Top 10 Places to Visit in India

Experience the incredible diversity of India - from ancient heritage and vibrant cities to spiritual journeys and breathtaking wildlife. Discover eco-tourism initiatives, colorful cultural festivals, and improved infrastructure that make exploring this magical land more accessible than ever.

1. Taj Mahal, Agra — Eternal Symbol of Love

The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Emperor Shah Jahan's enduring monument of love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This architectural marvel blends Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. The intricate marble inlay with semi-precious stones and the reflecting pool create a symmetrical masterpiece that changes hues with sunlight. At sunset, it glows golden, and under a full moon, it appears to float in a dreamlike haze.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Witnessing the sunrise over the white marble monument
  • Exploring the intricate marble inlay work with semi-precious stones
  • Viewing the Taj Mahal under a full moon (on full moon nights)

Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant weather; full moon nights for a magical experience

Don't Miss

  • Mehtab Bagh for sunset views across the Yamuna River
  • Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj)

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (AGR) - 7km from city center

By Train: Agra Cantonment Railway Station (AGC) - well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities

By Road: Excellent road connectivity via Yamuna Expressway from Delhi (200km, 3-4 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (October-March): Pleasant weather, 10-25°C, ideal for sightseeing
  • Summer (April-June): Hot, 30-45°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (July-September): Rainy, lush greenery, but humidity is high

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 1 day
  • Recommended: 2 days to explore Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri
  • Extended Stay: 3 days including nearby Mathura and Vrindavan

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹1100 (Foreigners) / $0.67, $14.67
  • Budget: ₹1500-3000/day / $20-$40 (mid-range)
  • Guide: ₹1000-1500 / $13-$20 for a 2-hour tour

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: The Oberoi Amarvilas (₹25,000+ / $333+), ITC Mughal (₹15,000-20,000 / $200-$267)
  • Mid-range: Hotel Taj Resorts (₹4000-6000 / $53-$80), Crystal Sarovar Premiere (₹5000-7000 / $67-$93)
  • Budget: Hotel Sidhartha (₹1500-2500 / $20-$33), Zostel Agra (₹800-1500 / $11-$20)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Agra is generally safe for tourists. Beware of touts and unofficial guides.
  • Health: Carry water and sun protection. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Mehtab Bagh for a stunning sunset view of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River
  • Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, often called the "Baby Taj," which predates the Taj Mahal
  • Ram Bagh, one of the oldest Mughal gardens in India

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan — The Pink City's Royal Charm

Step into a world of royal grandeur in Jaipur, where every corner tells a story of valor and opulence. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is India's first planned city, designed according to Vastu Shastra principles. The city's distinctive pink-washed buildings, which earned it the nickname "Pink City," were painted this color to welcome Prince Albert in 1876.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Exploring the magnificent Amber Fort and its intricate mirror work
  • Witnessing the astronomical instruments at Jantar Mantar observatory
  • Shopping for traditional textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts in vibrant bazaars

Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant weather; July for Teej Festival

Don't Miss

  • Amber Fort with its stunning Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace)
  • City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture
  • Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its unique honeycomb facade

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (JAI) - 13km from city center

By Train: Jaipur Junction Railway Station (JP) - well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities

By Road: Excellent connectivity via NH48 from Delhi (280km, 5-6 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (October-March): Pleasant weather, 15-25°C, ideal for sightseeing
  • Summer (April-June): Hot, 30-45°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (July-September): Rainy, lush greenery, Teej Festival in July

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 2 days
  • Recommended: 3 days to explore forts, palaces, and nearby attractions
  • Extended Stay: 4-5 days including Pushkar and Ajmer

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fees: Amber Fort - ₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners) / $1.33, $6.67; City Palace - ₹200 (Indians), ₹700 (Foreigners) / $2.67, $9.33
  • Budget: ₹2000-4000/day / $27-$53 (mid-range)
  • Guide: ₹1500-2000 / $20-$27 for a full-day tour

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Rambagh Palace (₹30,000+ / $400+), Taj Jai Mahal Palace (₹25,000-35,000 / $333-$467)
  • Mid-range: Hilton Jaipur (₹8000-12000 / $107-$160), Clarks Amer (₹7000-10000 / $93-$133)
  • Budget: Zostel Jaipur (₹800-1500 / $11-$20), Moustache Hostel (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Jaipur is generally safe for tourists. Be cautious in crowded markets.
  • Health: Carry water and sun protection. Stay hydrated in summer.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Panna Meena ka Kund stepwell with its symmetrical stairs
  • Nahargarh Biological Park for a unique wildlife experience
  • Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing showcasing traditional block printing

3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh — Spiritual Heart of India

Experience the profound spirituality of Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back over 3,000 years. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India and a major pilgrimage center for Hindus, who believe that dying here grants moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).

