to January are peak months for the Toy Train, so book your seats in advance via the IRCTC website .

17. Travel on a sleeper train

Strikingly scenic and luxuriously slow, rail travel in India offers a pleasant change of pace from the vibrant cacophony of urban tourist hubs. Heading from Delhi to Rishikesh via the overnight Shatabdi train, carefully poke your head out to watch the length of the train curve through the rural countryside. As the views roll by, expect to be generously supplied with railway snacks – from samosas and poha (flattened rice) to full meals, if you so choose – and topped up with extra hot, extra sweet chai , as chaiwalas saunter by with a kettle and paper cups.

If you’re looking to explore southwestern parts of the country, there are several dramatic train routes connecting the busy city of Mumbai with the historic port city of Kochi , whooshing past swathes of the lush green Konkan region and offering glimpses of the Arabian Sea.

Planning tip: Seats on popular routes fill up fast, so it’s worth booking your ticket online in advance via the IRCTC website. For maximum privacy and comfort for long overnight journeys, book an AC-class ticket (you can choose from four-bed, three-bed or two-bed cabins). If you’re keen to meet local people, opt for a Sleeper class ticket (but don’t expect to get too much sleep). Although you’ll find sit-down toilets on board, it’s advisable to carry your own toilet paper.

18. Practice Yoga in Rishikesh

Tucked away in the Himalayan foothills upon the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is a renowned spiritual hub, famed for its ashrams and yoga and meditation centers. Beyond the oft-discussed “Beatles Ashram” – a now-abandoned ashram visited by the Beatles in the '60s when they were learning Transcendental Meditation – Rishikesh is also the setting for the annual International Yoga Festival in March.

There are a plethora of yoga courses available, taught by both Indian and foreign teachers. For beginners, we recommend signing up for a course at the Sivananda Ashram , where you can learn surya namaskars (sun salutations) and basic asanas on the river bank. There are also several women-only yoga courses available, at a variety of price points.

Planning tip: If you’re planning to visit during the International Yoga Festival, book yourself a spot online . Most yoga centers are located between Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, so book your accommodation at least a few months in advance. Note that Rishikesh is a vegetarian city; for non-veg dishes, head to the nearby town of Haridwar .

19. Immerse yourself in the diversity of northeastern India

Considering how diverse the northeastern states of India are, it seems almost unfair how frequently they are grouped together. India’s northeast has an offbeat experience for every traveler, from the annual Hornbill Festival in Kohima, Nagaland , which showcases the ethnic diversity of the state’s 17 main tribes every December, to the unparalleled views of 8586m (28,169ft) Khangchendzonga (the world’s third-highest mountain) from Gangtok in Sikkim .

We recommend starting your tour of the region in Guwahati in Assam, heading on a safari to Kaziranga National Park , where you can see one-horned rhinos, and then traveling onward to Majuli, the world’s largest river island. In Meghalaya , start in Shillong and loop towards the scenic town of Cherrapunji, lush with waterfalls and living root bridges – wondrous pedestrian bridges engineered by intertwining rubber tree roots over time. Further northeast, Arunachal Pradesh’s atmospheric Ziro Valley offers beginner-friendly treks through bamboo and pine forests.

Planning tip: The busiest time to visit the northeast is March to June when there’s still a slight coolness in the air. Accommodation during these months is more expensive; if you’re looking for a more affordable trip, the weather during the summer months – with the exception of lowland areas affected by the monsoon – is pleasant too.

Two men carrying baskets in Crawford Market in Mumbai, India

20. Visit a bustling local market

Wherever you go in India, from Kashmir in the north to the tip of Kanyakumari in the south, no trip would be complete without a visit to a market. This is true whether you take a shikara (wooden boat) to watch the chaos of the early morning floating vegetable market on Dal Lake in Srinagar  or go bargaining for jhumkas (earrings) in Chandni Chowk in Delhi.

Markets in India are worth visiting partly because they’re authentically Indian – they’re frequented by local people year round, regardless of whether tourists visit them or not. We recommend starting off with a few of Delhi’s favorite bazaars – browse for clothes and attars (scents) in Chandni Chowk, Tibetan-style jewelry in Majnu-ka-Tila, and spices in Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market (your clothes will smell of ground cinnamon and cardamom for days, even after being laundered). Other rewarding markets include Mysore’s Devaraja Market , Jaipur ’s Johri Bazar, and Kolkata ’s Mullick Ghat – Asia’s largest flower market.

Planning tip: Markets are high pedestrian traffic areas and can be overwhelming; new-to-India travelers may want to book a guided tour. Be sure to keep your valuables in a concealed money belt (or similar), as pickpockets are common in these markets.

21. Tour Rajasthan’s historic forts and palaces

Thanks to a rich history of intertwined kingdoms and local battles, Rajasthan is home to some of India’s most spectacular forts and palaces. Over the centuries, neighboring kingdoms tried to one-up each other in fabulous displays of ostentation, and fought countless battles amongst themselves and against outsiders. It was only in the mid-1500s that the region – then called “Rajputana” – was brought together under the Mughal emperor Akbar.

Start with the Amber Fort in Amer (outside Jaipur) with its honeyed pink-and-yellow walls standing stark against cloudless blue skies. Inside, the palace walls are intricately painted, and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) brings the stars indoors as candlelight twinkles on mirror mosaics. Other forts and palaces to check off your list include Mehrangarh in the blue city of Jodhpur , Ranthambhore Fort inside Ranthambhore National Park , Chittor in Chittorgarh, and Kumbhalgarh in the Aravali Hills.

Planning tip: Plan to visit Rajasthan when the weather is at its coolest, between October and March. Keep some small change handy for camera fees if you want to use a camera inside most fort complexes (you can often shoot on your phone for free). Although many forts (including Amber Fort) offer elephant rides for sightseeing, these have been banned by the government since 2005 as they are harmful to elephants.

22. Experience the energy of India’s festivals

With an almost impossibly diverse population, religion is the core of India’s social fabric, and religious festivals pulse through the country’s calendar. Celebrated enthusiastically by the majority Hindu population, Holi – the festival of colors in the spring – and Diwali – the festival of lights – are major events across the country. In the east, Durga Puja is a grand celebration of the Hindu goddess Durga and brings Kolkata to a standstill.

Similarly, Ganesh Chaturthi – celebrating the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesh – is of paramount significance in Mumbai , where crowds accompany giant statues of the deity as they are paraded through the city and submerged in the sea.

The Muslim celebrations for Eid (at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan) are memorable in Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Hyderabad – people open up intricate late-night markets and street-food stalls showcasing Muslim delicacies native to each area.

There are dozens of other region- and religion-specific festivals, so be sure to do your homework on festival dates. The harvest festival of Onam brings bursts of color across the southern state of Kerala in August or September. If you’re headed to Ladakh or other places with large Tibetan Buddhist populations such as Dharamshala or Arunachal Pradesh, the Tibetan New Year festival of Losar in February or March brings three full days of festivities, including masked Buddhist dances at monasteries.

Planning tip: Many Indian festivals follow the lunar calendar, so dates change every year. Islamic festivals move forward by 11 days each year, relative to the Gregorian calendar. Always check the dates of festivals locally to avoid missing significant events.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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Best Tourist Attractions in India

Tourist attractions in india, here is the list of 56 best tourist attractions in india, 1. taj mahal, agra.

Taj Mahal, Agra

The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world and is considered to be the most popular tourist attraction in India. A symbol of love, the Taj was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his queen Mumtaz. Tagore described the Taj as a "teardrop on the cheek of eternity". The monument attracts a lot of tourists all around the year.

2. Golden Temple, Amritsar

Golden Temple, Amritsar

Tangibly the most spiritual place in India, Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmindar Sahib, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism which is alive with religious fervour and sacredness. Although the Golden Temple itself is of great historical and architectural interest, it is the view of the resplendent shrine, glistening in the centre of the tank, bringing an infinite calmness that is most memorable to a visitor.

