india tourist attractions

The 13 most spectacular places to visit in India

Oct 7, 2024 • 13 min read

India is full of surprises – here is our pick of the best places to visit. Pavel Vero/Getty Images

India  is a kaleidoscope of experiences, cultures, landscapes, cuisines and religions.

Think it, and chances are, India has it. The country loves its monikers and is proud of its many superlatives. A salt desert. The largest river island. The world’s largest floating park. A village that disappears in the monsoon and reappears in summer. A park with white tigers. A city of lakes. These are but  some of the unique experiences  to be found in this country.

As a traveler, you are best off picking a region or a state and dedicating time to exploring it in depth. It is not possible to soak in the incredible diversity of the country whose culture, language, and landscape changes every few miles in just one trip. This may require a few lifetimes.

Unsure of where to start? Here are some of the highlights.

1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Best city for lovebugs

This historically rich city often forms part of India's most popular tourist circuit: The Golden Triangle, linking Delhi, Agra and Jaipur . Of course, the biggest reason to visit Agra is to see the Taj Mahal , one of the modern-day Seven Wonders of the World. Widely considered to be the greatest ever monument to love, it was constructed by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

The ivory-colored marble mausoleum sits in a complex that also includes gardens, two mosques and a museum. Further down the river is the spectacular Agra Fort , an expansive red sandstone structure famed for its monumental Delhi Gate and private palaces and mosques. Indeed, most of Agra’s historical landmarks are located close to each other on the banks of the Yamuna.

The Taj is best seen at dawn or sunset, and the best views are across the river, from Mehtab Bagh Park . Agra is also famous for its petha , a sweet treat made from candied white gourd and often bought as a souvenir.

Detour: An hour’s drive away is another amazing historic site, Fatehpur Sikri – a ghost-haunted ruined city that was once the capital of the Mughal Empire under the emperor Akbar.

Best for history and architecture buffs

India’s historic capital region forms the apex of the Golden Triangle. Delhi is a city and Union Territory, centred on Old Delhi – aka Shahjahanabad – and British-built New Delhi, India’s capital. Why visit? Well, if you walk almost anywhere in Old Delhi or New Delhi, you are likely to come across a historic building, ancient monument or timeworn tomb, mosque or fort.

Topping the shortlist of must-sees are Mughal- and Delhi Sultanate-era buildings such as UNESCO World Heritage-listed Humayun’s Tomb in Nizamuddin, the Qutab Minar in south Delhi, the Jama Masjid and Red Fort in Old Delhi and the Jantar Mantar observatory in New Delhi. Also make time for the 1980s Bahai House of Worship (Lotus Temple) and India Gate , at the heart of Delhi's government district.

Delhi is intense and chaotic but always interesting, and it's home to some of the finest cuisine (and street food) in the country. This is also a city that comes up trumps when it comes to entertainment – a visit to the bars and cafes of Hauz Khas Village in the evening will prove that point. And Delhi's markets – Karol Bagh , Janpath , Paharganj , Sarojini Nagar , Khan Market and Chandni Chowk – are great for picking up souvenirs and affordable fashions.

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Best for tea and toy trains

The former summer capital of the British Raj, the hill station of Darjeeling is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Kanchenjunga (Khangchendzonga) – the world's third-highest mountain at 8586m (28,169ft) – looks benevolently over this town, with its silver fir forests, meandering roads, lush tea gardens and plunging valleys.

As well as seeing relics of British colonialism, you can take a camping trek to the Singalila National Park , check out the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (where Tenzing Norgay was once director), climb up to Tenzing Rock, shop and promenade on The Mall and sample some of India's finest brews at one of the city's many tea estates. For a more spiritual experience, find peace at the Japanese Peace Pagoda , the Ghum, Dali and Bhutia Busty Buddhist monasteries, or the Mahakal Temple on Observatory Hill (where Hindu and Buddhist deities reside together).

The pride of Darjeeling is the tiny "toy train" that travels along the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway . This UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway runs downhill to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to connect with trains from Kolkata , but most tourists focus on the short trip by steam locomotive between Darjeeling and Ghum.

Detour: For a change of scene, there are more beautiful hill stations surrounding Darjeeling, such as Kalimpong, Kurseong, and Mirik – all accessible by shared 4WD.

