Describing India in just a few words will never do justice to its diversity. So, just coming up with the Top 30 Tourist Places in India latest list 2024 is going to be tough. But, still, if we have to conclude the beauty of the state, we would describe it by saying it to be magnanimous and heavenly. Right from the number of religions prevailing here to the number of festivals being celebrated here, we can say that India has a variety of everything.
The List of Top 30 Tourist Places in India
Even when it comes to the tourist places in the country, the variety served by India to the world is just next level. It was not easy to fidget with just 30 best tourist places in India from hundreds of heavenly places it is home to, we somehow did it. So, here we present to you the Top 30 Tourist Places in India.
1. The Legit Heaven on Earth – Kashmir
We begin this blog of the Best tourist places in India with Kashmir. The creator of the Universe was biased towards Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty. Kashmir has a gorgeous blend of serene waterfalls, flower gardens, snow-clad peaks, lush green meadows, peaceful lakes, and of course the sight of the houseboats on the Dal lake. Visiting Kashmir during the winter seasons with its majestic snowfall is a sight that every eye deserves to see.
| Best time to visit | April to October, December & January. |
| Best Places to Explore | Gulmarg, Srinagar, Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Pari Mahal, Shankracharya shrine. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | June to August (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Houseboats, ice skating, skiing, sightseeing. |
2. A White Site for the Sore Eyes – Rann of Kutch
You have to be living under the rocks if you are already not mesmerised by the pictures of this place. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. So, it is a huge salt plain or white dessert which just looks straight out of a fairy tale. Staying in the desserts during the Kutch festival is an iconic experience to add to your life for sure. Desert camping in the white desert during the winter and catching the sunset views while you sip your favourite coffee! Doesn’t this entice you enough to explore this one of the top tourist places in India?
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Kalo Dungar, white desert, Kutch fossil park, Siyot caves, Shree Nadeshwari Mataji temple. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summers) |
| Best Experiences | Desert camping, glamping, camel safari, rann mahotsav. |
If you’re inspired by the cultural richness of India and its linguistic diversity, you might even be motivated to learn Punjabi to fully appreciate the unique heritage and traditions of the Punjabi-speaking regions. Numerous language resources and communities are available to help you embark on this linguistic journey, adding another layer of depth to your exploration of India’s cultural tapestry.
3. Paradise and Party Port – Goa
They say ‘watch more sunsets than Netflix’. Well, the best place to catch the most mesmerising sunset and sunrise have to be Goa. There is absolutely no other place in the country that has two different vibes of tranquillity and parties in the same place. The third vibe to add to this one of the top tourist places in India is the crazy water sports and other experiences that one can do here. Needless to say, a destination suited for one and all. Contrary to popular belief, it is also one of the best places to visit in India with family.
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| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Best Places to Explore | Baga beach, Calangute beach, Fort Aguada, Immaculate Conception Church, Anjuna beach market, Vagator beach |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to September (summers and monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Beach laying, clubbing, water sports, church sightseeing, shopping. |
4. The Land of ‘Love & Wonders’ – Agra
Agra is home to one of the wonders of the world. This wonder, the epic, ‘Taj Mahal’, is a result of love. Hence, what better name to call this city with? It has to be on this list of the top tourist places in India. The Taj Mahal should be on everyone’s bucket list because it has a lot more to offer than its pictures. Also, Agra lets you explore the bygone Mughal era through the different Mughal monuments present there. Agra has enough beautiful experiences and delightful street food to offer. Sitting on the banks of the river Yamuna, Agra is beyond beautiful.
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Best Places to Explore | Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, local markets, Red Fort |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to September (summers and monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Sight-seeing, cultural walks, street food tasting, and street shopping |
5. City of Dreams – Mumbai
People call it the city of dreams but also in contrast to it, people claim the city never sleeps, ironic much? Well, the contrast of old and new, poor and rich, traditional and contemporary, chaos and hope, Mumbai is the best to show you that. More than the places, it is the vibe, people, food, and experiences that tourists must focus on exploring in Mumbai. Well, who knows, while doing these things, you might spot your favourite actor waving right at you from their cars. Dreams, you see? If you haven’t seen Mumbai, you have not fully seen all the best tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Gateway of India, Siddhivinayak Temple, Taj Hotels, Mahalakshmi Temple, Bandra Worli Sea Link, Marine Drive, Film City. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to September (summers and monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, luxury staycation, and street food tasting. |
6. The Iconic WildFlower Lane – Valley of Flowers
Walking amidst the real and the natural Valley of flowers is always better than walking in the man-made one, right? Valley of flowers is a trek in Uttarakhand and the best part of this trek is that the entire region is covered with gorgeous wildflowers on all sides. As far as you can see, you will only witness stretches of wildflowers. This is one of the paradisiacal places to explore in India and very conveniently makes it to the list of the best tourist places in India. Also, this UNESCO world heritage site offers a treacherous trek trail.