3. Red Fort, Delhi

Red Fort, Delhi

The Red Fort is a historical tourist attraction in India in the national capital of New Delhi. Located in the center of the city, it was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty. It was constructed by Shah Jahan in the year 1939 as a result of a capital shift from Agra to Delhi.

4. Mysore Palace, Mysore

Mysore Palace, Mysore

An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo - Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence.

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Kashmir tour package 9 days with gondola ride, udaipur jaisalmer tour package: luxury rajasthan edition, sikkim tour package for 7 days - rafting on the teesta river, india tour package of golden triangle with jaisalmer, 5. amber fort, jaipur.

Amber Fort, Jaipur

Cradled on the top of the Aravali Hill and forming a beautiful reflection across the Maotha Lake, lies the Amber Fort. An architectural masterpiece and with significant reference in the Indian history, it is visited by over five thousand tourists daily. Only eleven kilometres away from the capital city of Jaipur, Amber Fort is clad in pink and yellow sandstone and is a part of an extensive complex.

6. Chola Temples - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Chola Temples - UNESCO World Heritage Site

History is alluring. It teaches us about the culture, people, traditions of an era gone by. In the history of the southern parts of the country, the Chola Empire ruled for centuries. The three temples built by the Chola kingdom are a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are labelled as, "Great Living Chola Temples".

7. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

The historic Meenakshi Amman temple is located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Built sometime between the year 1623 and 1655, the wonderful architecture of the place is renowned globally. Meenakshi Temple is primarily dedicated to Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her spouse, Shiva.

8. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra - World Heritage Ancient Rock-Cut Caves

Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra - World Heritage Ancient Rock-Cut Caves

Known For : Ajanta Caves Grishneshwar Temple, Ellora The Buddhist Caves, Ellora

Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves, are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. Ajanta and Ellora caves complex is adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings, and frescoes and include Buddhist monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples. 

Best Time: June to March

12 Ajanta Caves Attractions

9. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

The Mahabodhi temple also called the "Great Awakening Temple", is among one of the World Heritage Sites. It is a Buddhist temple in Bodh Gaya, which marks the location where the Buddha, is said to have attained enlightenment. It is hence, one of the only four sites related to the life of Lord Buddha.

10. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand - Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand - Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger

Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, during this month, sees a surge in wildlife activity, increasing the chances of spotting the majestic Bengal tiger. The deciduous forests turn a golden hue, creating a picturesque backdrop for safaris. Bird-watchers are in for a treat as migratory birds visit the region. January in Jim Corbett is synonymous with thrilling wildlife encounters.

Best Time: Mid October to Mid June

19 Jim Corbett Attractions

11. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Another symbol of the British Raj in India, the Victoria Memorial is located in the heart of Kolkata , which was formerly known as Calcutta, in West Bengal , India. This white marbled beauty, which can rightly be called the epitome of grace and elegance, was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India.

12. Hampi, Karnataka - The abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape

Hampi, Karnataka - The abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this tourist attraction in India is a historical delight for travellers. Hampi is an open museum with 100+ locations to explore and a favourite way to see the city from the perspective of its history.

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

13. Pangong Lake, Ladakh - One of the most serene tourist attractions in India

Pangong Lake, Ladakh - One of the most serene tourist attractions in India

The famous and sparkling blue Pangong lake is situated near Leh-Ladakh in the Himalayas, approximately at the height of 4350 meters. This endorheic lake is 12 kilometres long and extends from India to Tibet, with two-thirds of it lying in the latter. Owing to its altitude, the temperature here ranges from -5°C to 10°C as a result of which the lake freezes completely during winters.

14. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - The Spiritual Capital of India

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - The Spiritual Capital of India

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Varanasi, the city that is more than just the spiritual capital of India. The city which can be aptly described as a melting pot where both life and death come together. The city that you only need to visit once for it to stay with you forever. Popular among both domestic and international tourists for its magnanimous ghats and Ganga Aarti, the city is among the top tourist attractions in India.

42 Varanasi Attractions

15. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan - The Golden City

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan - The Golden City

Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake

Situated close to the Pakistan Border, Jaisalmer is a major tourist attraction in India located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan. It is called the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes flowing in the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples, havelis and castles clad in golden yellowish sandstone.

39 Jaisalmer Attractions

16. Gateway of India, Mumbai

Gateway of India, Mumbai

The Gateway of India is, without doubt, one of the most popular tourist attractions in India. It is located at Apollo Bunder Waterfront and overlooks the Arabian Sea in the most beautiful way. One of the most distinguished monuments in Mumbai, it was built in the year 1924 by famous architect George Wittet as a commemoration of the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai.

17. Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad

Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad

One of the oldest mosques in the city, the Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad is one of the largest masjids in India. This revered shrine was commissioned by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty in the year 1614, while the construction saw completion in the year 1694.

18. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

The massive edifice of Hawa Mahal stands at the intersection of the main road in Jaipur , Badi Chaupad. It is regarded as the signature building of the city and was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in the year 1799. The main reason behind the palace's construction was to allow the women of the royal house to observe the festivities on the streets whilst being unseen from the outside.

19. Best Beaches In Goa

Best Beaches In Goa

Goa, a tiny state on the western coast of India along the Arabian Sea, is famous for its laidback beaches, night long parties, beach shacks, water sports and many other adventure activities. One of the most visited tourist attractions in India, Goa has many beaches along its beautiful coastline, catering to millions of visitors every year.

20. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh - The Tiger's Den

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh - The Tiger's Den

Formerly a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa, the Bandhavgarh National Park is world-renowned as a tiger reserve and it is known to have the highest density of Bengal tigers in the world. The frequent sightings of royal tigers make this national park a must-visit for all wildlife enthusiasts. In 2012, around 44-49 tigers were living in the park.

Best Time: October to June

21. Agra Fort, Agra - An Epitome of the Mughal Dynasty

Agra Fort, Agra - An Epitome of the Mughal Dynasty

An architectural masterpiece, The Red Fort of Agra or Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar in 1573. It is located on the right bank of the River Yamuna and is made entirely of red sandstone. The historical fort was once the ersthwhile residence of the Mughals until 1638. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it lies 2.5 kilometres from Taj Mahal .

22. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

The Mehrangarh Fort, built by Rao Jodha in 1459 in Jodhpur, is one of the largest forts in the country. It is situated at the top of a 410 feet elevated hill and guarded by massive walls. Located in the centre of the city, the fort covers an area of approximately 5 Kms of a hill. Its walls have a height of 36 metres and width of 21 metres.

23. Jama Masjid, Delhi

Jama Masjid, Delhi

Amidst the rush and chaos of Central Delhi, lies the peace and tranquillity of the largest mosque in the country. The 'Masjid-I Jahan-Numa' or Jama Masjid as it is more commonly known, means "World Reflecting Mosque." It was the last of Shah Jahan's impressive collection of architectural undertakings, after the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort.

24. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh - The Architectural Masterpiece

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh - The Architectural Masterpiece

Known For : Light and Sound Show, Khajuraho Dulhadev Temple Kandariya Mahadev Temple

Khajuraho is known around the world for its stunning temples adorned by erotic and sensuous carvings. Khajuraho is a brilliant example of Indian architecture and its culture back in the medieval period. The architecture of these Hindu and Jain temples depict the innocent form of love, the carvings on the walls display passion in the most erotic yet aesthetic ways.

Best Time: July to March

25 Khajuraho Attractions

25. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

Located near the famous Golden Temple of Amritsar, the Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden which houses a memorial to commemorate the massacre of peaceful celebrators by the British forces. The tragic incident had left a deep scar on the country, and a memorial was constructed post the independence for the innocents who lost their lives in this devastating incident.

26. Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch

Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch

The Great Rann of Kutch, a large area of salt marshland, is located in the District of Kutch, in the western state of India, Gujarat. The vast expanse is situated in the Thar Desert and is formed of salt marshes which create a mesmerising view that attracts travellers from all over the world. Sunsets at the Great Rann of Kutch are a treat to the eyes after exploring the region.

27. Cellular Jail, Andaman Nicobar-islands

Cellular Jail, Andaman Nicobar-islands

The Cellular Jail, also known as 'Kala Pani' is an old colonial prison situated in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Constructed by the Britishers during their colonial rule in India, Cellular Jail was used particularly to exile political prisoners where they were subjected to many atrocities at the hands of the British.

28. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Famous for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves, Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram as it is famously known, is a historically important and well-loved tourist location situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu. Once the abode of the famous demon king Mahabali, Mahabalipuram was later renamed Mamallapuram. 

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

29. Nalanda, Bihar - The Ancient Seat of Knowledge

Nalanda, Bihar - The Ancient Seat of Knowledge

Known For : Nalanda University Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall The Great Stupa

The most popular Mahavihara of the ancient times, a significant Buddhist seat of academic excellence and a modest pilgrim center, all wrapped in a wisp of spirituality, Nalanda continues to be an equally enriching location in the present. It offers vibrant substance of spirituality, history, culture, architecture, and tourism.

8 Nalanda Attractions

30. Elephanta caves, Mumbai

Elephanta caves, Mumbai

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves is a specimen of rock-cut art and architecture from the times of medieval India. The caves are located on the Elephanta island which is situated at a distance of 11 km from the city of Mumbai . Natively known as Gharapurichi Leni, the Elephanta Caves that exist today are ruins of what were once elaborately painted artworks.

31. Bara Imambara, Lucknow

Bara Imambara, Lucknow

The Bara Imambara of Lucknow is one of the most famous monuments of the city. Also known as Asfi Imambara, after the name of the Nawab of Lucknow who got it constructed, it is an important place of worship for the Muslims who come here every year to celebrate the religious festival of Muharram.

32. Fort Aguada, Goa - A Fortress of Tranquility

Fort Aguada, Goa - A Fortress of Tranquility

Fort Aguada is a 17th-century Portuguese fort looking out at the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. The crumbling ramparts of the fort stand on the Sinquerim Beach, approximately 18 km from Panjim. The highlight of the fort is a lone four-storey lighthouse (which is one-of-its-kind in Asia )and a stunning view of the sunset.

33. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

A city, predominantly made of red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri was founded in 16th century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. Back then it was the capital of his Empire for fifteen years. Now a UNESCO world heritage site and a famous tourist attraction, it is a fine example of Akbar's architectural finesse. Fatehpur Sikri is a home to Jodha Bai's palace , Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza , and a Tomb of Salim Chisti.

34. Jantar Mantar, Delhi, Delhi

Jantar Mantar, Delhi, Delhi

Located in the Parliament Street, south Connaught Circle of New Delhi, Jantar Mantar is a vast observatory built to help and improve upon the studies of time and space as was known. It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the year 1724 and forms a part of a collection of five such observatories located in Jaipur , Ujjain , Varanasi and Mathura .

35. Hanging Gardens, Mumbai

Hanging Gardens, Mumbai

Hanging Garden is a terrace garden situated on top of the Malabar Hill, right next to the Kamla Nehru Park. It overlooks the stunning Arabian Sea and was built in 1880 by Mr. Ulhas Ghapokar. The stunning gardens are dedicated to Barrister Pherozeshah Mehta and are also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. 

36. Lotus Temple, Delhi

Lotus Temple, Delhi

Located in the national capital of New Delhi, the Lotus Temple is an edifice dedicated to the Baha'i faith. The magnificent structure of this building unfolds in the form of a stupendous white petal lotus and is one of the most visited establishments in the world. The design of this shrine was conceptualized by Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba and was completed in the year 1986. 

37. Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath

Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath

The national emblem of India and a mark of Emperor Ashoka's visit to Sarnath, the Ashoka Pillar crafted out of stone is an impressive structure with four lions at the top. This 50 m long pillar along with the Dhamek Stupa, are Ashoka's gift to Buddhism and the entire complex has a calm aura to it. A number of monks are spotted meditating around the compound. 

38. Sanchi Stupa, Sanchi

Sanchi Stupa, Sanchi

Located in Madhya Pradesh, the Buddhist monuments of Sanchi are one of the oldest stone structures in India. Designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the Great Stupa was installed in the 3rd century BC by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. The sculptures and monuments present at the site are a fine example of the development of Buddhist art and architecture in Madhya Pradesh. 

39. Cave Temples, Badami

Cave Temples, Badami

The Cave Temples of Badami consist of four separate temples, each holding intricate carvings and depictions. These carvings depict Shiva and Vishnu in various avatars in the first 3 temples, representing the Brahmanical style. The fourth temple is dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras.

40. Statue of Unity, Gujarat

Statue of Unity, Gujarat

Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.

41. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

The Junagarh Fort of Bikaner is a magnificent structure around which the city of Bikaner grew up. The fort was initially called Chintamani and was then renamed as the Junagarh or Old fort in the 20th century. The foundations of the Junagarh fort was built in 1478 by Rao Bika. However, it existed just as a stone fort then. 

42. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the five hill forts of Rajasthan that were declared the UNESCO world heritage site in 2013. It is situated in Rajsamand district of Rajasthan and lies 82 kilometres northwest of the city of Udaipur. Constructed on the foothills of Aravalli ranges, it is surrounded by thirteen hill peaks of the ranges and is perched at an elevation of 1,914 m. 

43. Qutub Minar, Delhi

Qutub Minar, Delhi

The soaring and brave tower that allures tourists despite being destroyed by ravages of natural apocalypses several times, Qutub Minar is the tallest individual tower in the world and second tallest monument of Delhi. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is located in Mehrauli and its construction was started in 1192 by Qutb Ud-Din-Aibak, founder of Delhi Sultanate. 

44. Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

As the name suggests, Humayun's tomb is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Located in the Nizamuddin East area of Delhi, it is the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent.  The design of Humayun's tomb is a typical Mughal architecture with Persian influences and was conceptualised by Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyath. 

45. India Gate, Delhi

India Gate, Delhi

The All India War Memorial, popularly known as the India Gate, is located along the  Rajpath in  New Delhi . The imposing structure of India Gate is an awe-inspiring sight and is often compared to the Arch de Triomphe in France, the Gateway of India in Mumbai and the Arch of Constantine in Rome.

46. Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati

Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati

Located on the Nilanchal Hill in the western part of Guwahati in Assam,  Kamakhya Temple is one of the most revered shrines of Goddess Shakti in India. According to the Hindu scriptures, there are four important Shakti Peethas (Temples with highest powers of divinity) in the country and Kamakhya Temple is one of them. 

47. Akshardham Temple Delhi, Delhi

Akshardham Temple Delhi, Delhi

An epitome of Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture, Akshardham Temple is a famous Hindu temple and a spiritual-cultural complex. Also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham, it is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. Akshardham has made its way to the Guinness Book of World Records as the World's Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.

48. Hidimba Temple, Manali

Hidimba Temple, Manali

Located amidst the snow-covered hills of Manali, the Hadimba Temple is a unique shrine dedicated to Hidimba Devi, who was the wife of Bhima and mother of Ghatothkach. Surrounded by gorgeous cedar forests, this beautiful shrine is built on a rock which is believed to be in the image of goddess Hidimba herself.

49. Best Beaches in Kerala

Best Beaches in Kerala

The beaches of Kerala need no introduction, interlinking with the beautiful backwaters to form an elaborate network of heavenly water bodies. The Allapuzha beach is most well-known, connected to the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey earning the city the title of Venice of the East. Check out Varkala beach to recapture the hippie vibe of Goa. 