Highlights & Experiences

  • Witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at dusk
  • Taking a boat ride at dawn to see the sun rise over the sacred river
  • Exploring the ancient ghats and temples of this spiritual city

Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant weather; November for Dev Deepawali

Don't Miss

  • Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples
  • Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) - 26km from city center

By Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Manduadih Railway Station (MUV) - well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities

By Road: Well-connected via NH19 from Lucknow (320km, 6-7 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (October-March): Pleasant weather, 15-25°C, ideal for sightseeing
  • Summer (April-June): Hot, 30-45°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (July-September): Rainy, humid, Dev Deepawali in November

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 2 days
  • Recommended: 3 days to explore ghats, temples, and Sarnath
  • Extended Stay: 4-5 days including nearby Buddhist sites

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fees: Most temples are free, but donations are appreciated
  • Boat Ride: ₹200-500 / $2.67-$6.67 for a sunrise tour
  • Budget: ₹1500-3000/day / $20-$40 (mid-range)

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Taj Nadesar Palace (₹40,000+ / $533+), BrijRama Palace (₹25,000-35,000 / $333-$467)
  • Mid-range: Hotel Clarks Varanasi (₹5000-8000 / $67-$107), Rivatas by Ideal (₹4000-7000 / $53-$93)
  • Budget: Zostel Varanasi (₹800-1500 / $11-$20), Moustache Hostel (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Varanasi is generally safe but be cautious in crowded areas.
  • Health: Drink only bottled water. Be cautious with street food.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Kedar Ghat for a more peaceful experience away from the crowds
  • Ramnagar Fort and Museum across the river
  • Tulsi Manas Temple with verses from the Ramcharitmanas

4. Kerala Backwaters — Serene Waterways of God's Own Country

Drift through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful villages. The Kerala backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets stretching along the coast, offering a unique ecosystem that supports a rich diversity of aquatic life and bird species.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Overnight stay on a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat
  • Witnessing stunning sunsets over the backwaters
  • Experiencing traditional Kerala cuisine with fresh seafood

Best Time to Visit

September to March for pleasant weather; August for Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Don't Miss

  • Alleppey (Alappuzha) for houseboat experiences
  • Kumarakom for its bird sanctuary and luxury resorts
  • Pathiramanal Island for migratory birds

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) - 45km from Alleppey

By Train: Alleppey Railway Station (ALLP) - well connected to major cities

By Road: Well-connected via NH66 from Cochin (55km, 1.5 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (September-March): Pleasant weather, 20-30°C, ideal for backwater cruising
  • Summer (April-May): Hot, 30-35°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (June-August): Heavy rains, lush greenery, Nehru Trophy Boat Race in August

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 2 days
  • Recommended: 3 days for a full houseboat experience
  • Extended Stay: 4-5 days including Munnar hill station

Cost Tips

  • Houseboat Cost: ₹8000-15000/night / $107-$200 (depending on luxury level)
  • Budget: ₹3000-6000/day / $40-$80 (mid-range)
  • Ayurvedic Massage: ₹1500-3000 / $20-$40 for a session

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Kumarakom Lake Resort (₹25,000+ / $333+), Taj Malabar Resort & Spa (₹20,000-30,000 / $267-$400)
  • Mid-range: Backwater Ripples (₹8000-12000 / $107-$160), Punnamada Resort (₹7000-10000 / $93-$133)
  • Budget: Zostel Kochi (₹800-1500 / $11-$20), Hostel Tree (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Kerala is generally safe for tourists. Houseboats are well-regulated.
  • Health: Use mosquito repellent. Drink only bottled water.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Pathiramanal Island, a small island known for migratory birds
  • Traditional coir-making villages
  • Marari Beach, relatively untouched by mass tourism

5. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir — Land of High Passes

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh, a high-altitude desert surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Often referred to as "Little Tibet," Ladakh is a region of stark beauty, with its barren mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient monasteries. The region's unique culture, heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, is evident in its colorful prayer flags, whitewashed stupas, and monastic festivals.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Visiting ancient monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis
  • Witnessing the stunning Pangong Tso Lake that changes color
  • Exploring Nubra Valley with its sand dunes and Bactrian camels

Best Time to Visit

May to September for pleasant weather; June for Hemis Festival

Don't Miss

  • Pangong Tso Lake with its changing colors
  • Nubra Valley, accessible via the world's highest motorable road
  • Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest in Ladakh

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh - well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar

By Road: Manali-Leh Highway (475km, 2 days) or Srinagar-Leh Highway (434km, 2 days) - open only in summer

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (May-September): Pleasant weather, 15-25°C, ideal for sightseeing
  • Autumn (October-November): Cold, 5-15°C, clear skies
  • Winter (December-April): Extreme cold, -20 to 5°C, many roads closed

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 5 days (including acclimatization)
  • Recommended: 7 days to explore Leh, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Lake
  • Extended Stay: 10 days including Tso Moriri Lake and trekking

Cost Tips

  • Permits: Inner Line Permit required for Indian nationals; Protected Area Permit for foreigners (₹400-600 / $5.33-$8)
  • Budget: ₹3000-6000/day / $40-$80 (mid-range)
  • Trekking: ₹1500-2500/day / $20-$33 including guide and equipment

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: The Grand Dragon Ladakh (₹15,000-20,000 / $200-$267), The Leh Palace Hotel (₹12,000-18,000 / $160-$240)
  • Mid-range: Hotel Singge Palace (₹4000-6000 / $53-$80), Ladakh Residency (₹3000-5000 / $40-$67)
  • Budget: Zostel Leh (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27), Stok Palace Heritage Hotel (₹2000-3500 / $27-$47)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Altitude: Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness. Stay hydrated.
  • Health: Carry Diamox for altitude sickness. Sun protection is essential.
  • Visa: Protected Area Permit required for foreigners. Available in Leh.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Alchi Monastery with its exquisite Indo-Tibetan art
  • Tso Moriri Lake, a high-altitude lake less crowded than Pangong Tso
  • Magnetic Hill where vehicles appear to defy gravity
Goa Beaches

6. Goa — Sun, Sand, and Portuguese Heritage

Experience the perfect blend of pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage in Goa. India's smallest state, Goa was a Portuguese colony for over 450 years, and this influence is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and way of life. The state is divided into North and South Goa, each offering a different experience - North Goa is known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling beaches, while South Goa offers serene, less crowded shores.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Relaxing on pristine beaches like Palolem and Agonda
  • Exploring Portuguese heritage in Old Goa and Fontainhas
  • Experiencing vibrant nightlife in North Goa

Best Time to Visit

November to February for pleasant weather; February for Goa Carnival

Don't Miss

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus, housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier
  • Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Anjuna Flea Market for unique souvenirs

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (GOI) - 30km from Panjim

By Train: Madgaon (MAO) and Thivim (THVM) Railway Stations - well connected to major cities

By Road: Well-connected via NH66 from Mumbai (600km, 10-12 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (November-February): Pleasant weather, 20-30°C, ideal for beach activities
  • Summer (March-May): Hot, 30-35°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (June-October): Heavy rains, lush greenery, Goa Carnival in February

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 3 days
  • Recommended: 5 days to explore both North and South Goa
  • Extended Stay: 7 days including nearby Gokarna

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fees: Most beaches are free; churches and forts have nominal entry fees (₹50-200 / $0.67-$2.67)
  • Budget: ₹2500-5000/day / $33-$67 (mid-range)
  • Water Sports: ₹1000-3000 / $13-$40 per activity

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa (₹25,000+ / $333+), The Leela Goa (₹20,000-30,000 / $267-$400)
  • Mid-range: Novotel Goa Resort & Spa (₹8000-12000 / $107-$160), Acron Waterfront Resort (₹7000-10000 / $93-$133)
  • Budget: Zostel Goa (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27), Anjoned Hostel (₹1500-2500 / $20-$33)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Goa is generally safe. Be cautious with belongings on beaches.
  • Health: Use sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Drink bottled water.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Butterfly Beach in South Goa, accessible only by boat or forest trail
  • Divar Island, untouched by mass tourism
  • Arvalem Waterfalls and nearby rock-cut caves
Ranthambore National Park