| Best time to visit | July to September |
| Best Places to Explore | Niti Valley, Gorson Bugyal, Pandukeshwar, Joshimath, Badrinath. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | October to January (it is shut) |
| Best Experiences | Trekking, camping, sightseeing. |
7. Rain God’s Favourite Spot – Cherrapunjee
Well, this is the wettest spot in the world. What do you think, the rain gods aren’t partial to this place? One can find waterfalls and tributaries here that drain into the Bangladesh plains. The most important place to explore here is the living root bridge which is insane. People who love monsoons must explore this place to get the real rainy feel. There is absolutely no other place like this in the entire world so how can we not have it in this list of the best tourist places in India? So, this reason should be enough for you to visit this place.
| Best time to visit | September to May |
| Best Places to Explore | Double-decker living root bridge, Â Dawki, Nohkalikai waterfalls, Mawlynnong, Mawsmai cave, KremPhyllut. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | June to September (monsoons, not always favourable) |
| Best Experiences | Trekking, wildlife exploration. |
8. But, it’s a 100 – Ziro
High chance that you might not know this place at all. It is all because the North East is kind of neglected when it comes to tourism. The positive side to it is that some of the gems like Ziro are extremely non-touched by humans. And, it is always better to explore less explored places and create new stories that are alien to many. Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh has lush green valleys, a gorgeous backdrop of the Himalayas, rich paddy fields, bamboo groves, pine forests, tribe-inhabited mountain villages, and a serene environment to top it all. Having a vacation here will rejuvenate your senses.
| Best time to visit | October to April |
| Best Places to Explore | Meghna cave temple, Talley Valley wildlife sanctuary, KilePakho, ZiroPuto, Tarin fish farm, Midey |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July to September (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Sight-seeing, relaxed camping, glamping, trekking, adventure sports |
9. The Divine & Spiritual Vacation Hub – Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known for its variety and that’s why it is one of the prime tourist places in India. It is the yoga capital of the world, the best place in the country for adventure sports, a pilgrim spot, a rejuvenation destination, a trekkers paradise, and lots of other things in between. This makes it one of the Best tourist places in India. Yogis and hippies are a common sight in this place. This busy town running across the holy river Ganga is always filled with devotees, tourists, leisure vacationers, and yogis. You can plan a family vacation here as it is one of the best places to visit in India with your family.
| Best time to visit | Throughout the year |
| Best Places to Explore | Lakshman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, River Ganga, Triveni Ghat, Gita Bhawan. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July August (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Trekking, meditation, yoga, sightseeing, camping, glamping. |
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10. Perfect Laid Back Vacay Spot – Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Beach vacations should be all about serenity, peace, and all things relaxed. Well, Andamans assure you all of these. Not only are the beaches here clean and tranquil but also the turquoise blue waters will turn you into a water baby for sure. This island is a beautiful blend of isolated islands, primaeval jungle, bubbling cultural ports, and mouth-watering cuisines. You will be living on the Hollywood-style beaches here while trying out different water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, and more.