50. Auroville, Pondicherry - The City of Dawn

Auroville, Pondicherry - The City of Dawn

Known For : Matrimandir Marc's Cafe Arka

Located around 15 km from the city of Pondicherry, Auroville is located in Tamil Nadu and was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple of Aurobindo and fondly known as the 'Mother' of Sri Aurobindo Society. This place is the epitome of tranquillity and proves as the perfect escape for the ones in search of peace. 

Best Time: November to March

21 Auroville Attractions

51. Shaniwar Wada, Pune

Shaniwar Wada, Pune

Shaniwarwada, once the seat of the Peshwa governance in Pune is a 286-year-old mansion and is one of the finest examples of architecture in the city. It is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra . This grand mansion was built by the Peshwa Bajirao I himself as the residence of the Peshwas. 

52. Charminar, Hyderabad

Charminar, Hyderabad

An identifying feature of the city, Charminar is the most prominent landmark located right in the heart of Hyderabad . The monument was erected by Quli Qutub Shah to signify the founding of Hyderabad. As is evident from the structure, it was so named as it consists of four minarets. 

53. Vaishno Devi, Jammu & Kashmir - The Holy Caves

Vaishno Devi, Jammu & Kashmir - The Holy Caves

Known For : Vaishno Devi Mandir Ardhkuwari

Vaishno Devi is a temple town that's home to the famous Vaishno Devi Mandir. Located in Trikuta hills, 13 kms from Katra (in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir); this renowned shrine allures millions of devotees from all over the world.  Popularly known as Mata Rani, Vaishnavi and Trikuta, Vaishno Devi is a manifestation of the Hindu Goddess Durga.

Best Time: Throughout the year

8 Vaishno Devi Attractions

54. Dal Lake, Srinagar

Dal Lake, Srinagar

The Jewel of Srinagar, the Dal Lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and is almost a visual definition of the town. Spread over 15 kms, it is the second-largest lake in Jammu & Kashmir. The mirror-like Dal Lake reflects the snow-dusted peaks of the Pir Panjal mountains while the colourful shikaras (gondolas) float around. The houseboats and shikaras are its main attractions.

55. Bhangarh Fort, Alwar

Bhangarh Fort, Alwar

Famous for the historical ruins and the ghost stories, Bhangarh has been regarded as the most haunted place in the country. It is located on the way between Jaipur and Delhi. The Bhangarh Fort is a 17th Century fort in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. It was built by Bhagwant Das for his son Madho Singh I. It was named by Madho Singh after his grandfather Man Singh or Bhan Singh.

56. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu - An exotic side of India's Fauna

Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu - An exotic side of India's Fauna

Known For : Madumalai National Park The Jungle Safari Theppakadu Elephant Camp

Mudumalai National Park is a part of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located at a distance of 150 kilometres from Coimbatore, in the Nilgiri District of Tamilnadu. It connects the Western Ghats to the Eastern Ghats and owes its popularity to the fact that it’s home to many vulnerable and endangered animal and bird species.

Best Time: December to June

3 Mudumalai Attractions

We hope you have enjoyed the list of the most popular tourist attractions in India given above. Let us know which of these attractions are on your favourites list in the comments below!

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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The adventurous feet

Indian Landmarks: 25 Most Famous Landmarks in India to Visit

Are you looking for places to visit on your next big trip to India? Then here are the most famous landmarks in India that you should tailor your itinerary around .

Being one of the cheapest countries in Asia , India is an ideal country for any traveler.

Known for its diverse culture, rich history, beautiful temples, palaces, ruins of ancient cities, monuments, and architectural gems, there are a number of Indian landmarks that you should not miss on your next visit.

Since you may not have time to explore all the monuments of India, I am sharing with you this comprehensive list of the 25 most famous landmarks in India that you shouldn’t miss visiting.

Psst… Traveling only to the Northern part of the country? Then check out these beautiful places to visit in Northern India and before you go, make sure that you check out these useful India travel tips for a perfect trip. You may also want to know all the things India is famous for .

Famous Landmarks in India

Here are the must-visit landmarks in India.

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

best places to visit in north india

Taj Mahal has to top the list of India landmarks as it is a bucket list destination for millions of travelers.

Located in Agra city, the Taj Mahal is the most famous landmark in India and your trip will be incomplete without visiting it.

Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and1648 to commemorate and house the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is not only a symbol of India’s rich history but also the unofficial icon of the country attracting millions of tourists from all corners of the world.

The Taj Mahal is not only one of the 7 wonders of the world but has also been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983.

This Mausoleum built with white marble is a jewel of Muslim art whose striking beauty will leave you in awe.

Besides the architectural beauty, the Taj Mahal also offers some of the best sunrise views.

Looking for more fun things to do in India? You can check out my recommended tours and activities in the widget below all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide.

Related post: Top landmarks to visit in Asia

2. Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi

Swaminarayan Akshardham is one of the famous indian landmarks

Located near the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi is Swaminarayan Akshardham , the world’s largest Hindu temple.

It is a one-stop place to learn about Indian culture and spirituality and admire its magnificent architecture.

Sitting on 12 hectares of land, the temple complex has a museum, a large cultural center, a water canal, and parks, and it’s flooded with shrines and sculptures.

At the temple’s centerpiece, you will find a massive idol of the Lord of Swaminarayan and over 20,000 deities, sages, and displays of traditional and modern Hindu culture.

The outside of the temple is also a beautiful wonder decorated with over 148 statues of elephants and a step-well-styled courtyard.

Though the divine abode of God is a stunning piece of architecture built from intricately carved sandstone and marble and the primal attraction at Swaminarayan Akshardham, there are so many things to do and see at this Indian landmark.

Related post: 25 Best things India is famous for

3. Qutab Minar, New Delhi

Qutab Minar is one of the india famous landmarks

Being the second tallest Minar in India after Fateh Burj, Qutab Minar is also the tallest minaret made of bricks in the world and one of the historical monuments of India.

Rising 238ft (73m) tall, this UNESCO World Heritage site was built in 1200AD by Qutb-al-Din-Aibak, the first Muslim ruler after the defeat of the last Hindu kingdom to indicate a power shift.

The Minar features 5 storeys with a base diameter of 15m (43ft) and an apex of 2.5 m (9ft) with each story having a separate projecting balcony. It is one of the ancient surviving Indo-Islamic architecture and attracts more than 3 million visitors a year.

The Minar is surrounded by several historically significant Indian monuments including; ruins, tombs, medieval structures, and madrassa. And at the foot of the Minar is the Quwwat-Ul-Islam which was the first mosque to be built in India.

The highlight of this tower of victory is a 7m (23ft) pure iron pillar that is more than 6 tons and has resisted corrosion for centuries.

There is a popular belief that if you can encircle the iron with your hands while standing with your back to it, your wish will be fulfilled.

Related post: Famous landmarks in China

4. Agra Fort, Agra

Agra Fort is one of the famous landmarks in india

Sitting on 380,000 square meters is the beautiful Agra Fort which is one of the famous Indian monuments and a popular tourist spot receiving around 2 million visitors a year.

The construction of this historical fort started in 1565 and was the primary residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638 when the capital of India shifted from Agra to Delhi.

The fort is more of a walled city with a hidden paradise and exquisite buildings encompassed in 2.5km long and 70ft (21m) high walls.

The crescent-shaped fort has 2 mosques, multiple palaces, and audience halls illustrating the Mughal architecture.

So if you love ancient history, you will love Agra Fort which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983 and is now one of the must-visit landmarks of India.

5. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Hawa Mahal is one of the famous monuments in india

Located 300km from India’s capital Delhi, Hawa Mahal is a beautiful palace located in the city of Jaipur. Also known as the Palace of Winds, it is one of the famous Indian landmarks to visit in the city.