7. Ranthambore National Park — Kingdom of the Royal Bengal Tiger

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Ranthambore National Park, one of India's largest and most renowned national parks. Spread over 1,334 square kilometers, the park is a former hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur and is now a major wildlife conservation site. The park is famous for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, which are relatively easier to spot here compared to other tiger reserves in India.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Spotting Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat
  • Exploring the ancient Ranthambore Fort within the park
  • Wildlife photography of diverse flora and fauna

Best Time to Visit

October to June for wildlife sightings; April to June for best tiger sightings

Don't Miss

  • Early morning and late afternoon safaris for tiger sightings
  • Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Padam Lake, often frequented by tigers

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (JAI) - 180km from Sawai Madhopur

By Train: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station (SWM) - well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur

By Road: Well-connected via NH552 from Jaipur (180km, 3-4 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (October-March): Pleasant weather, 10-25°C, good wildlife sightings
  • Summer (April-June): Hot, 30-45°C, best time for tiger sightings near water bodies
  • Monsoon (July-September): Park closed for wildlife conservation

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 2 days (for multiple safaris)
  • Recommended: 3 days for better chances of tiger sightings
  • Extended Stay: 4 days including nearby Sariska Tiger Reserve

Cost Tips

  • Safari Cost: ₹1500-3000 per person per safari / $20-$40 (depending on zone and vehicle)
  • Park Entry: ₹100 (Indians), ₹1000 (Foreigners) / $1.33, $13.33
  • Budget: ₹4000-7000/day / $53-$93 (mid-range)

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: The Oberoi Vanyavilas (₹50,000+ / $667+), Aman-i-Khas (₹60,000+ / $800+)
  • Mid-range: Nahargarh Ranthambhore (₹15,000-20,000 / $200-$267), Ranthambhore National Resort (₹10,000-15,000 / $133-$200)
  • Budget: Ranthambore Forest Resort (₹3000-5000 / $40-$67), Tiger Den Resort (₹4000-6000 / $53-$80)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Follow park rules. Don't get out of the vehicle during safaris.
  • Health: Carry mosquito repellent. Stay hydrated in summer.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Surwal Lake, a seasonal lake attracting birds and wildlife
  • Kachida Valley, known for its panther population
  • Raj Bagh Ruins, ancient structures within the park
Mysore Palace, Karnataka

8. Mysore & Hampi, Karnataka — Royal Palaces and Ancient Ruins

Explore the royal grandeur of Mysore and the ancient ruins of Hampi in Karnataka. Mysore, known as the "City of Palaces," was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore for nearly six centuries. The city's magnificent Mysore Palace, illuminated by thousands of bulbs on Sunday evenings, creates a fairy-tale spectacle that attracts visitors from around the world. The palace, an architectural masterpiece, blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles, featuring intricate carvings, stained glass, and beautiful paintings.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Witnessing the illuminated Mysore Palace on Sunday evenings
  • Exploring the ancient ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Experiencing the vibrant Dasara festival in Mysore

Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant weather; October for Mysore Dasara

Don't Miss

  • Mysore Palace with its stunning architecture
  • Hampi's Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple
  • Brindavan Gardens with its musical fountain

Practical Information

How to Get There

Mysore: Nearest Airport is Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru (170km); well-connected by train and road

Hampi: Nearest Airport is Hubli Airport (HBX) (165km); nearest railway station is Hospet (HPT) (13km)

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (October-March): Pleasant weather, 15-25°C, ideal for sightseeing
  • Summer (April-June): Hot, 30-40°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (July-September): Rainy, lush greenery, Mysore Dasara in October

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 3 days (2 days in Mysore, 1 day in Hampi)
  • Recommended: 4 days (2 days each in Mysore and Hampi)
  • Extended Stay: 6 days including Coorg and Chikmagalur

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fees: Mysore Palace - ₹200 (Indians), ₹1000 (Foreigners) / $2.67, $13.33; Hampi monuments - ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners) / $0.40, $6.67
  • Budget: ₹2500-4500/day / $33-$60 (mid-range)
  • Guide: ₹1000-1500 / $13-$20 for a half-day tour