| Best time to visit | October to June |
| Best Places to Explore | Cellular Jail, Elephant beach, Havelock Island, Neil Island, Ross Island, Baratang Jolly Buoy Island. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | June to September (monsoon) |
| Best Experiences | Kite surfing, Kayaking, snorkelling, sightseeing, beach sports, sun basking. |
11. Home of Royalty & Luxury – Udaipur
Udaipur has a quite different feel as compared to other Rajasthani cities. This one has a modern and luxurious feel with the perfect touch of royal Rajput times. Udaipur, the magical city of the lakes, is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills on all sides. Udaipur is the perfect example of what royal luxury can look and feel like. The city has palaces, man-made lakes, forts, mahals, and luxury hotels, and the list is pretty much endless. Udaipur is gorgeous and also one of the most attractive tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | November to March |
| Best Places to Explore | City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jal Niwas, Fatehsagar lake, vintage car museum. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | June to September (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Bird watching, boating, sightseeing, luxury staycation. |
12. Adventure at its highest – Ladakh
Imagine being on a vacation that has the best backdrop of the Himalayas on all sides. Also, imagine being at a place where you can experience all views at one time like a plain, mountain, valley, lake, and sky in the same place. How can we not have this in the list of the best tourist places in India? This kingdom of Buddhist culture is extremely raw, gorgeous, and something different from the rest of the world. If you are a biker, this is your heaven, you know why.
| Best time to visit | June to September |
| Best Places to Explore | Pangong Tso, Spituk Gompa, Zanskar Valley, Khardung-La Pass, and Hemis National Park |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July – August, November to January |
| Best Experiences | Trekking, biking, camping, glamping. |
13. Sweet Queen of the Hills – Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a very sweet and small place with cute cafes, amazing local food, and beautiful monasteries. If you didn’t know already, Darjeeling was the summer capital in the times of the British Raj and its instances are still prevalent. Tea plantations, rolling mountains, and toy trains make for the common scenes in the hill station. This romantic getaway is always flocked by honeymooners. The place is also great for kids and has been always considered one of the best tourist places in India for them.
| Best time to visit | February to March, September to December |
| Best Places to Explore | Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley, Toy Train, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Rock Garden. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July – August (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, toy train ride, sunrise spot. |
14. Vacation Spot That Hits the Right Spot – Shimla
Shimla has that perfect vintage vibe with the verdant valleys, pine forests, old churches, and cute spots to explore. There is something about Shimla that attracts honeymooners. Because of the colonial architecture, Shimla still holds its old world’s charm. Staying in the cottage woods, watching the sunrise, and having Himachal food in bed are some of the relaxing things to do here. If you are a fan of snow, then this is one of those tourist places in India that must be on your list.
| Best time to visit | October to June |
| Best Places to Explore | Christ Church, Kufri, Scandal Point, Mall Road, Chadwick Falls, Jakhu Temple, Annandale. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July – August (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Sight-seeing, camping |
15. The Land of Golden Sun & Sand – Jaisalmer
Rajasthan is the land of the desert and to experience the desert, you must be in the desert. Jaisalmer lets you do so. This golden city is in the Thar desert region. On one side of the city, you can find the dunes and on the next side, you will find the colourful aspects of the city. While you can enjoy a luxurious stay here, you can also go for dune camping, camel safari, and dune bashing. Getting Pinterest-worthy pictures clicked at the dunes is a must in these picturesque Rajasthani tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Best Places to Explore | Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer Fort, Bada Bagh, Desert Cultural Centre, Folklore Museum. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July – August (monsoons) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, camping, glamping, street food, dunes, and street shopping. |
16. Blend of Heritage & Contemporary World – Delhi
The capital of our country has seen a lot and is now welcoming you with open arms to show you all that it has. The capital city of the Mughals still has their aura through their forts and palaces. And, there is no other city that shows the best modernisation to the contemporary world with a slice of heritage on the side. This makes Delhi one of the prime tourist places in India. Not to miss things are its street food, local shopping, and sightseeing.
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Best Places to Explore | Rashtrapati Bhavan, Humayun’s Tomb, The Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple, Sarojini Nagar, Akshardham. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, street food, heritage walking, local shopping, cafe exploring. |
17. Beauty of the Beach – Lakshadweep Islands
This beautiful archipelago is home to 36 islands, 12 atolls, 3 reefs and 5 submerged banks. The ones who are looking to spend some serene time in the lap of nature beside the beach in peaceful cottages can head out here. This place has to be one of the prime 30 best tourist places to visit in India. The island has some of the most beautiful beach resorts which also allow tons of water activities and refreshing experiences like breakfast with a view, open showers, etc. Your overworked self deserves a holiday here.
