Exploring new places can be one of the most enriching experiences in life. A land of diverse cultures, rich history, and stunning landscapes, India offers a plethora of serene natural landscapes with breathtaking views. The travel experiences here are unparalleled. While visiting India, from the vibrant cities bustling with life to the tranquil villages where time seems to stand still. Each location offers a unique glimpse into different cultures, histories, and environments.
So, let us explore some of the must-visit places in India that capture the essence of India’s multifaceted identity and give you an unforgettable experience.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – The Spiritual Capital of India
Known to be the ‘Spiritual Capital of India’, Varanasi – also known as Kashi is the world’s oldest living city. This city is the land of temples, Kashi Vishwanath Temple being the most visited. It is believed that people who die in Kashi attain moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. Along the sacred river of the Ganges, 80 ghats beautifully display the rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices. The main ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat witnesses the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, with the rhythmic movement of lamps, fire, and chants. The local markets of Varanasi such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar offer a variety of handcrafted silk, brassware, and traditional Banarasi sarees.
Major Attractions of Varanasi:
- Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Banaras Hindu University
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Assi Ghat
- Ganga Aarti
- Ganga Mahotsav
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir
- Boating
Nearest Railway Station: Kashi railway station
Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport
Best time to visit: September to February
Hampi, Karnataka – The Abode of Bygone Ruins
The city of ruins, Hampi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city was the capital city of the Vijayanagar Empire around 1500 AD. Surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys, beautiful temples, and bustling street markets, the city is a historical delight for travellers. The city is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River and is an open museum to explore various beauties of history.
Major Attractions of Hampi:
- Virupaksha Temple
- Vithala Temple
- Lotus Temple
- Hampi Bazaar
- Hippie Island
Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction
Nearest Airport: Vidyanagar Airport (VDY)
Best Time: October to March
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh – The Land of Jungle Book
Heard of the novel, The Jungle Book, right? Kanha National Park provides the setting for this classic novel by Rudyard Kipling. Situated in the Maikal range of Satpuras in Madhya Pradesh, the park is rich in lush saal and bamboo forests, lakes, streams, and open grasslands.
Kanha National Park is also regarded well for its research and conservation programs and has also saved the lives of many endangered species. The visibility of tigers has also increased in recent years. The park is known for its various species of fauna such as swamp deer and also a variety of birds.
Major Attractions of Kanha National Park:
- Bamni Dadar Plateau
- Safari at the park
- Royal Bengal Tiger
Nearest Railway Station: Gondia Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Jabalpur Airport (JLR)
Best time to visit: October to June
Munnar, Kerala – Tea Gardens and Lakes
A town in the Western Ghats mountain range, Munnar is located in the Kerala state of India. Surrounded by rolling hills dotted with tea plantations, it was a former resort for the British Raj elite. The place is also home to the endangered mountain goat Nilgiri tahr.
Major Attractions of Munnar:
- Echo Point
- Atukkad Waterfalls
- Pothamedu View Point
- Tata Tea or KDHP Museum
- Chinnakanal Waterfalls
- Mattupetty Dam
- Periyar National Park
Nearest Railway Station: Kochi Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Best time to visit: October to February
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Gulmarg, Kashmir – The Abode of Beauty
Tucked away in the picturesque valley of Kashmir, Gulmarg is no less than a fairytale land. Also known as the Meadow of Flowers, it is one of the best hill stations to visit in India.
It is a popular skiing destination and is also known for one of the longest cable car projects in Asia. Other than skiing or winter adventure sports, one can enjoy trekking and golfing as well.
Major Attractions of Gulmarg:
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Golf Course
- Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Baba Reshi Shrine
- Shark FinKongdori
- Maharani Temple
- St Mary’s Church
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
Best time to visit: March to June
Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu – Tamil Nadu’s Ghost Town
Dhanushkodi is a ghost town, situated on the southeastern tip of Pamban Island. Due to its location on the convergence of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, it is often referred to as the “Last Land of India”.
The mystic charm of the place lies in its ruins, pristine beaches, and azure waters telling tales of a once-thriving town now reclaimed by nature.
Major Attractions of Dhanushkodi:
- Dhanushkodi Beach
- Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
- Adam’s Bridge
- Pamban island
- Church and Station Ruins
- Ramar Patham temple
Nearest Railway Station: Rameshwaram
Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Best Time: October to February
Lakshadweep Island
With an area of 32 sq. km, Lakshadweep Island is home to 36 islands. Because of the far-off area, the island attracts no hordes of merrymakers to the shores. The islands offer a great tourist spot and are known for diving and water sports, still
The place is also known for its seafood cuisine and local delicacies such as grilled fish, prawn curry, and coconut-infused dishes. The traditional island villages nearby allow us to interact with local communities and learn about the unique customs and traditions of the region.
Major Attractions of Lakshadweep:
- Minicoy Island
- Agatti Island
- Kalpeni Island
- Kavarati
- Bangaram Island
- Marine Museum
Nearest Railway Station: Kannur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Best time to visit: September to May
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