It was built from red and pink sandstones with pyramidal shapes resembling Lord Krishna’s crown giving it a unique and beautiful look.

Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh constructed the 5 storey building in 1799 as an extension of the Royal City Palace.

Though its main purpose was to provide an observation place for the royal women to witness the everyday city life and the street festivals without being seen by the public, today, it’s an India landmark that welcomes millions of visitors who want to admire its impeccable beauty and walk into the footsteps of the royals.

Besides the architecture and history, getting to the top of the palace will give you amazing views of the bustling streets of Jaipur, the City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.

6. Red Fort, Delhi (Old Delhi)

Red Fort is one of the indian historical monuments

Red Fort is one of the most celebrated Indian historical monuments. Located at the heart of old Delhi, it was built by Emperor Shah Jahan from 1639-1648 when India changed its capital from Agra to Delhi.

This magnificent fort was the primary residence of many Mughal emperors, and its beauty and rich heritage make it one of the famous landmarks of India that attracts thousands of travelers to the city.

It was built using red sandstones hence the name Red Fort. Today, it houses museums and serves as a ceremonial ground where India hoists its national flag on Independence Day every year.

It is also surrounded by several big gates and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

7. The Golden Temple, Amritsar

The Golden Temple is one of the famous landmarks of india

The Golden Temple is an Indian landmark known for its beautiful golden walls.

This beautiful temple in Amritsar is the holiest pilgrimage site for people who follow the Sikh faith.

The temple features 16th-century Hindu and Islamic architecture styles with intricate designs and stunning sparkling golden walls that will leave you in awe.

It is centered on a holy pond known as Amrit Sarovar which makes it appear like it’s floating on water.

The pond has holy water on all sides where devotees take a dip to wash away their sins. This temple is the epitome of harmony, equality, and glory.

So if you are looking for a place to seek spiritual solace and blessings, then visit the Golden Temple to join millions of other devotees from all over the world who come to seek spiritual nourishment and peace.

8. Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

Ajanta & Ellora Caves are som of the top Indian landmarks

A trip to the Aurangabad region in Maharashtra will leave you impressed by the hand-crafted caves, sculptures, and frescoes representing the ancient rock-cut architecture in the world.

The two caves of Ajanta and Ellora are famous landmarks of India and UNESCO World Heritage sites that attract thousands of curious travelers and historians.

While the Ajanta caves dedicated to the Buddhists have 29 caves and date back to the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD, the Ellora caves date back to the 6th century AD and 11th century AD and are dedicated to Hindus, Buddhists, and Jain.

The most renowned attraction here is Cave 16 at Ellora which houses the Kailasa temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also the largest monolithic rock-cut temple in the world and also a historical Indian landmark not to miss.

Other notable attractions not to miss here include the life-size elephant sculptures, together with other fine Indian paintings that will make you appreciate India’s historical art even more.

9. Gateway of India, Mumbai

Gateway of India is one of the famous landmarks in India

Gateway of India is an Indian historical monument located at the Apex of Apollo Bunder overlooking the Arabian Sea in Mumbai. 

The 26m (85ft) monument was built in 1911 and completed in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India.

The gateway of India also served as an entry point for British Viceroys when they arrived in India.

Though it was constructed in the 20th century, it has a 16th-century Gujarat architecture with touches of Islamic designs and a resemblance of a triumphal arch that attracts a number of architecture and history buffs.

The place is also a popular spot for locals, travelers, photographers, street vendors, and street food stalls.

Related post: Most beautiful places to visit in India

10. Konark Sun Temple, Konark

Konark Sun Temple is one of the indian famous monuments

On the coastline of Odisha, 35km northeast of Puri, on the bank of River Chandrabhaga is Konark Sun Temple which is one of the famous monuments of India.

Built in the 13th century and dedicated to the Hindu Sun God Surya, this stunning piece of architecture is mind-blowing.

It is designed to resemble a gigantic chariot with 24 wheels led by a team of 6 horses all carved from stone. The temple is also decorated with intricate artwork, symbolic designs, and iconography that illustrates the Kalinga architecture.

Since the temple is dedicated to the sun God, it was perfectly designed such that the first rays of the sun strike at the temple’s entrance every day.

With years of history and impressive architecture, the Konark Sun Temple is a famous landmark in India that should not be missed.

11. Amer Fort, Jaipur

Amer Fort is one of india's landmarks

Cradled on top of Aravalli hill, Amer Fort or Amber Fort is one of the most majestic palaces in India.

Located 11km (6.8 mi) from the pink city of Jaipur, it is arguably one of the grandest forts and one of the most famous buildings in India attracting millions of visitors every year.

Built in 1592 by emperor Sing, the fort served as the primary residence of the Rajput rulers. But today, this magnificent palace that was constructed with yellow and pink sandstone offers a visual treat to all its visitors.

It is one of the Indian famous landmarks and an architectural masterpiece that illustrates Rajputana architecture.

Its colorful architectural design with maze-like passages and many meandering staircases makes it a major tourist spot in Jaipur.

The charming complex with exquisite Hindu elements at the peaks is also a must-see sight while exploring the palace.

12. Charminar, Hyderabad

Charminar is one of the famous buildings in india

Charminar is one of the most famous monuments in India located in the heart of Hyderabad.

This iconic monument was constructed in 1591 by the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty, Muhammad Quli Sha.

It is one of the most recognizable and famous structures in India. It has 4 minarets on the 4 corners rising 48.7m (160ft) which symbolize the first 4 khalifas of Islam.

On the top floor of this monument is a mosque that has been in existence for more than 400 years.

This religious and historical Indian landmark is popular for the busy local markets surrounding it, and it’s a site for numerous festival celebrations like Eid-al-Fitr.

It’s that one place you have to visit while in Hyderabad as it’s not only an Indian landmark but also the city’s international symbol.

13. Safdarjung Tomb, New Delhi

Safdarjung Tomb is one of the famous indian landmarks

Do you love photography and architecture? Then don’t miss visiting Safdarjung Tomb , one of the few Indian monuments built during the Mughal era’s last span highlighting the stunning Mughal architecture.

Built in 1754 for a powerful Mughal emperor who ruled from 1719 -1748, Safdarjung Tomb is a gorgeous marble and sandstone mausoleum with 213 LED lights illuminating the tomb every night from 7.30 pm to 11 pm.

The underground chamber hosts two graves of Safdarjung and his wife, and the compound garden houses 3-dome mosques, fountains, and water canals flowing through the compound.

This beautiful tomb complex is not super crowded making it an ideal spot for people who hate congested tourist areas.

14. Pangong Tso, Ladakh

Pangong Tso is one of the natural landmarks in India

At an elevation of 4,225m (13,862ft), Pangong Tso is the highest saltwater lake in the world and also one of the most famous natural landmarks in India.

It stretches 134km (83 mi) long and is divided into 5 sub lakes. 40% of the lake is in Ladakh, India, while the other 50% is in Tibet, China , and the 10 % is disputed between the 2 countries.

One of the unusual and impressive things about Pangong Tso is that it keeps changing colors from blue to green or red depending on the time of the day.  

The beauty of this lake is unspeakable and you have to see it for yourself to understand and take in its splendor. You can literally spend hours here and not get enough of the lake.

15. Masrur Temples, Laharpur

Masrur Temples are some of the famous monuments of india

 Also known as Himalayan pyramids, the Masrur Temples are a cluster of 15 rock-cut temples built in the 8th and 9th centuries.

The temples have three entrances; the northwest, southeast, and northwest, where two entrances are incomplete.

The temples feature reliefs, and idols of Lord Rama, Lord Lakhsnana, and Goddess Sita. The temples are also spiritually significant and a key archeological site that attracts millions of visitors from all corners of the world.

However, the temples were ruined by earthquakes, and the temple ruins complex left remains an extraordinary marvel that proves human creativity.