| Best time to visit | September to May |
| Best Places to Explore | Agatti Islands, Minicoy Island, Kalpeni Islands, Bangaram Island. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Water sports, beach camping, relaxation. |
18. Oldest Living City on Earth – Varanasi
There is something about Varanasi that attracts travellers from every age group. This city of God has the most divine sight of the Ganga Aarti in the evening time with the holiest river Ganga lit with candles, diyas, etc. Apart from this holy vibe, there is an old-world’s charm associated with this place that needs to be explored for its unmatched beauty. You will be allured by their street food while strolling through the narrow aesthetic lanes of the city. It is one of the best tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Manmandir Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Durga Temple. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Exploring ghats and temples, Ganga aarti, boat ride on river Ganga, heritage walk. |
19. Where Romance Never Ends – Manali
One of the most beautiful tourist places in India has to be Manali. Manali sees two kinds of travellers whose vibes are extremely extreme. One major kind is the trekking/backpacking kind and the other one is the honeymoon/leisure kind. The amazing part is that Manali very well caters to both of these vibes. Manali has to be one of the 30 best tourist places to visit in India.
| Best time to visit | October to June. |
| Best Places to Explore | Hidimba temple, Nagar Castle, Kullu, Solang valley, mall road. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July – August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Trekking, camping, sunrise views, shopping, sightseeing. |
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20. Pink Land of The Rajputs – Jaipur
To explore the royal heritage of the Rajputs that has been left behind by the kings and queens, the best place to go has to be Jaipur. Jaipur is one of the most visited places and also one of the best tourist places in India for a reason. You will return with loads of gorgeous pictures because Jaipur has some of the most breathtaking spots. How can we not have Jaipur on this list of the top 30 tourist Places in India?
| Best time to visit | November to March |
| Best Places to Explore | Amer Fort, Chokhi Dhani, City Palace, Nahargarh Fort, Hawa Mahal. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | July – August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, heritage walk, local food. |
21. The Golden and Green City – Amritsar
Amritsar, the home of the golden temple of India is hands down one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. This spiritual place has so much of a positive aura that will leave you nourishing the soul. This place will leave you stress-free and will turn you into a believer. It is one of the best places to visit in India with family. Amritsar is one of the top 30 tourist Places in India.
| Best time to visit | November to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Central Sikh Museum, Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Akal Takht, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Durgiana Temple, Partition Museum. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April – August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, temple walks, heritage sights. |
22. Of Course, God’s Own Country – Kerala
Munnar, Kochi, Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kovalam, are some of the best elements of God’s own country. Since God has openly announced this place to be his favourite, so no amount of words can justify how beautiful, relaxing, divine, and magical this place would be. Everyone who is looking for a ‘to do nothing kind of holiday’, must head out here as it is one of the tourist places in India. Just laying back on the houseboats and watching the serene backwaters will rejuvenate each of your tiring senses. On the extreme contrary of it, you get crazy wildlife experience options as well.
| Best time to visit | November to January and June to August |
| Best Places to Explore | Sri Krishna Temple, Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Revi Karunakaran Museum, Pathiramanal. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | June – August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, backwaters, houseboat rides, wildlife exploration. |
23. Home to Sites and Sweets – Kolkata
If you are looking for some of the best places to visit in India with your family, then put Kolkata on your list. It is one of the top 30 tourist places in India. Kolkata, a 300-year-old city, is an enthralling commercial destination that still boasts of its authentic untouched culture. You get to experience the colonial lifestyle here with extreme contemporary urbanisation. Also, not to forget is trying hands-on authentic Bengali cuisine and delicious sweets.
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Best Places to Explore | Victoria Memorial, Birla Planetarium, Kalighat, Howrah Bridge, Belur Math. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to September (summer & monsoon) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, heritage walk, local food. |
24. Majestic and Mysterious – Khajuraho
Architecture lovers are going to find their paradise in Khajuraho. You are going to learn so much here about India and its heritage that it is going to blow your mind. This is one of the most aesthetic cities in India that is going to take up all the space of your Photos app. Exploring the temples is the prime thing to do here. This home of some of the UNESCO world heritage sights is one of the top 30 tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Panna Tiger Reserve, Orchha, Khajuraho temples. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Temple tours, exploring the national parks, photo walks, and architecture tours. |
25. The Virgin Princess – Kanyakumari
Less explored places are always wonderful to be at. The unique fact about this virgin queen princess is that it is surrounded by three seas which are the Indian, Arabian, and the Bay of Bengal. Along with this, you will find a series of tall coconut trees surrounding this one of the top tourist places in India, hills with paddy fields, and mountainous terrains as well. Your heart, eyes, and camera are going to be super happy here.
