Destinations in India to Experience the Country's Diverse Charm
Ah, it's so hard to choose! What are the best tourist places in India? A lot of the time, it comes down to personal preference. However, some places to visit in India remain perennially more popular than others. These are among the best destinations in India.
01 of 16: Best for Monuments: Delhi -
Most first time travelers to India usually land in Delhi, India's capital city. It can be quite a culture shock. The city is primed to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. However, bear with it! Delhi's top attractions feature spellbinding mosques, forts, and monuments left over from the Mughal rulers that once occupied the city. Many of these are set in beautiful landscaped gardens that are perfect for relaxing. And the crumbling old city of Old Delhi is a fascinating, albeit chaotic, place to explore. Plan your trip there with this Delhi city guide.
is worshipped around India in her many forms and incarnations. Some of the oldest temples In India are dedicated to the goddess. So, before every home in India prepares for ‘Her’ arrival on Diwali, let’s check out some of the renowned heritage Lakshmi temples of India.
1. Ashtalakshmi Temple, Chennai
Located near Elliot’s beach in Chennai, the Ashtalakshmi Temple complex has a shrine of all the eight avatars of the Goddess. Starting from shrines of the main deities of Lakshmi and her consort Vishnu, you have to go around to see the shrine of the goddess of wealth, offspring, success, prosperity, courage, food, knowledge and bravery. The temple’s foundation was laid in 1974 and its architecture is inspired by the Sundhiraja Perumal Temple in Uthiramerur.
2. Sripuram Golden Temple, Vellore
The Sripuram Golden Temple in Vellore has a shrine of the Goddess Lakshmi and a temple tower coated in gold foil. The temple, built over seven years, has a star-shaped path, which represents the Shri Chakra (wheel). It is one of the biggest temples in India and is located on a hill called Malaikodi in Vellore.
3. Lakshmi Devi Temple, Hassan
This temple, located inside a complex devoted to other Hindu gods and goddesses, dates back to the prestigious Hoysala period. It stands as one of the most important Lakshmi temples in India, and one of the oldest specimens of Hoysala architecture. The Lakshmi Devi Temple is located in Doddagaddavalli.
4. Lakshmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir), Delhi
Besides being an important site of worship for Hindus, the Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Delhi is also a popular tourist site. The temple was built back in 1939 by the entrepreneurs BR Birla and Vijay Tyagi. Bapu himself inaugurated this temple. The temple complex houses shrines devoted to Lord Ganesha, Devi Durga, Lord Hanuman along with a Buddhist shrine.
5. Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur
A trip to the Mahalakshmi Temple, when in Kolhapur, is a must for every religious person. This Shakti peetha is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and was built by the Chalukyas of Karnataka on the banks of the Panchganga River.
6. Mahalakshmi Temple, Mumbai
The legend behind the 300-year-old Mahalakshmi Temple on the edge of the city shore says that the shrine was not carved out, but appeared on the stone by itself. It is said that the idol emerged from the sea during the building of Hornby Vellard under colonial rule. Frequented mostly by women during Navratri, the Mahalakshmi Temple is open to people of all faiths.
7. Kaila Devi Temple, Karauli, Rajasthan
The Kaila Devi temple worships the incarnation of the Goddess of wealth, Kaila Devi. She is revered as the tutelary deity of Yadav and Rajput/Kirar/Banjara community rulers of Karauli district of Rajasthan, which is where the temple is located. The foundation of the temple was laid way back in 1723 by Maharaja Gopal Singh Ji and was completed in 1730.
Stay away from synthetic fabrics, only wear cotton clothes.
Have a fire extinguisher and keep a first aid kit ready in your home.
Don’t burn crackers in closed areas.
Don’t let kids burn aerial fireworks like rockets alone.
Never ever light a cracker while holding it in your hand.
From the sweet scent of traditional homemade delicacies to the joy of reuniting with your entire family, Diwali brings much more than an occasion to celebrate the people we surround ourselves with, and the religious history that shapes our spiritual existence today. Diwali celebration in India is a truly unforgettable experience. Plan a trip to an Indian destination where you’ll love to take part in the festival of lights and enjoy the traditions and warmth of the locals.
Traditionally, Diwali is celebrated on the third day of the festival. Like other famous festivals in India, the Diwali celebration across India
is done with great excitement and grandeur uniting the whole country. People usually wear new clothes on the night of Diwali, share gifts, and those who can afford to also buy silver or gold jewellery.