Best for relaxation

One of India’s smallest states, Goa is a top holiday spot thanks to its sun, sand, food, and vibes. Despite its small size, the state is culturally rich, with unique music, food, dance, and architecture, influenced by four centuries of Portuguese colonial rule. Get a glimpse of this heritage at the ruined basilicas of Old Goa, at centuries-old Goan homes such as Figueiredo House and Palácio do Deão , and at concerts of mando and fado music.

Goa is blessed with a long, sandy coastline, and many activities here are centered on the beaches, from water sports to yoga. Step away from the sand and the hinterland reveals quiet villages with interesting local customs and festivals. Goa is also growing as a culinary destination, offering a taste of many different Indian and world cuisines and exciting new interpretations of local food.

Local tip: When choosing a Goa beach, North Goa has the parties and night markets, hippie culture, surfing schools, buzzing beaches and hip new cafes and bars. South Goa is known for its natural beauty, quiet beaches, wildlife sanctuaries such as Bhagwan Mahavir near Molem and Netravali near Palolem, and prehistoric sites such as Usgalimal .

5. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Best for desert romance

Jaisalmer is India's city of gold, thanks to the gleaming color of its undulating sand dunes and sandstone buildings touched by the rays of the setting sun. The biggest attraction here is the living city inside Jaisalmer Fort . Inside, you will find havelis (traditional manors), royal palaces, timeless Hindu and Jain temples, and stalls selling an assortment of locally-made artifacts, accessories, jewelry and paintings.

Away from the fort, Jaisalmer’s heritage can be explored in opulent historic homes such as Patwa’s Kotha Haveli (and museum), and on visits to the five-story Tazia Tower in the Mandir Palace complex. Also make time for the sandstone cenotaphs at  Vyas Chhatri , and the ancient stone buildings around the Gadisar and Amar Sagar Lakes.

Planning Tip : The famous sand dunes are located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, in the heart of the Thar desert. The Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri are the most popular spots, but overnight camel safaris that travel deeper into the desert will take you away from the crowds. For a comfortable overnight desert stay, book a night at one of the tented desert camps around Jaisalmer.

Best for backwaters and beaches

A lush paradise following India’s western coast, Kerala is blessed with beautiful beaches, placid backwaters, rich wildlife, myriad art forms and a diverse culture that more than justifies its celebrity status. But this steamy southern state offers more than just Ayurvedic massages. Onam, Vishu and other local festivals give a glimpse of the state’s rich culture, in the form of dance and music, cuisine, handicrafts and martial art forms. Try to catch a performance of Kathakali or Mohiniyattam dance.

If you're lured to Kerala by the sand, the west coast is dotted with unspoiled beaches such as Kovalam and Varkala , while Alappuzha (Alleppey) is the gateway to backwater cruises by houseboat. To the east are hill stations such as Munnar , Wayanad and Thekkady, where tea, coffee and spice plantations grow luxuriantly across the hillsides. Sloth bears, Indian bison and tigers can be found in wildlife sanctuaries such as Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, Aralam, Neyyar , and Begur, and in national parks such as Periyar Tiger Reserve .

Planning Tip: If visiting the historic port city of Kochi (Cochin), go during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale , a popular contemporary arts festival.

7. Leh, Ladakh

Best for a taste of the mountain life

A mystic land in the high Himalayas, Ladakh is blessed with stunning vistas, clear skies and dramatically picturesque mountain valleys. It is the ideal spot for anyone looking to rewind, digitally detox or connect with nature.

You'll find adventure aplenty. You can trek into the lofty Markham and Nubra Valleys or attempt the climb up the highest trekkable peak in India, 6153m (20,187ft) Stok Kangri. Ladakh’s twisting roads offer a uniquely thrilling experience to those seeking an epic road trip, especially the crossing over the Khardung La pass on the highest motorable road in the world.

Most people visiting Ladakh's ‘Little Tibet’ begin the journey in Leh – a capital city blessed with a cool, dry climate and significant religious sites such as the Shanti Stupa and towering Leh Palace . You can learn about Tibetan and Buddhist culture at Ladakh's many monasteries (try timeless Thiksey Gompa near Leh) or warm up with some traditional Ladakhi food – a unique mix of Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese culinary traditions.

