It is no exaggeration to say that one life-time is not enough to visit a huge nation like India. This country is famed for offering varied innumerable experiences. If you are first-time traveler, shortlisting the places to visit can be a slightly daunting task for you. To make things easier for you, the blog enlists Where to go in India during your first time trip:
Delhi
This national capital is a wonderful amalgam of old and new-world charms. Delhi has some wonderful Mughal and British colonial structures, temples and other modern places that are worth-visiting. Some popular names are Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Akshardham temple and India Gate. Street food is another highlight.
Agra
Also known as the ‘Mughal City’, Agra is a delightful destination with magnum-opus of the Mughals, the World Wonder of Taj Mahal. Other amazing sights here are the Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb. Do not miss out on shopping here.
Mumbai
The ‘commercial capital of India’, Mumbai is rightly nicknamed as the ‘City of Dreams’ due to its never-ending energy. It is known for the glamorous Bollywood, the Dabbawallas, and the local trains. Visit the historical sights, British architecture, beaches, temples and museums, etc.
Jaipur
Out of the three cities of the most sought-after Golden triangle tour in India, the Pink City of Jaipur is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan state. Get your hands on stunning handicrafts, textiles, jewelry etc. Explore the mammoth Rajputana structures like Amer Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal.
Goa
The beach state of Goa might be the smallest Indian state but is replete with innumerable delights, making it one of the most popular destinations in India for first time travelers. It has beaches, churches, flea markets, water sports, wildlife, casinos, discos, forts and much more.
Varanasi
Located on the banks of the Ganges, the holy city of Varanasi or Benaras is one of the world’s oldest living cities. It is regarded as the ‘spiritual capital of India’ and is dotted with various old temples. Do not miss out on boat ride in River Ganga during sunrise, and the magnetic Ganga Aarti during sunset.
Kerala
Rightly termed as the ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is the perfect destination for nature lovers and peace-seekers. Including placid backwaters, pristine beaches, green environs, the ancient Ayurveda, sumptuous food, it has a long list of attractions.
Kolkata
Kolkata or Calcutta boasts of being the country’s cultural capital. It was the capital of British India till 1911. Along with British colonial structures and art galleries including the Indian Museum and the National Library of India, it has other attractions also like Howrah Bride, Dakshineswar Kali temple.
Puducherry
Puducherry, formerly known as Pondicherry, is replete with French feel as it was the only French colony here. It has impressive views and tranquil ambiance. Some of the other highlights include paradisiacal beaches, French structures, Sri Aurbindo Ashram, old colonial churches and lip-smacking food.
Shimla
One of India’s most popular hill stations, Shimla is called the ‘Queen of Hills’. The ‘summer capital of British India’, this place boasts of a wonderful climate all throughout the year. Other allures here are Kalka-Shimla toy train, Mall Road, Ridge Road, Jakhu temple, Christ Church, Kufri excursion, and Rashtrapati Niwas.
Amritsar
Housing the splendid Golden temple, the holiest gurudwara in Sikhism, Amritsar is a wonderful city, which is visited by one and all. The other popular attractions are Jallianwala Bagh, Durgiana temple and Wagah Border. Lip-smacking food is not be missed.
Hampi
The serene Hampi town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of River Tungabhadra. Founded in the 14th century, it is like an open-air museum of religion, architecture and history. Explore magnificent structures like the Vittala Temple, the Virupaksha Temple, and the King’s Palace.
Manali
An amazing year-round destination, Manali offers memorable vacation to family vacationers as well as honeymooners. It has wonderful weather, breathtaking vistas, green surroundings, adventure sports, snow activities, and various other attractions.
- Ladakh
Ladakh is the dream destination for avid travelers. The ‘Land of High Passes’, it is sandwiched between the Himalayas and the Kunlun Mountains. Some of the must-visit attractions here are Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, various Monastries, and Leh. Partake in various adventure activities here.
Madurai
One of the oldest Indian cities, Madurai is the cultural soul of Tamil Nadu. Around 2500 years old, it is dotted with historical relics, and ancient temples, splendid museums, and well-stocked museums. The city is also known for vibrant cultural festivals. Highlights here are Thirumala Nayakkar Mahal, Meenakshi Amman temple and Gandhi Memorial Museum.
- Udaipur
The ‘Lake City of India’, Udaipur is popular for being one of the most romantic destinations in India. With Aravallis in the background, it has wonderful allures like boat ride in Lake Pichola, the splendid City Palace, the wonderful Jagdish Temple, and well-maintained Saheliyon-ki-Bari. Do not miss out on shopping here.
Alleppey
Alleppey, now Alappuzha is the backwater hub of India. Enjoy a ride in a kettuvallam (houseboat) while savoring wonderful views. Spot colorful birds here. Visit other attractions like Alleppey beach, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna temple, and Krishnapuram Palace.
Rishikesh
The ‘Yoga Capital of India’, Rishikesh is a spiritual city with temples and Ashrams. Do not miss out on river rafting in River Ganga. Visit Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple also. Camping is also quite popular here. Attending evening Ganga Aarti is a must.
Khajuraho
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho is one of the finest specimen of temple architecture in India. Explore the 11th century temples with carvings promoting exotica. Founded by the Chandelas, this place is a mix of history, architecture and culture. Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Chatturbhuj Temple, Parsavanatha Temple, and Matangeshwar Temple are the popular ones.
Ahmedabad
Termed as the ‘Manchester of the East’, and the ‘Textile City of India’, Ahmedabad is the former capital city of Gujarat. It houses placid lakes, historical monuments, places of worship, amusement parks and many other attractions. Akshardham Temple, Adlaj Step Well, Kankaria Lake, Hathee Singh Jain Temple, and Sabarmati Ashram, must be visited.