Where to Stay

  • Mysore Luxury: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel (₹12,000-18,000 / $160-$240), Royal Orchid Metropole (₹10,000-15,000 / $133-$200)
  • Mysore Mid-range: Hotel Sandesh The Prince (₹6000-9000 / $80-$120), The Quorum (₹5000-8000 / $67-$107)
  • Hampi Luxury: Evolve Back Hampi (₹25,000+ / $333+), Hyatt Place Hampi (₹15,000-20,000 / $200-$267)
  • Hampi Mid-range: Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari (₹3000-5000 / $40-$67), KSTDC Hotel Mayura Vijayanagara (₹2500-4000 / $33-$53)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Both Mysore and Hampi are generally safe for tourists.
  • Health: Carry water and sun protection. Hampi can be very hot.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery in Mysore
  • Sanapur Lake and Anjaneya Hill in Hampi
  • Coracle boat ride on the Tungabhadra River
Darjeeling, West Bengal

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal — Queen of the Himalayas

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush tea gardens. Known as the "Queen of the Himalayas," this charming hill station was developed by the British in the mid-19th century as a respite from the summer heat. The town's colonial heritage is evident in its architecture, with charming Tudor-style buildings, old churches, and heritage hotels.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Riding the UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
  • Witnessing the sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill
  • Exploring tea plantations and tasting world-famous Darjeeling tea

Best Time to Visit

October to December for clear mountain views; March to May for blooming rhododendrons

Don't Miss

  • Tiger Hill for sunrise views over Mount Kanchenjunga
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) ride
  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) - 68km from Darjeeling

By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) - 62km from Darjeeling; well connected to Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati

By Road: Well-connected via NH110 from Siliguri (70km, 3-4 hours)

Best Time to Visit

  • Autumn (October-December): Clear skies with excellent mountain views, 5-15°C
  • Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather with blooming rhododendrons, 10-20°C
  • Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rains, landslides possible, 15-25°C

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 3 days
  • Recommended: 4 days to explore Darjeeling and nearby areas
  • Extended Stay: 6 days including Gangtok and Pelling

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fees: Tiger Hill - ₹30 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners) / $0.40, $1.33; Toy Train - ₹1000-1500 depending on the journey / $13-$20
  • Budget: ₹2500-4500/day / $33-$60 (mid-range)
  • Tea Garden Tour: ₹500-1000 / $6.67-$13.33 per person

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: The Elgin (₹15,000-20,000 / $200-$267), Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort (₹12,000-18,000 / $160-$240)
  • Mid-range: Windamere Hotel (₹8000-12000 / $107-$160), Cedar Inn (₹6000-9000 / $80-$120)
  • Budget: Zostel Darjeeling (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27), Joey's Hostel (₹1500-2500 / $20-$33)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Darjeeling is generally safe. Be cautious during monsoon due to landslides.
  • Health: Carry warm clothing even in summer. Acclimatize to altitude.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Peace Pagoda with stunning mountain views
  • Lepchajagat village for panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range
  • Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park
India Gate, Delhi

10. Delhi (Old & New) — Where History Meets Modernity

Experience the fascinating contrast of Old and New Delhi, where ancient monuments stand alongside modern skyscrapers. India's capital city is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends its rich historical past with its dynamic present. Old Delhi, with its narrow lanes, bustling markets, and magnificent Mughal-era monuments, offers a glimpse into India's glorious past, while New Delhi, with its wide tree-lined avenues, colonial-era buildings, and modern infrastructure, represents the country's aspirations for the future.

Highlights & Experiences

  • Exploring the magnificent Red Fort and Jama Masjid in Old Delhi
  • Visiting India Gate and Qutub Minar in New Delhi
  • Shopping in bustling markets like Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place

Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant weather; January for Republic Day celebrations

Don't Miss

  • Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque
  • Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret

Practical Information

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) - well connected to major cities worldwide

By Train: New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI), Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) - well connected to all major cities

By Road: Well-connected by national highways to all major cities

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (October-March): Pleasant weather, 10-25°C, ideal for sightseeing
  • Summer (April-June): Hot, 30-45°C, less crowded
  • Monsoon (July-September): Rainy, humid, Republic Day in January

Duration Recommendation

  • Minimum: 3 days
  • Recommended: 4 days to explore both Old and New Delhi
  • Extended Stay: 6 days including Agra and Jaipur