Planning tip: Bear in mind that while summer is the best season to visit Ladakh, it is also the most crowded time in Leh. During winter, many parts of Ladakh are closed. Road travel to Leh from Manali or Srinagar is usually only possible from April to November when the high passes are clear of snow.

8. Madhya Pradesh

Best for glimpses of tigers

Madhya Pradesh sits in the heart of India – a vast territory known as the "tiger state" because of its tiger-stalked national parks, sanctuaries and reserves. It's tough to choose between the state's parks, which are famed for their successful conservation efforts. As well as tigers, Kanha Tiger Reserve is a good spot to see the endangered barasingha (swamp deer). Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is famous for tiger sightings and Pench – which many believe was the inspiration for The Jungle Book – has rare black leopards. Indian giant squirrels find a home in Satpura, while Panna is home to seven endangered species of vultures.

Definitely set aside time to visit the heritage site of Khajuraho , whose architecturally rich temples are famous for their erotic sculptures. Other worthy stops include the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sanchi , and the rock shelters of Bhimbetka , showing traces of early life in India. 

9. Meghalaya

Best for natural beauty  

This ‘abode of the clouds’ in India’s often-overlooked northeast is a testament to the country's natural beauty. Meghalaya is blessed with thundering waterfalls, green hills and an extensive network of caves and lakes.

It’s a region ideal for those who love adventure, enjoy trying new and exciting cuisines, and want to understand India's Adivasi (indigenous) culture. Definitely stop by the village of Mawlynnong near the Bangladesh border, billed as one of Asia's cleanest villages.

The main attraction in the state is visiting the living root bridges created by the Khasi people, who coaxed the roots of Indian rubber trees to intertwine, forming natural bridges across rivers. Reaching these bridges, especially the famous double-decker root bridge near Nongriat, requires some cardiovascular exercise. You can find more of these beauties around Dawki and Cherrapunji (Sohra).

Planning tip: Meghalaya is best explored towards the end of the monsoon when the rain is receding but waterfalls are still in full flow. Public transport isn’t great, so hire a car and driver to get around. 

Best for temples, arts and crafts

Odisha (formerly Orissa) is a state of many merits. As well as a rich religious heritage, it boasts good (if little-known) food, Indigenous arts and crafts, natural beauty, thriving wildlife and fascinating tribal culture. The history of Buddhism in India is also on display at more than 100 sacred sites and historic monuments.

The highlights of any visit are the state's temples. Chief among them is the chariot-shaped Sun Temple at Konark, which is a marvel of Kalinga architecture. The coastal town of Puri is also home to major temples, including the Jagannath Temple , setting for a vast chariot festival known as Ratha Yatra in June or July.

Different regions are popular for their arts and crafts. Cuttack is known for its silver filigree work, Raghurajpur for pattachitra (cloth painting) and Pipili for appliqué-work. Wildlife sanctuaries here offer different treasures – Gahirmatha is home to Olive Ridley turtles; Bhitarkanika shelters endangered saltwater crocodiles and herons; and Nandankanan has white and black (pseudo-melanistic) tigers.

Planning tip: There’s always a festival or fair happening in Odisha. Puri's Ratha Yatra attracts the biggest numbers, but the Konark Dance Festival in February and the Puri Beach Festival in November are popular too.

11. Rann of Kachchh (Kutch), Gujarat

Best for desert colors and silence

This vast area of salt flats in the Thar Desert in Gujarat is one of the largest salt deserts in the world, and ideal for those who love photography and soaking in untouched natural beauty. The Rann of Kachchh (Kutch) is also where you go to find wildlife such as migrating flamingos and the endangered Indian wild ass. Both can be seen in the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and the Wild Ass Sanctuary . Learn about the Kutchhi people who live here and their embroidery traditions, and explore the archaeological site of Dholavira. Each winter, the government hosts the Rann Utsav festival – a carnival of arts, folk dance and music.

Detour: Another major festival in the Thar Desert is the Pushkar Camel Fair in November, a huge annual camel fair accompanied by a multi-day cultural fête, held in the sacred town of Pushkar near Ajmer city in Rajasthan .

12. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Best for some lake therapy

Rajasthan loves its titles. If Jaipur is the Pink City, and Jodhpur is the Blue City, then Udaipur is the White City and the City of Lakes. It’s a befitting title for a city surrounded by seven lakes. 

There’s so much to do in this vibrant city. Take in the city view from the City Palace and trek up to the Sajjan Garh Monsoon Palace overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake . Or take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to admire the city's floating palaces – it may be touristy, but it's highly recommended. Udaipur also has its own ghats, of which Gangaur is the most popular.

To see the city's spiritual side, marvel at the intricate sculptures covering the Jagdish Temple or take the ropeway to Karni Mata Temple, high above the lakeshore. By the water at Gangaur Ghat, Bagore Ki Haveli is a museum by day, and a performance venue by night – come here in the early evening to see traditional Rajasthani dances.

Billed as a city of romance, Udaipur is a popular site for weddings, and if you're lucky, you may catch a baraat (bridegroom procession) or two while you're in town. 

Planning tip: Udaipur is chock full of murals on its whitewashed walls. Set some time aside to wander the narrow streets and take in the intricate and colorful artwork and graffiti.

13. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Best for spirituality and street food

Arguably India’s most sacred city, Varanasi (Benaras) is where you go for a dose of spirituality. Located on the banks of the holy River Ganges (Ganga), the city's riverside ghats are where thousands of pilgrims gather to bathe and seek redemption, cremate the dead and partake in rituals. You can observe the whole cycle of life and death play out on the banks of the river.

The Ganga aarti ceremony, traditionally conducted at dusk, is an incredible visual spectacle. Many visitors also gather to watch – respectfully – the funeral services at Manikarnika Ghat . A walk through the city behind the ghats will introduce you to historic buildings such as Ramnagar Fort , the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple , Alamgir Mosque and the Man Mandir Observatory. The Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath , where the Buddha preached his first sermon, is a short drive outside the city.

Varanasi also has a thriving street food culture. Its tangled lanes and bazaars are filled with vendors dishing out kachoris (fried stuffed pastries), chaats (savory snacks), jhal muri (puffed rice, vegetables and spices) and aloo puri (puffed flatbread with spiced potatoes).

Planning tip: Two souvenirs unique to the region are Benarasi paan (betel nut for chewing, with dried dates) and the Benarasi saree, woven from local silk with fine silver or gold brocade.

This article was first published Mar 20, 2022 and updated Oct 7, 2024.

Explore related stories

Art and Culture

Oct 18, 2024 • 8 min read

Picture rows of oil lamps twinkling in the night and streets filled with popping firecrackers... Here are the best places in the world to celebrate Diwali.

Oct 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Sep 30, 2024 • 9 min read

Sep 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Sep 19, 2024 • 9 min read

Sep 12, 2024 • 10 min read

Sep 10, 2024 • 10 min read

Sep 10, 2024 • 15 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 8 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 12 min read

20 Best Places to Visit in India

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 30, 2022

Deeply traditional yet endlessly surprising, India is one of those destinations that ends up on every traveler's bucket list at some point. They might dream of going to Agra to see the Taj Mahal in all its glory, or exploring the royal palaces scattered throughout Rajasthan. Others find themselves attracted to the jaw-dropping landscapes in Darjeeling and Rishikesh , or the postcard-perfect beaches in Goa.

There's also India's big cities– New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata –each of which has its own distinctive personality. It's impossible to get bored exploring the temples, markets, and colorful streets of India's biggest urban centers. The hardest part of traveling to India is figuring out exactly what to see on your journey.

Whether you're going on an epic backpacking trip or a luxe vacation, plan your adventure with this list of the best places to visit in India.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Andaman islands, mcleod ganj, map of places to visit in india.

If there was just one symbol to represent all of India, it would be the Taj Mahal . The monument inspires millions of tourists to make the trip to Agra every year, waking up before dawn to see magnificent structure radiate at sunrise. But Agra tops the list of the best places to visit in India for reasons that go beyond India's most famous attraction.