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Triveni Sangam, Vivekananda rock memorial, Vattakottara fort. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, water activities, beach activities |
26. The Swiss of India – Khajjiar
Have you been to Switzerland? Yes or no, you have to visit the Swiss part of India which is Khajjiar. This small, serene, and gorgeous hill town is one of the most scenic places in Himachal. It is filled with the sights of cedar trees, peaceful lakes, dense forests, and even wide pasture lands. You can chill here without getting bothered. Once you visit this place, you will get to know why this place is mentioned in the top 30 tourist Places in India.
| Best time to visit | Most parts of the year |
| Best Places to Explore | Lord Shiva Statue, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, HP State Handicrafts Center, Golden Devi Temple. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | January – February (favourable but experiences rainfall and snowfall) |
| Best Experiences | Sightseeing, trekking, adventure activities, zorbing, and horse riding. |
27. Tranquility Is In The Air – Ooty
If you are a fan of a picturesque and silent hill station that does its job of relaxation correctly, it is Ooty. There are rocky mountains, refreshing gardens, and beautiful waterfalls and everything here is just perfect. The best way to have a lavish vacation in Ooty is by booking a nice stay with gorgeous views and soaking in the tranquil vibes. Ooty has always been one of the prime tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | March to June |
| Best Places to Explore | Ooty Botanical Garden, Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Rose Garden, Ooty Lake, Dolphin’s Nose, Ride the toy train, Doddabetta Peak, Thread Garden, Kalhatti Falls, Emerald Lake |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | Mostly, none |
| Best Experiences | Sight-seeing, chilling, nature walk |
28. Princess of the Hills – Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is called the gift of the forests and is the richest blessing of nature. Just get ready to witness the most gorgeous hill station with the most scenic forest land ever. This princess of a hill station gives you the best lazy morning to wake up to and get cosy inside the cute wooden cottage huts. This is one of the top 30 tourist places in India.
| Best time to visit | September to May |
| Best Places to Explore | Bear Shola Falls, Pillars Rocks, Bryant Park, Kodai Lake, Coakers Walk, Green Valley View, Devil’s Kitchen, Dolphin’s Nose |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | Not any time as such |
| Best Experiences | Sight-seeing, serene activities |
29. The King of Architectural Sites – Hampi
One of the best places to visit in India with family is Hampi. This ancient riverside town is filled with the sight of south Indian architecture. If you are a history buff, you will return with enough content from this place because Hampi is filled with UNESCO world heritage sights. If you are into mythology, you can also explore the birthplace of Lord Hanuman here in Hampi. How could we not include this epic place in the top 30 tourist places in India?
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Best Places to Explore | Hemakuta Hill Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Matanga Hill, Achyutaraya Temple. |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | April to August (summer) |
| Best Experiences | Sight-seeing, water activities, beach activities |
30. The Moon Lake – Chandratal
Quite offbeat for the general public but quite famous for the trekkers, Chandratal makes for an exquisite experience for every kind of traveller. Chandratal is named after its moon-like shape and is a high-altitude lake in the Himalayas. Not only Chandratal is one of the top 30 tourist places in India but it is also one of the most gorgeous lakes surrounded by snow-clad peaks on all sides.
| Best time to visit | June to September |
| Best Places to Explore | Kee Gompa, Kunzum pass, Pin Valley national park, Kunzum La |
| Offbeat Season (to save money) | October to February (winter) |
| Best Experiences | Trekking, camping, glamping, hiking. |
Conclusion
Of all the other beautiful places to visit in India, these were the 30 best tourist places in India. All of these beautiful places to visit in India are quite different from each other in different aspects like their vibe, vacation feels, architecture, people, local food, religions, culture, and lots of other things. So, exploring these places will be packed with fun, adventure, and thrill. Happy journeying. Traveller or not, you must have these top 30 tourist Places in India on your bucket list to see the entire beauty of this country.