1. North India
(Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Srinagar, Delhi and Punjab), the Deepavali festival is celebrated with fireworks, lights, and, sweets. Lord Ganesha and goddess Lakshmi are also worshipped in Hindu homes on this day. If you’re in the capital, you shouldn’t miss the Diwali Mela in Delhi that lets you buy decor and food items for the festival and for the best Diwali celebration in India. Uttar Pradesh is also considered one of the best places to visit on Diwali!
2. East India
(West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, and Odisha), Diwali celebrations in East India is mainly the night of ancestors, and earthen oil lamps are lit on poles to guide the souls of the departed loved ones to heaven in Odisha. The people of West Bengal and Assam worship Goddess Kali on the night of the Diwali festival and offer prayers to their ancestors. The people of Bihar and Jharkhand perform Lakshmi pooja in the evening and women make rangolis on the verandah of their homes and temples. For witnessing Diwali in India, visit any of these places.
3. West India
(Gujarat and Maharashtra), rangoli is an important part of their Diwali decoration. While Gujaratis draw footprints of goddess Laxmi on the threshold of the house, light their homes with candles, rice lights, and diyas on the night of Diwali, Maharashtrians perform Lakshmi pooja in their homes and organize a feast known as “Faral” for families and friends, where sweets like karanji, ladoo and snacks like chakli and sev are served.
4. South India
(Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu), while Andhrites and Tamilians worship Lord Krishna and his wife Satyambha’s victory over the demonic King Narkasura, Kannadigas take oil baths and build forts from cow dung in their homes.
Candlelights, earthen lamps, homes filled with a sweet smell of delightful sweets, the warmth of families & friends, and the chill of the upcoming winter season, that’s how we’d like to paint a perfect picture of Diwali celebration in India.
Diwali—the “festival of lights” is the biggest festival in India, mainly celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains around the world. Commemorating the victory of good over evil, it is also an opportunity for people to move on, let go of past grudges, and make merry.
There is nothing more culturally exuberating than the celebration of an auspicious festival like Diwali, or as some people call it Deepavali. It presents with itself a time of the year where every individual reminisces of family, friends, home, togetherness, and many other aspects that this religious and socially auspicious festival brings together. It is much more than a celebration of folklore, it is childhood memories, it is being back with all family members after a long-time and it is the fireworks that light up the sky.
Let this little guide help you understand the significance of the Deepavali celebration in India and how Diwali is celebrated in India.
1.) Importance Of Diwali Celebration In India
A five-day festival, Diwali is celebrated as the homecoming of Lord Rama with Sita and Laxmana after a long exile of 14 years. Translated literally from Sanskrit, Diwali means a row of lights; diyas were first lit by the people of Ayodhya to welcome their King, Rama, after defeating Ravana. Some people in India also believe it to be the celebration of the marriage of Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi.
In most of the regions, Lord Ganesha, who is the god of wisdom and auspiciousness is worshipped on the day of Diwali. Diwali marks the anniversary of Nirvana or the liberation of Mahavira’s soul in Jainism. In West Bengal, Diwali is celebrated to worship goddess Kali, who is the goddess of Shakti, which means power and energy.
Amalgamation of different cultures and faiths can be seen in the best possible way if you visit North India. You will see the best examples of a melange of cultures and there are several reasons for it. However, the consequences have been quite delightful and there is no denying it. One of such North Indian states that best reflects the vivid hues by blending of cultures is Uttar Pradesh. No doubt Why? It is the land of different faiths, sages, two great Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, and various religions.
It is the Land of Lord Krishna, Rama, Buddha and Taj Mahal. This state is a perfect canvas painted in different colors to bring out a picture that is loved by all. Uttar Pradesh boasts aromatic and delectable Awadhi cuisine, the fine Chicken and brass work and majestic architecture. There is just about everything that you seek on a holiday in India and how better can it get if you can find it in one place! Uttar Pradesh truly reflects the glory of Indian culture and heritage.
1. Agra
The land of Taj, Agra has earned itself international fame for being a heritage hotspot in the country. Reflecting the architectural excellence of the Mughal Era, Agra stands on the bank of River Yamuna. The Mughal Empire has endowed Agra with architectural grandeurs like tombs and mausoleums; forts and palaces; gardens and mosques. A creative ground for the art lovers like Akbar, Shah Jahan and even the Lodi rulers, Agra is one such destination that alone brings a great boost in Uttar Pradesh tourism.