The city in Uttar Pradesh is chock-full of marvelous Mughal monuments , like Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and Akbar's Mausoleum , decked out in hypnotic inlaid marble designs from top to bottom. Plus, tourists can also see another UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Agra Fort. With so many wonders in just one place, Agra is a must-visit city for tourists in India.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Despite its crowds and chaos, New Delhi offers tourists a lot to love. The colorful capital of India is the perfect marriage of heritage and modernity. Old Delhi contains some of the country's most treasured attractions, including the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Chandni Chowk shopping thoroughfare. But throughout the sprawling city, tourists can explore countless other sites of spiritual and cultural importance.

Top tourist attractions in New Delhi include the Lotus Temple; India Gate; Humayun's Tomb; and India's tallest minaret, Qutub Minar. Fill your days exploring these mesmerizing sites, and refueling at street-side chai stalls and high-end restaurants.

Want to see a more cosmopolitan side of India? Head to the energetic, coastal city of Mumbai–home to ultra-wealthy entrepreneurs and the hottest Bollywood actors. Tourists are never far from five-star hotels or gourmet restaurants in this luxe city. And even if those activities are out of budget, a cruise down the beloved Marine Drive will make you feel like royalty as you catch a glimpse of the scenic coast and glamorous Art Deco buildings.

You can also see a more authentic, local side of Mumbai in the bustling "Thieves Market" or at the Churchgate railway station , where hundreds of thousands of homemade lunches are packed up for delivery to the city's office workers every day.

Make sure you devote a day to checking out Sanjay Gandhi National Park and exploring the 2,000-year-old Kanheri Cave carvings.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Translated to "Land of Kings," Rajasthan brims with remnants of the kings and queens of past centuries. Between its glittering palaces , stately forts, and lively festivals, this western state deserves a starring role in your trip to India.

Jaipur , part of the Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit, which also includes Agra and New Delhi, is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. Dubbed "The Paris of India," it's known for its characteristic pink buildings, lavish City Palace, and jewelry stores galore.

The "Blue City," Jodhpur , offers tourists an equally unforgettable experience in its hilltop Mehrangarh Fort .

Udaipur oozes romance with its flower-lined streets and fantastic City Palace Complex , where the royal family still lives today.

And Jaisalmer looks like an Arabian Nights fairy tale brought to life, with its yellow sandstone structures and historic havelis (mansions). No matter where you end up in this desert state, you'll be captivated by the magic of Rajasthan.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Rishikesh has been on the radar for spiritually minded travelers since the late 1960s, when the Beatles spent time in Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram –now an abandoned site that has become an off-the-beaten-path tourist attraction for fans.

The town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the holy Ganges River, and serves as a center for yoga and pilgrimages . Take part in the action, or just enjoy the sounds of the temple bells and sightseeing from Rishikesh's two suspension bridges , often guarded by assertive families of monkeys. Keep your distance.

One of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is arguably the holiest place in India. The spiritual activities take place along the sacred Ganges River, where pilgrims bathe and mourners cremate recently deceased relatives in plain view of passersby.

Tourists, on the other hand, find their own flavor of spiritualism taking sunrise boat rides, releasing floral blessings that float on the river, and watching the fire-filled Hindu chanting ceremonies from the steep ghats.

Away from the water, the streets of the old town twist and turn like an endless maze. Legend has it that there's still no accurate map of Varanasi, and once you experience the labyrinthine city for yourself, you'll be inclined to believe it.

Amritsar, the "Jewel of Punjab," has made its claim to fame with its remarkable Golden Temple . One of the holiest places in the world for Sikhs, the gilded structure is a sight to behold, glistening in the sun and reflecting into the large pool that surrounds it.

The attraction also boasts the world's largest community kitchen , which serves 100,000 diners (including curious tourists!) lentils and curries every day.

While in Amritsar, plan to spend an afternoon at the border of Pakistan to see the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Goose-stepping guards from long-term rivals India and Pakistan open and close the border gates at dusk in an over-the-top ceremony you'll never forget. Get there early to dance to blaring Bollywood music with locals in the streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Amritsar

India's not just full of big cities and holy sites–it also has incredible beaches down south in Goa. Its stretches of golden sand along the Arabian Sea offer something for every type of tourist, whether you're interested in hanging out with the backpacker crowd in laid-back beach huts or having a ritzy tropical getaway at a five-star resort.