Cost Tips

  • Entrance Fees: Red Fort - ₹35 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners) / $0.47, $6.67; Qutub Minar - ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners) / $0.53, $8
  • Budget: ₹2000-4000/day / $27-$53 (mid-range)
  • Metro: ₹10-60 / $0.13-$0.80 per journey

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: The Imperial (₹25,000+ / $333+), Taj Palace (₹20,000-30,000 / $267-$400), Leela Palace (₹18,000-25,000 / $240-$333)
  • Mid-range: The Claridges (₹8000-12000 / $107-$160), Shangri-La's Eros Hotel (₹7000-10000 / $93-$133)
  • Budget: Zostel Delhi (₹1000-2000 / $13-$27), Madpackers Hostel (₹1500-2500 / $20-$33)

Safety / Health / Visa Reminders

  • Safety: Delhi is generally safe in tourist areas. Be cautious in crowded markets.
  • Health: Carry water and sun protection. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
  • Visa: Most foreign nationals require a visa. e-Visa available for many countries.

Local / Hidden Gems

  • Agrasen ki Baoli, a historical stepwell
  • Hauz Khas Village with medieval ruins and trendy cafes
  • Lodhi Gardens with historical tombs and lush greenery

Suggested Travel Itineraries

5-Day Golden Triangle

Perfect for first-time visitors to India, covering the most iconic destinations.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Delhi, visit India Gate, Humayun's Tomb
  • Day 2: Explore Old Delhi, travel to Agra in the evening
  • Day 3: Visit Taj Mahal at sunrise, Agra Fort, travel to Jaipur
  • Day 4: Jaipur sightseeing - Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar
  • Day 5: Jaipur markets, return to Delhi for departure

7-Day Cultural Heritage

A deeper dive into India's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.

  • Day 1-2: Delhi - historical monuments and vibrant markets
  • Day 3: Agra - Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
  • Day 4-5: Jaipur - royal palaces and Rajasthani culture
  • Day 6: Varanasi - spiritual experiences and Ganga Aarti
  • Day 7: Varanasi - Sarnath, departure

10-Day Nature & Wildlife

For nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers seeking diverse landscapes.

  • Day 1-2: Delhi - arrival and sightseeing
  • Day 3-4: Ranthambore - wildlife safaris
  • Day 5-6: Jaipur - cultural experiences
  • Day 7-8: Kerala Backwaters - houseboat stay
  • Day 9-10: Kochi - heritage and departure

14-Day Grand Tour

A comprehensive journey covering India's most diverse regions.

  • Day 1-2: Delhi - historical monuments
  • Day 3: Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Day 4-5: Jaipur - royal heritage
  • Day 6-7: Varanasi - spiritual experiences
  • Day 8-9: Kerala Backwaters - serene houseboat stay
  • Day 10-11: Goa - beaches and Portuguese heritage
  • Day 12-13: Mumbai - Bollywood and colonial architecture
  • Day 14: Mumbai - departure

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit most parts of India is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and dry. However, India's diverse climate means different regions have different ideal seasons. For example, hill stations like Darjeeling and Ladakh are best visited in summer (April to June), while Goa and Kerala are ideal from November to February.

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. India offers an e-Visa facility for citizens of over 160 countries, which can be obtained online before travel. The e-Visa is typically valid for 60 days and allows for double entry. For longer stays or other purposes, a traditional visa from an Indian embassy or consulate is required.

India can be safe for solo travelers with proper precautions. For women, it's advisable to dress modestly, avoid isolated areas at night, and use reputable transportation. Tourist areas are generally safe, but it's wise to research specific destinations. Many women travel solo in India and have positive experiences, especially in places like Kerala, Goa, and parts of Rajasthan.

Recommended vaccinations for India include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine immunizations. Depending on your itinerary, you might also consider Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies vaccinations. It's advisable to consult with a travel health specialist 4-6 weeks before your trip. Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended depending on the regions you plan to visit.

Pack lightweight, modest clothing (especially for women), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a light jacket or shawl for air-conditioned places and cooler evenings. Essential items include hand sanitizer, wet wipes, any personal medications, and a power adapter. For specific regions like Ladakh, pack warm clothing even in summer.

The currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, and most accept international cards. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is essential for smaller establishments and rural areas. It's advisable to carry some cash at all times. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Travel Experiences