16. Dzuko Valley, Manipur

Dzuko Valley is one of the landmarks of India

If you’re a nature lover, then Dzuko Valley should top your list of landmarks in India to visit.

Located along the border of Manipur and Nagaland, there is no other place like this in India. It is one of the most beautiful places in the country, and it’s known for its lush rolling hills covered with dwarf bamboo.

Also known as the Valley of Flowers, it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Northeast India. It has a wide range of flowers, including the Dzuko lily with a deep shade of pink only found in this valley.

The best time to visit the valley is in full bloom season between June and September when you’ll enjoy the sight of the bright white and pink lilies adorning the valley.

The area is great for trekking, hiking , or just exploring and appreciating nature in its pristine condition.

17. India Gate, New Delhi

India Gate is one of the Indian famous monuments

Built from 1921 to 1931, India Gate in New Delhi is one of the historical monuments in India.

It is a memorial archway made of sandstone built to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who fought for the country.

A well-maintained lawn surrounds the 42m (138ft) structure and it’s a popular picnic spot among travelers and locals.

The structure has inscriptions of the names of over 70,000 soldiers killed in World War I and the soldiers martyred during the Afghan war of 1919.

On top of that, the base of the structure houses 4 eternal flames to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.

18. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the famous landmarks of India

Meenakshi Amman Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Lord Shiva. It is a major tourist spot and the epitome of classic architecture that will take your breath away.

Located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, this iconic temple has mesmerizing murals all around making it a must-visit attraction to witness its splendor.

The temple is home to a hall that has a thousand pillars, 33,000 sculptures, and a sacred pool where you can do a ritual bath. Other attractions at Meenakshi Amman Temple include; shrines, elephant sheds, gardens, and a wedding hall.

Different types of festivals are also held here throughout the year with the main festival, Chithirai Thiruvizha happening in April and attracting millions of visitors.

So if you want to experience the festivity and culture while learning about the history of Meenakshi Amman Temple, then April is the best time to visit this famous Indian landmark.

19. City Palace, Jaipur

City Palace is one of the famous buildings in india

City Palace is a famous tourist attraction in Jaipur and there is no way you can avoid it when in the city as it’s located right in the heart of the pink city.

Built from 1739-1732 by Sawai Jai Singh II, the palace illustrates a striking blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles.

The palace not only features a Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II museum that exhibits clothes worn by the royals, gardens, holy shrines, pavilions, halls, palaces, and gateways but also continues to be the home of the Jaipur royal family.

There is so much to see and explore here which portrays the richness and royalty of Indian history.

20. Mysore Palace, Mysore

Mysore Palace is a famous landmark in india

Also known as Mysuru Palace, Mysore Palace is the most famous landmark in India after the Taj Mahal.

Initially, the palace was made of wood which was later destroyed by fire in 1897. It was later rebuilt in 1912 to the 3 storey structure we see today.

It is a combination of Hindu, Gothic, Muslim, and Rajput architectural styles giving it a unique look.

The palace was the official residence of the royal family of Mysore, who ruled from 1399 to 1950.

It was later made into a museum and houses royal souvenirs, jewelry, paintings, and costumes.

The best time to visit the place is at night to watch the illuminated lights covering the structure giving it a stunning look.

21. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is one of the famous landmarks in India.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus , commonly known as CSMT, is an iconic railway station situated in the bustling city of Mumbai.

Built in 1878 during the British Colonial era, it was originally named Victoria Terminus in honor of Queen Victoria. It was later renamed to honor the Maratha warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, the structure is an exceptional blend of Gothic and Indian architectural styles.

Its intricate designs and the grand façade make it one of the standout landmarks not just in Mumbai, but in India as a whole.

Functioning as both a long-distance and local train station, it serves as a crucial hub connecting various parts of India.

The terminus is so significant that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, so it’s no surprise that it also made it to this list of India’s famous landmarks.

The station is a hive of activity, with thousands of commuters passing through daily. In fact, it holds the distinction of being one of the busiest railway stations in the country.

22. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the important monuments of India.

Located in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world.

Constructed in 1156 AD by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from whom the city derives its name, the fort stands majestically on a hill overlooking the entire city below.

Built primarily from yellow sandstone, the fort is often referred to as the Golden Fort because its walls take on a honey-gold color at sunset making it blend seamlessly with the desert sands.

Its unique appearance and historical significance earn it a spot as one of the important landmarks of India.

The fort is also considered a living monument with about a quarter of Jaisalmer’s population still residing within its walls.

It’s a bustling center full of shops, hotels, and ancient havelis (grand mansions) that boast intricate architecture and designs. These havelis showcase the artistic skills of the local craftsmen, featuring elaborate façades and ornamental latticework.

Moreover, the fort houses Jain temples dating back to the 12th century, known for their stunning sculptures and detailed carvings.

It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 and is a must-visit on any trip to India.

23. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple is one of India's famous buildings.

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya holds an unparalleled significance in the history and spirituality of India.

Located in the state of Bihar, this temple complex is the very site where Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment.

The temple was originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later renovated in the 5th and 6th centuries CE.

The central structure of the Mahabodhi Temple stands 55 meters ((180 feet) tall and is made of brick, a rarity among surviving ancient Buddhist monuments.

Intricately carved and adorned, the temple is an architectural marvel that pays tribute to India’s traditional artistry.

One of the most famous landmarks of India, the temple complex is anchored by the Bodhi Tree, a direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha meditated.

Devotees and visitors from around the world come to sit under this tree seeking the same spiritual peace that Buddha found here! And, the temple also holds various meditation events throughout the year.

In 2002, the Mahabodhi Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further affirming its importance as a religious and historical landmark in India.

24. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Humayun’s Tomb is one of the historical landmarks in India.

Nest on our list of important landmarks in India is Humayun’s Tomb .

Built between 1565 and 1572, the tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s first wife, Empress Bega Begum, as an eternal resting place for the second Mughal Emperor.

Architecturally, the tomb served as a prototype for future Mughal structures, most notably the Taj Mahal.

Constructed mainly out of red sandstone and marble, the tomb is an architectural marvel with intricate carvings and a well-planned garden layout, known as a Charbagh which is divided into four main squares by pathways and water channels.

Each square is then subdivided into smaller ones creating a stunning geometric pattern when viewed from above.

Humayun’s Tomb holds the distinction of being the first Indian building to use the Persian double dome, an architectural element that later became significant in the Mughal style.

The complex is also home to several smaller monuments and tombs, including the tomb of Humayun’s wife.

In 1993, the tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has since attracted visitors from all corners of the world, making it one of India’s landmarks worth seeing.

25. Lotus Temple, Delhi

Lotus Temple is one of the famous Indian landmarks.

The Lotus Temple in Delhi is a marvel of modern architecture and a testament to India’s religious diversity.

Designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba and completed in 1986, this Bahá’í House of Worship draws inspiration from the shape of a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and peace.

Comprising 27 free-standing marble “petals,” the temple is an architectural feat that has won numerous awards.

Although relatively new compared to other landmarks, the Lotus Temple has rapidly gained recognition as one of the famous India landmarks.

The temple is surrounded by nine ponds and lush gardens, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals alike.

Over the years, the Lotus Temple has not only become a significant spiritual center but also a symbol of unity in diversity, something that resonates well with India’s multicultural fabric.

In fact, in 2001, the temple was acknowledged with the GlobArt Academy award in Vienna for its promotion of unity and harmony.

Final Thoughts on the Famous Landmarks in India

India is a country blessed with history, culture, impressive architecture, and a number of monuments that it can be hard to visit all of them in one visit.

So I hope that this post has helped you narrow down the Indian landmarks you shouldn’t miss while in the country.

Have you been to any of these famous landmarks of India? Which one of them was your favorite?

And if reading this post has inspired you to visit India, which one of these Indian monuments are you most excited to see? Let me know in the comments below!