One unique part of Goa is its blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. You'll experience the fusion throughout the destination, from its Baroque architecture and cathedrals to its spicy vindaloo curries and seafood dishes.

Head south of Goa, and you'll trade beaches for tranquil backwaters in Kerala. Nothing beats the experience of hopping aboard a traditional thatched-top houseboat in Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha ) and slowly floating through palm-fringed lagoons and rivers, either as a day trip or overnight adventure. You'll enjoy freshly cooked Indian cuisine on the water and breathtakingly beautiful natural sights and wildlife.

Easygoing Kerala is like a breath of fresh air from the intensity of cities like New Delhi and Jaipur up north. Schedule some time here when you're in need of a break from the chaos.

Time travel isn't a reality for travelers quite yet, but you can get pretty close at the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra. Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the caves feature intricate carvings from at least 1,500 years ago.

The Ajanta Caves are the oldest of the two attractions, featuring around 30 Buddhist cave monuments cut into the rock as far back as the 2nd century BC.

Around 100 kilometers southwest, the Ellora Caves contain nearly three dozen Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu carvings, the most famous of which is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a massive structure devoted to Lord Shiva that features life-size elephant sculptures . The magnificent carvings at both sites will leave you filled with wonder.

Sightseeing in India doesn't get much better than what you'll discover in Darjeeling. The hill station in West Bengal is beloved for its lush green tea plantations , awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks (including Khangchendzonga , the world's third-highest mountain), and serene Buddhist monasteries. This is the perfect place to arrange a mountain trek or mountain biking adventure.

One of the most popular things to do in Darjeeling is taking a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Powered by an antique steam locomotive, the 140-year-old " Toy Train " takes tourists on two-hour fun rides from Darjeeling to Ghum– a journey that's regularly counted as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

India's third-largest city, Kolkata, is a decaying masterpiece of former British India, brimming with colonial-era architecture . The top things to do in Kolkata include seeing the Victoria Memorial, a white marble monument that features a museum with dozens of galleries, and Park Street, a famous thoroughfare with shops and restaurants that bustle 24/7, especially during the holidays.

But Kolkata is as much about the sites as it is about the emotions. This is a city that will somehow induce every one of your emotions with the highs and lows of life taking place in plain view on every street. Brace yourself, and be open to the experience.

The largest city in Gujarat , Ahmedabad is a noisy, overwhelming metropolis that somehow wins over the tourists who make their way here. The historic city of Ahmedabad earned the coveted title of India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017 for its rich architecture, walls and gates, and significant Hindu and Jain temples.

On the western bank of the Sabarmati River , tourists can wander around Sabarmati Ashram , Gandhi's headquarters from 1917 to 1930. Its museum talks about the life of the Indian hero, and displays his iconic spectacles and spinning wheel. While you're in the city, sample the street food –some say it's the best in all of India.

When the temperatures skyrocket in New Delhi and other cities in North India, tourists and locals alike make their way to cooler climates in the hill stations, the most popular of which is Shimla. The cloudy weather and forested hillsides make for a satisfying escape from the heat, as well as a placid place to spend a weekend or more. The atmosphere in the hilly central part of town, where traffic is banned, is just as pleasant as the scenic outskirts.

While you're in the area, make a reservation on the Kalka-Shimla Railway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 96.6-kilometer-long railroad, which has been running for over a century, is renowned for its stunning views and authentic vintage experience.

While culturally different, South India is as enchanting as the north–just visit Mysore to see for yourself. The third-largest city in Karnataka is considered to be the cultural capital of the state, celebrated for its high-quality silk , Mysore painting tradition, and hypnotic Hindu temples with deity carvings that nearly touch the clouds.

Most tourists visit Mysore to see its World Heritage-listed palace. This attraction takes Indian grandeur to the next level, with endless mirrored decor, stained-glass windows, carved wooden doors, and intricate mosaic floors that look like the inside of a kaleidoscope. The palace is considered to be one of the country's finest examples of Indo-Saracenic design. Be sure to swing by to see the palace at night, when it's lit up with thousands of twinkle lights.