Top Tourist Attractions in Agra
Taj Mahal
Fatehpur Sikri
Sikandra
Itmad Ud Daulah
Soor Sarovar
Chausath Khamba
Roman Catholic Cemetery
Chini ka Rauza
Mariam’s Tomb
Chhatri of Raja Jaswant Singh
Dayal Bagh
Guru ka Taal
2. Mathura
‘Krishna Bhumi’ or the land of Krishna, Mathura is amongst the most visited places in Uttar Pradesh. The town near the famed Vrindavan is dotted with temples and a sacred Yamuna River flow past it. The entire area is lined with 25 Ghats, which are thronged by devotees at dawn and sunset. Mathura was once a Buddhist center and the home to thousands of monks and several monasteries, today all that remains of the old sights are the beautiful sculptures recovered from ruins.
Tourist Attractions in Mathura
Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir
Jama Masjid
Dwarkadhish Temple
Kusum Sarovar
Radha Kund
Kans Qila
Mathura Museum
Govardhan Hill
Vishram Ghat
Rangbhoomi
3. Vrindavan
Holding immense religious importance amongst Hindu devotees, Vrindavan is a place where the worshippers of Lord Krishna throng to seek the blessing. Dozens of temples, old and modern, dot the town and they come in all shapes and sizes holding their own peculiarities and stories. Each temple can be reached by narrow winding lanes that are plush with shops that sell worship items and sweets. One thing one has to be aware of are monkeys, who practically mug visitors. Visiting UP will be incomplete without exploring Vrindavan.
Top Tourist Attractions in Vrindavan
Govind Dev Temple
Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple
Keshi Ghat
Bankey Bihari Temple
Shahji Temple
Ranganatha Temple
Prem Mandir
Nidhivan
ISKCON Temple
Radha Damodar Temple
Madan Mohan Temple
Pagal Baba Temple
Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Temple
4. Varanasi
This religious city in Uttar Pradesh is said to be one of the oldest continually inhabited places in the world. It is one of the best and most popular travel destinations in UP. Sitting on the bank of River Ganges, Varanasi is known for its ghats and the winding lanes dotted with temples that come in all sizes and shapes. Haunt of Shiva devotees and home to some bizarrely-dressed sadhus, Varanasi is an absolutely a must visit place in Uttar Pradesh.
Top Tourist Attractions in Varanasi
Dasaswamedh Ghat
Assi Ghat
New Vishwanath Temple
Kathwala Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor
Monkey Temple
Bharat Mata Temple
Alamgir Mosque
Manmandir Ghat
Shivala Ghat
Scindia Ghat
Gyan Vapi Well
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Ramnagar Fort
5. Ayodhya
The much controversial yet sacred Ayodhya has been the most popular religious destination to explore in Uttar Pradesh for more than two decades now but the controversy has earned it an ambiguous international acclaim. The birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya besides its controversial site is a great place to take a plunge into the pool of spirituality. The city is dotted with temples and thus makes another apt place to go for a temple tour in Uttar Pradesh.
for a unique experience and a fun-filled vacay amidt the snow-capped mountains and the serene landscape. Experience heaven as we bring you the best places to visit in this piece of paradise nestled in Northern India. Take a look at the best Uttarakhand tourist places!
1. Dehradun And Mussoorie – Picturesque Location
The capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun has a picturesque location with a beautiful view of the Himalayan ranges and river Ganga flowing on either side of the city. Mussoorie is located at a distance of about 38 km from Dehradun. It is touted to be the ‘Queen of Hills’ and attracts many tourists every year to visit famous Uttrakhand destinations which also makes this themost beautiful place in Uttarakhand.
Why: ‘Coz there are only a few amazing weekend getaways like Dehradun and Mussoorie Ideal for: Peace lovers, honeymooners, family and friends Best time to visit: All around the year Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days How to reach: It takes around 5 hours to reach Dehradun from Delhi via road. From Dehradun, Mussoorie is just an hour journey away. The nearest airport is in Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport. Things to do: Visit the National Parks, Lakes, Kempty Falls, Benog Hill & Jwalaji Temple. Monastery, Resorts and Forest research institute in Dehradun Places To Stay: Ramada Dehradun Chakrata Road, AruBhi Cottage, Hotel Relax, Tapasya Home Stay, FabHotel Invitation
2. Nainital And Ranikhet – Popular Getaway
One of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand and a popular getaway for couples and families is Nainital. Located by the famous Naini Lake in the valley, surrounded by mountains on all sides where one can enjoy majestic vistas of nature here. Plus, there is plenty to explore with some interesting tourist places in Nanital. Also these are two of the places to visit in Uttarakhand in monsoon!