Need more inspiration? Check out these landmarks below

  • Famous landmarks in Europe
  • Must-visit landmarks in Africa
  • Famous landmarks in China
  • Landmarks in Egypt you must visit
  • Famous landmarks to visit in France
  • The most important landmarks in Asia

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  • Unlocking Jaipurs Hidden Charms Must See Tourist Destinations Revealed

Unlocking Jaipur's Hidden Charms: 9 Must-See Tourist Destinations Revealed

india natural tourist attractions

Kumar Utkarsh Updated: Mar 21, 2024 9:00 AM IST

Top 9 Must-See Attractions for Visitors in Jaipur, India

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state in India is a vibrant city that's got a historic background and mesmerizing architecture. It's known as the "Pink City" because of its buildings that are colored pink. Jaipur has many attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy. Here are 9 top sites you should not miss when traveling to Jaipur:

Amber (Amer) Fort

  • Hilltop fortress with intricate stone carvings, mirrors, and courtyards
  • Originally built in 1592, with Hindu and Mughal architectural influences
  • Offers views of the scenic Maota Lake below

City Palace

  • Grand palace complex in Jaipur's city center, once home to Jaipur's royal family
  • Features a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles
  • Houses a museum with royal costumes, art, and manuscripts

Hawa Mahal "Palace of the Winds"

  • Iconic 5-story palace with nearly 1,000 windows crafted from red and pink sandstone
  • Built in 1799 to allow royal women to view street festivals anonymously
  • Unique beehive-like structure and intricate screens make it instantly recognizable

Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory

  • Collection of 18th century architectural instruments for tracking stars and predicting eclipses
  • Sundials, celestial globes, and other innovations demonstrate ancient Indian astronomy
  • Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010

Jaigarh Fort

  • 18th century hilltop fortress with impressive walls, bastions, and cannon foundries
  • Once protected Jaipur city and Amber Fort
  • Home to Jaivana, said to be world's largest cannon on wheels

Nahargarh "Tiger Fort"

  • Formidable 18th century fort overlooking Jaipur on the rugged Aravalli Hills
  • Originally built as a defensive fortification
  • Notable for its frescoes, gardens, and interconnected palaces

Albert Hall Museum

  • Jaipur's oldest museum, built in 1887 in Indo-Saracenic architectural style
  • Houses a large collection of artifacts related to history, art, culture, and more
  • Galleries showcase Rajasthani folk art, Mughal-era paintings, Egyptian mummies, and more

Galtaji Temple Complex

  • Sacred Hindu pilgrimage spot located amid craggy hills and natural springs
  • Main temple dedicated to monkey deity Hanuman with carved pavilions and pools
  • Home to hundred of monkeys that wander freely around temple grounds

Jal Mahal "Water Palace"

  • Beautiful red sandstone palace standing in the middle of serene Man Sagar Lake
  • Signature of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, with ornate balconies and towers
  • Offers picturesque views and reflections from lakefront promenades and ferries

Jaipur is a city filled with ancient forts, palaces, and vibrant bazaars. Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy beautiful scenery, this place has something to offer to everyone. If you want your trip to be one for the books then make sure you check off all of these attractions on your journey through the Pink City.

  • Topics News">Amber Fort
  • Topics News">Attractions
  • Topics News">forts
  • Topics News">Jaipur
  • Topics News">Jaipur's Hidden Gems
  • Topics News">museum
  • Topics News">palaces
  • Topics News">Tourist Attractions

india natural tourist attractions

Unlocking Jaipur's Hidden Charms: 9 Must-See Tourist Destinations Revealed

Top 9 must-see attractions for visitors in jaipur, india.

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state in India is a vibrant city that's got a historic background and mesmerizing architecture. It's known as the "Pink City" because of its buildings that are colored pink. Jaipur has many attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy. Here are 9 top sites you should not miss when traveling to Jaipur:

Amber (Amer) Fort

  • Hilltop fortress with intricate stone carvings, mirrors, and courtyards
  • Originally built in 1592, with Hindu and Mughal architectural influences
  • Offers views of the scenic Maota Lake below

City Palace

  • Grand palace complex in Jaipur's city center, once home to Jaipur's royal family
  • Features a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles
  • Houses a museum with royal costumes, art, and manuscripts

Hawa Mahal "Palace of the Winds"

  • Iconic 5-story palace with nearly 1,000 windows crafted from red and pink sandstone
  • Built in 1799 to allow royal women to view street festivals anonymously
  • Unique beehive-like structure and intricate screens make it instantly recognizable

Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory

  • Collection of 18th century architectural instruments for tracking stars and predicting eclipses
  • Sundials, celestial globes, and other innovations demonstrate ancient Indian astronomy
  • Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010

Jaigarh Fort

  • 18th century hilltop fortress with impressive walls, bastions, and cannon foundries
  • Once protected Jaipur city and Amber Fort
  • Home to Jaivana, said to be world's largest cannon on wheels

Nahargarh "Tiger Fort"

  • Formidable 18th century fort overlooking Jaipur on the rugged Aravalli Hills
  • Originally built as a defensive fortification
  • Notable for its frescoes, gardens, and interconnected palaces

Albert Hall Museum

  • Jaipur's oldest museum, built in 1887 in Indo-Saracenic architectural style
  • Houses a large collection of artifacts related to history, art, culture, and more
  • Galleries showcase Rajasthani folk art, Mughal-era paintings, Egyptian mummies, and more

Galtaji Temple Complex

  • Sacred Hindu pilgrimage spot located amid craggy hills and natural springs
  • Main temple dedicated to monkey deity Hanuman with carved pavilions and pools
  • Home to hundred of monkeys that wander freely around temple grounds

Jal Mahal "Water Palace"

  • Beautiful red sandstone palace standing in the middle of serene Man Sagar Lake
  • Signature of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, with ornate balconies and towers
  • Offers picturesque views and reflections from lakefront promenades and ferries

Jaipur is a city filled with ancient forts, palaces, and vibrant bazaars. Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy beautiful scenery, this place has something to offer to everyone. If you want your trip to be one for the books then make sure you check off all of these attractions on your journey through the Pink City.

Feature Image Jaipur Tourist Attractions

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dekho apna desh

“Whether it is music or food, art or culture, the diversity of India is truly majestic. From the high Himalayas to dense forests, from the dry deserts to beautiful beaches, from adventure sports to meditation retreats, India has something for everyone.”

Choose your favorite tourist attractions across various categories as part of Dekho Apna Desh, People’s Choice 2024

Your choices will enable the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to identify attractions and destinations for development in mission mode, contributing to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat@2047

Spiritual

Incredible India

india natural tourist attractions

For more information, refer to the Terms & Conditions

india natural tourist attractions

Follow the WhatsApp channel to receive information about Dekho Apna Desh, People’s Choice 2024

देखो अपना देश पीपुल्स चॉइस 2024 के बारे में जानकारी प्राप्त करने के लिए व्हाट्सएप चैनल को फॉलो करें ।

Choose your favorite tourist attractions across various categories as part of Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice 2024

Cultural & Heritage

We welcome you to participate in ‘Dekho Apna Desh, People’s Choice 2024’ a tourist destination poll by the Ministry of Tourism

The key objective of this initiative is to seek public participation and encourage them to choose their favorite tourist attractions across various categories to honor India’s treasures and hidden gems.

Participants can input their favorite tourist attractions into five defined categories that align with their preferences. It's mandatory for participants to select at least one attraction they have already visited from any of the five categories and choose at least one attraction that they wish to visit in the future.

The winning attractions identified will enable the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to develop attractions and destinations in mission mode, contributing to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat@2047

Eligibility Criteria

Voting is open for individuals residing in and outside of India

Participants residing in India must have an Indian Mobile Number Participants residing outside of India must have an Email-ID

Participants can vote only once per mobile number and/or email ID

india natural tourist attractions

How to Vote

Voting will be conducted online.