Situated amid the jagged crags of the Karakoram and Zanskar mountain ranges , Ladakh offers tourists the chance to immerse themselves in an awe-inspiring alpine desert. Driving around the region's winding roads comes with one incredible natural view after the next: plunging valleys, gushing rivers, snowcapped peaks, and more. Ladakh's enchanting capital, Leh , stands at 3,500 meters above sea level, so you'll want to spend at least a few days acclimating to the altitude before embarking on any strenuous activities.

Ladakh didn't open to tourists until 1974. Given its difficult-to-reach location and its long-time isolation, the Buddhist-majority region has retained a unique cultural identity and a somewhat "untouched" feel. You'll see Buddhist monasteries and temples all around Leh's Old Town, and countless colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

Don't miss the nine-story Leh Palace , which dates back to the 17th century, as well as the Shanti Stupa –a monument to world peace. You can also see a superbly sustainable way of life in this traditional community, which receives very little imported goods and remains largely self-sufficient.

In a country as sweltering as India, it's a relief to find cool weather in hill stations all over the country. Manali happens to be one of the most popular among local and foreign tourists alike. Located in Himachal Pradesh , the high-altitude resort town in the Himalayas makes an easy getaway from Jaipur, New Delhi , or Punjab. The tourist-friendly Old Manali neighborhood brims with chilled-out cafés; great restaurants; and home-stay accommodations, where visitors can experience a local way of life.

Manali is also a convenient base if you want to experience the great outdoors in this beautiful region of North India. From here, you can go trekking in the Parvati Valley, paragliding and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal mountains, and white-water rafting down the Beas River. Outfitters around the town can assist with all the arrangements and gear rentals.

Take one look at Kodagu's hilly emerald landscape perpetually blanketed by a cloud of mist, and you'll instantly see why this hill station is nicknamed "the Scotland of India." Previously called Coorg, the affluent area's biggest draws are its coffee and spice plantations . Tours of historic agricultural sites give tourists up-close views of how these foods are grown and produced. The lush scenery also makes for great bird-watching and trekking , especially in the Western Ghats.

Other popular things to do in Kodagu include seeing the 21-meter Abbey Falls gushing after the rainy season, hearing the chants of young monks at the Namdroling Monastery's famous Golden Temple, visiting the 17th-century Madikeri Fort , and watching elephants take a bath at Dubare Elephant Camp.

Andaman Islands are the go-to place in India if you're looking for a classic beach vacation. They'll treat you to powder-white sand beaches flanked by coconut palms, pastel-streaked sunsets, the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and dense jungle landscapes. No postcard could possibly capture the majesty of this gorgeous destination.

Its ultra remote location, closer to Indonesia than mainland India, presents challenges for those who want to step foot on one of the few dozen islands open to tourists. You'll need to take a domestic flight from a major Indian city, such as Chennai, New Delhi, or Mumbai . Or, you can brave one of the long-distance ferry rides across the Bay of Bengal .

The effort can be well worth the reward, though. You'll have some of India's best beaches almost all to yourself, and the chance to see rare birds and thriving coral reefs. Culture hounds and history buffs will also relish exploring the Victorian British ruins on Ross Island , which are slowly being engulfed by the jungle.

Did you know you can visit the home of the Dalai Lama on a trip to India? The Tibetan spiritual leader's base can be found at the Tsuglagkhang complex , a monastic village in the hill station of McLeod Ganj.

Most afternoons, you can see monks passionately debate one another in the central courtyard. Make your way around the complex to see pilgrims (many of whom are in exile from Tibet) spinning prayer wheels and prostrating in prayer, along with the temple and throne on which the Dalai Lama delivers his teachings. There's also a small Tibet Museum on-site, which gives tourists a deeper understanding of the struggle Tibetans face amid Chinese occupation through moving photo exhibits and a video.

The Tsuglagkhang complex alone makes it well worth a visit to McLeod Ganj, but you can also check out a range of other attractions throughout Dharamsala. Watch artisans teach and practice traditional Tibetan art, like woodcarving and thangka painting at the Norbulingka Institute . Make the nine-kilometer trek up Triund Hill to catch views of the mighty Dhauladhar mountain range. And on your way to the Bhagsu Waterfalls , make a stop at the Bhagsunag Temple to see the ancient sacred pools, believed to be filled with healing waters.

More on India