Why: The lush green sight of Nainital offers an exotic view of the Himalayan ranges. Enjoy the trekking trails in Ranikhet and go camping in the main sight of the location. Ideal for: Honeymoon couples, office goers, couples and families Best time to visit: All around the year Ideal duration: 4 to 5 days How to reach: Nainital does not have direct access to air connectivity. The nearest railway station is located at a distance of 34 km at Kathgodham. It takes about 7 hours from Delhi to reach Nainital. Things to do: Visit the host of temples at Ranikhet, go trekking, and visit the Nainital zoo and Naini Lake. Enjoy the wildlife sanctuary and the wonderful climate of the hill station. Places To Stay: Kainchi Dham Hilly Homestay , Hotel Chandra Inn Royal Rose, The Manu Maharani, The Naini Retreat
3. Jim Corbett – Wildlife Heaven
If you’re looking for famous Uttarakhand tourist places then this pace is a must visit. Formerly known as Haley’s National Park, Jim Corbett was established in 1938 and attracts visitors for its Royal Bengal Tigers.
The park is home to some 600 species of birds, an equal number of animals and around 488 different types of plants and trees and is amongst the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Jim corbett organises safaris and hiking trails through the dense forest’s buffer zones all through the year. Safari tour also remains one of the best things to do in Jim Corbett.
Why: ‘Coz this is the place you can’t miss if you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer and nature lover. Best time to visit: All year-round, except Monsoon (June to August) Ideal for: Nature enthusiast, photographers, excursionists Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days How to reach: Ramnagar is the nearest railway staion while Dehradun Airport is the nearest airport. It is well connected by road and there are regular bus services from Ramnagar and Delhi. Things to do: Elephant rides, elephant safaris, Jeep safaris, photography, and unplanned excursions Places To Stay: Lebua Corbett, The Den Corbett Resort, Vanghat Jungle Lodge, The Riverview Retreat, Lemon Tree Premier, Corbett
4. Rishikesh And Haridwar – Adventure Capital
Another place you definitely must visit in Uttarakhand is the adventure capital–Rishikesh and pilgrim capital–Haridwar. Haridwar is a place where tourists get enchanted by rustic touch and spiritual energy of the place and its surroundings. Rishikesh is considered to be one of the best exotic places to visit in Uttarakhand. Some of the thrilling things to do in Rishikesh include river rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking and many more.
Why: Rishikesh as it is the adventure capital of India; Haridwar for the tranquility and religion. Ideal for: Everyone – friends, couples and families. Best time to visit: Anytime of the year is good except monsoons. Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days How to reach: Nearest airport is in Dehradun. Trains connect both Rishikesh and Haridwar. Things to do: Take part in the Ganga aarti in Haridwar, a holy dip in the river Ganga, go for a boat ride, eat the local delicacies and talk to the spiritual gurus. Visit the ashrams in Rishikesh; go for water sports adventures in Rishikesh and trekking up in the hills. Places To Stay: Om Shivaay Inn, Shaantam Resorts and Spa, Shiv Shakti Hostel, Swiss Cottage Rishikesh, Hill Top Swiss Cottage
5. Almora – Famous Offbeat Places
From Uttarakhand points of interest, Almora is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, especially in summer to escape the heat. The picturesque views of Almora are especially recommended to the mountain lovers. The romantic destination allures you with its magnificent beauty. This is one of the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand.
Why: Because the serenity and peace that Almora offers is hard to find so easily. Ideal for: Romantic couples, solo travelers, adventure folks Best time to visit: Anytime throughout the years except monsoons Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days How to reach: Nearest airport is Pantnagar, at a distance of 116 km away from Almora and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam 90 km away. Things to do: Shop for handicraft products, enjoy the natural setting, go for trekking Places To Stay: Stars & Pines, Kasar Himalaya Holiday Home, Hotel Kausani Retreat, Jungle house homestay
This statement is absolutely correct! If you have ever wondered what heaven must look like, you should visit Jammu and Kashmir. And if you are planning to visit the state during winters, you will even fall more for the destination.
Let us discuss some of the Jammu Kashmir tourist places in winter.