Registration:

Participants residing in India will receive an OTP on their Mobile Number.

Participants residing outside India will receive an OTP on their Email ID.

Voting Questions:

Participants are required to answer in two main parts:

Question 1 (Vote for Attractions You Have Visited):

Question 2 (Vote for Attractions You Want to Visit):

Voting Categories:

Participants can vote for up to three attractions in one to five categories in Question 1

  • Cultural & Heritage
  • Nature & Wildlife

Voting Input Field:

Participants can enter their response and select from drop-down options that appears. In case of 'Other' category of Question 1 and/or Question 2, Participants can also select the checkbox to input tourist attractions of their choice.

Certificate:

All Participants will be able download a certificate of participation which can also be shared on social media.

Submission Deadline:

All votes must be submitted before the deadline specified in the Timeline. Late submissions will not be considered.

india natural tourist attractions

Winning Attractions

Winning Attractions will be decided based on the highest number of votes received. The Ministry reserves the final right to choose and award the winner at their sole discretion.

Final Authority:

The decision of the Ministry will be final in determining the winners.

No appeals or re-evaluations will be entertained.

Lucky Draw (if any)

  • At the sole discretion of the Ministry, a Lucky Draw Contest will also occur.
  • Participants are automatically entered into the Lucky Draw when they submit a vote.
  • The prizes will be determined by the Ministry, if any.
  • Participants cannot claim any losses from the Ministry.

india natural tourist attractions

General Terms & Conditions

Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully as they apply for the ‘Dekho Apna Desh, People’s Choice 2024’ Initiative. To be eligible to participate, the participants must accept these Terms and Conditions.

  • Participants must not provide any false information in the registration process.
  • Participants must keep their contact information accurate and up-to-date.
  • The participants will not use this voting initiative to do anything unlawful, misleading, malicious, or discriminatory.
  • If any participant is determined to have violated the terms of the contest, the Ministry will have all rights to disqualify the participant without prior notice.
  • If required, the Ministry may change the terms and conditions.
  • The Ministry decision is final and cannot be challenged.
  • The Ministry reserve the right in their sole discretion to withdraw participation of any individual or reject any submission at any point of time during the process.

Start Date : 7th March, 2024

End Date : 30th April, 2024

For more information, refer to the extended Terms & Conditions Click here

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    7. KASHMIR. One of the magnificent lakes of Kashmir with beautiful mountain scenery in the background. Kashmir is a picturesque scenery with deep, lush green valleys and unique mountain formations of The Great Himalayas that surround the most brilliant lakes.

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    Natural Tourist Attractions in India. The Himalayan Mountains Image Source. India is home to a significant portion of the Himalayas, the world's highest mountain range. The snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest, draw trekkers, climbers, and spiritual seekers to destinations like Manali, Shimla, and Rishikesh.

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    Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mumbai. 7. Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad. Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad. Construction of Hyderabad's Mecca Masjid, one of the world's largest mosques - and one of the oldest in India - began in 1614 during Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah's reign and took almost 80 years to complete.

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    India is an interesting travel destination and comprised of many wonderful tourist attractions that can add charm to your travel experiences. Magnetic hills, floating islands, vanishing beaches, and more are some fascinating things about this country that come under natural wonders.

  8. The Most Beautiful Places for Nature Lovers in India

    Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh. Unscathed by modern civilization, the Ziro in north-eastern India is blessed with abundant natural beauty. Vast expanses of paddy fields, rolling green hills with abundant flora, quaint villages and its virgin beauty attract many nature lovers. Besides, this place is also a treat for adventure seekers, trekkers and ...

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    When visiting Chail, make sure to explore Sadhupul Lake, which is a popular tourist spot. ... Bactrian camels, and expansive orchards. It is considered one of the best natural places in India and has attractions such as Klosters, dunes, and an abandoned palace. Visitors to Nubra Valley can enjoy the beauty of nature, go on camel safaris, take ...

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    20. McLeod Ganj. Map of Places to Visit in India. 1. Agra. Taj Mahal in Agra. If there was just one symbol to represent all of India, it would be the Taj Mahal. The monument inspires millions of tourists to make the trip to Agra every year, waking up before dawn to see magnificent structure radiate at sunrise.

  11. 27 Top Tourist Attractions in India (+Photos)

    India is a vast and diverse country with countless attractions to explore. From the majestic Himalayas to the tropical Kerala, from the sacred Ganges to the desert of Thar, India offers a rich cultural and natural heritage. Discover the 27 top tourist attractions in India with photos and maps, and plan your next unforgettable trip with Touropia.

  12. 7 of the most incredible natural wonders in India

    Located on River Kaveri, in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, the Hogenakkal Falls is counted amongst the most stunning tourist attractions in the country. One can spend hours looking at the milky-white water lashing down the heights along with the constant sound of the gushing water, which is soothing to the ears.

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    India the land of attractions offers some of the best landscapes in the world along with amazing natural wonders and sceneries. Apart from the top 20 must see places across India, here is the list of most beautiful natural scenic attractions to explore around the country. Must Visit Tourist Destinations Before They Vanish Snow Capped Peaks -Munsiyari

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    Enjoy the stunning sight of Deccan traps, which look like an elephant's trunk. This one of seven wonders of India has 3 points in total viz Kate's Point, Echo Point, and Needle Hole Point. Apart from this spot, the town of Mahabaleshwar also has many ravishing tourist attractions that extremely serene and picture-worthy.

  15. 10 Best Nature Places in India That are Surrogate of Heaven

    It has an average depth of 148 meters and is almost 1832 meters long. Reckoned as one of the most scenic natural tourist places in India, the unique ecosystem of the lake will make you rub your eyes in disbelief. ... Major attractions of Khajjiar include the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary and Dal Lake. Best Time to Visit Khajjiar: Visiting India's ...

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    India is an interesting travel destination and comprised of many wonderful tourist attractions that can add charm to your travel experiences. Magnetic hill, floating island, vanishing beach and more are some fascinating things about this country that come under natural wonders.

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    One of the city's most popular tourist attractions, it houses a number of museums. ... The lake, spanning 134 kilometers and sitting at a height of 4,350 meters, is a natural border between China ...

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    Natural Tourist Attractions in South India Munnar, Kerala: Image by Nandhu Kumar from Pixabay. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a hill station renowned for its sprawling tea plantations, misty valleys, and cool climate. The lush landscapes are perfect for trekking, and the aroma of fresh tea leaves wafts through the air, adding to the ...

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    6. Feel the presence of the divine at the Golden Temple, Amritsar. The best time to experience Amritsar 's sublime Golden Temple is at 4am (5am in winter) when the revered scripture of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib, is installed inside the temple for the day amid the hum of ritual chanting.

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    Here is the list of 56 Best Tourist Attractions in India. 1. Taj Mahal, Agra. View 38+ photos. The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world and is considered to be the most popular tourist attraction in India. A symbol of love, the Taj was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his queen Mumtaz.

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    11. Amer Fort, Jaipur. Cradled on top of Aravalli hill, Amer Fort or Amber Fort is one of the most majestic palaces in India. Located 11km (6.8 mi) from the pink city of Jaipur, it is arguably one of the grandest forts and one of the most famous buildings in India attracting millions of visitors every year.

  23. Natural Tourist Attractions in South India

    South India's natural beauty is a captivating blend of diverse landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. Whether you're exploring the backwaters of Kerala, hiking through the Western Ghats, or lounging on Goa's beaches, South India offers a wide range of natural tourist attractions that will leave you awe-inspired and eager to explore more of ...

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    Top 9 Must-See Attractions for Visitors in Jaipur, India. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state in India is a vibrant city that's got a historic background and mesmerizing architecture. It's known as the "Pink City" because of its buildings that are colored pink. Jaipur has many attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy.

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  26. Dekho Apna Desh, People's Choice 2024

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