India is a land of contrasts and diversity, where ancient tradition meets modernity, and where nature and culture collide in a beautiful way. It's a destination that will leave an unforgettable mark on any traveler's mind. With so many destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to India for the first time. This guide will help you narrow down your options and make the most of your visit with a list of the top 10 must-see destinations in India.
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Taj Mahal, Agra:
No trip to India would be complete without visiting the Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic buildings in the world. This stunning marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal and it is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the grounds and explore the intricate carvings and artwork that adorn the building.
Jaipur, Rajasthan:
Also known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan and is famous for its magnificent forts, palaces, and traditional havelis (mansions). Visitors can explore the City Palace, a magnificent blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, or take a camel safari through the surrounding desert. The Hawa Mahal, a palace famous for its intricate facade, is also a must-see.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Ganges river to see the Ghats, a series of steps leading down to the river where devotees come to bathe and perform rituals. The city is also famous for its silk weaving, and visitors can visit one of the local silk factories to see the process firsthand.
Kerala Backwaters:
The Kerala Backwaters are a network of canals, lagoons, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Visitors can take a traditional houseboat or kettuvallam ride and explore the backwaters while enjoying the local scenery and wildlife. Many houseboats also offer traditional Kerala meals, so it's an excellent opportunity to taste the local cuisine.
Goa:
Goa is a small state located on the west coast of India that is famous for its beautiful beaches, churches, and forts. Visitors can take a bike tour and explore the beaches, and visit the Dudhsagar waterfall, one of the most famous landmarks in Goa. Some popular beaches are Anjuna, Morjim, and Calangute.
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh:
Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for its group of Hindu and Jain temples that are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures. Visitors can explore the temples and learn about the history and significance of these ancient structures. The temples are divided into three groups: Western, Eastern and Southern.
Hampi, KarnATAKA:
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for its ruined city, the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Visitors can explore the temples, palaces, and monuments that remain from this ancient city and learn about the history of the Vijayanagara Empire. Popular attractions include the Vittala Temple and the Virupaksha Temple.
Mumbai, Maharashtra:
Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is the capital of the state of Maharashtra and is India's largest city. Visitors can explore the famous Gateway of India, a historic monument that was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. The famous Marine Drive, a promenade that runs along the coast, is also a must-see. Visitors can also visit the famous film city to know about the Indian film industry popularly known as Bollywood.
Leh and Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir:
Leh and Ladakh are located in the remote region of Jammu and Kashmir, in the Himalayan mountain range. Visitors can explore the high-altitude deserts and take in the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Visitors can also visit the famous Pangong Tso lake, which is known for its spectacular blue color.
Darjeeling, West Bengal:
Darjeeling is a hill station located in the state of West Bengal, famous for its tea plantations and colonial architecture. Visitors can take a toy train ride and explore the tea gardens or take a walk through the charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings. Visitors can also take a cable car ride to Tiger Hill to see the sunrise over the Himalayas.
These are the top 10 must-see destinations in India, but there are countless more to explore. With a little planning, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy all that India has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or nature, India has something to offer everyone.