1. Srinagar – Heaven On Earth
Srinagar is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and famous places to visit in Kashmir as well as in India. From boating to trekking, bird watching to water skiing, Srinagar place has it all. Locally this place is known as the mirror to the mountains, Srinagar is a first stopover for every traveler and there are a long list of places to visit in Srinagar, Kashmir. The largest city of Kashmir, this place is enclosed by the green mountains and the main highlight being the Dal Lake which is the gem of the city. This place gives a close outlook to the Kashmiri cuisine and the state’s culture.
Best Time To Visit: June to October, and for snow you must visit Srinagar in December or January Things To Do In Srinagar: Stay in the boat house, Visit the Mughal gardens, Take the shikara ride How To Reach:
By Air: Srinagar Domestic Airport is well-connected to all the major cities in India and you can easily board a flight and read Srinagar.
By Bus: Board a government or private bus to Srinagar.
By Train: Jammu is the nearest railway station.
Places To Stay: Four Points, Shamus Javed Home Stay, S Group Of Houseboat, Radisson Srinagar, Hotel Fabulous Kashmir Places To Visit: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Nishat Bagh
2. Gulmarg – Ski Your Way
Famously known as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’, Gulmarg is a treat to the eyes with its spread of vibrant flowers against snow capped mountains as backgrounds. Gulmarg is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Kashmir for all right reasons. This region of Kashmir is also known as the adventurer’s paradise because of its vast options of skiing in the snow while enjoying the views around. The best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall is in winter season i.e. December-January.
Best Time To Visit: June to October, and for snow December & January would be the best Things to do in Gulmarg: Mountain Biking, trekking, Skiing if you visit in winters and Gondola rides for a panoramic view of the valley. How To Reach:
By Air: You can board a flight till Srinagar Airport and then hire a cab till Gulmarg and reach in 3 hours.
By Bus: Take a bus till Srinagar and then you can take a connecting bus till Gulmarg.
By Train: Jammu is the nearest railway station.
Places To Stay: Heevan Retreat Gulmarg, Hotel Affarwat, Nedous Hotel Gulmarg, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, The Rosewood Places To Visit: Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Strawberry Field, Apharwat Peak
3. Sonamarg – The Land Of Gold
Sonamarg, as the name suggests, is famous as the ‘Meadow of Gold’. An endless stream of stunning flowers and undulated trekking routes are its attractions. Sonamarg has to be in every visitors’ list of places to visit in Kashmir for its mesmerizing aura and breathtaking views. The best season to visit Kashmir would be in summer i.e. May-June when the valley is blooming with variegated flowers.
Best Time To Visit: June through October, December & January for snow Things to do in Sonamarg: Trekking, Camping and nature walks How To Reach:
By Air: Srinagar airport is located at a distance of 70 km from Sonmarg and you can taxi from the airport and reach easily.
By Bus: Take a bus till Srinagar and then you can take a connecting bus till Sonamarg.
By Train: Jammu is the nearest railway station.
Places To Stay: Sheen Woods Resort, Hotel Barzman, Hotel Snow Land, Hotel Akbar Sonamarg , Hotel Village Walk
4. Leh – 3 Idiot’s Location
Leh is one of the best and safe places to visit in Kashmir in summers. The lofty mountains, the alpine lakes, and the quaint settings enable Leh one of the best places to visit. This place is every biker’s dreamland. Clad in the beauty and love of nature, Leh offers breathtaking views, leaving no visitor disappointed. You must explore all the top places to visit in Leh when traveling to Kashmir.
Best Time To Visit: April to June, September to October. Most of the tracks are closed after November due to heavy snowfalls Things To Do: Trekking and Mountain Biking is all it takes to give you a lifetime worth memories How To Reach:
By Air: Take a flight till Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
By Bus: Take a bus till Srinagar and then you can take a connecting bus till Leh.
By Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station.
Places To Stay: Hotel Ladakh Greens, The Empyrean House, Raybo Hostel, The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Laksdup Guest House Places To Visit: Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Kargil
5. Vaishno Devi Temple – A Popular Site
Vaishno Devi Temple is among the most visited Hindu shrines in the world, millions of pilgrims visit this temple each year. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi and as per the belief whatever you wish for here gets granted. The cave-styled temple is located at an altitude of 5200 ft above sea level, so people have to trek to the top from a point. Other than walking you can also opt for helicopter services, pony ride or palanquin to reach Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the best places to visit in Jammu.
Entry fee: None Timing: 5 pm – 12 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm Famous for: Being the most important pilgrimage site in the union of J&K
