Anyone who loves to travel knows that India’s beauty lies in its diversity. Our country is an exciting melting pot of different and alluring landscapes, cultures, languages and gourmet delights. No two states are exactly the same, which can make it challenging to plan a trip. You literally might want to go everywhere! However, here, we have eased your task a bit by listing down 30 best places to visit in India. Find out more about them, including when to go, how long to stay, how to reach and their main attractions.
Beautiful Places to Visit in India
1. Nubra Valley in Ladakh
Nubra Valley | #1 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
The barren rugged view of this valley, which lies between Kashmir and Tibet, will take your breath away. You can feast your eyes on charming monasteries, the Nubra and Shyok rivers, Bactrian camels, and sand dunes. A photographer’s delight, the valley is home to people of the Balti culture in Turtuk.
- Best time to visit – June to August
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the nearest airport (162 km), from where you can take a bus or taxi.
- By Train: Or, you can travel by train to the Leh railway station from Jammu or Kashmir, and then take a taxi or bus.
- By Road: You can take a taxi from Leh to reach the valley (160 km away)
2. Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar | #2 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Popularly known as Mini Switzerland, Khajjiar deserves your attention if you are looking for places in India for honeymoon. The combination of lush green meadows, lofty Himalayas encased in snow and dense forests make this place heavenly. Here, you can enjoy adventures like trekking, zorbing, jungle safari and paragliding.
- Best time to visit – March to October
- Ideal duration – 2-3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: You can fly to Kangra Airport (109 km from Khajjiar) and then take a taxi.
- By Train: The closest station is Pathankot (96 km from Khajjiar), from where you can board a taxi.
- By Road: You can take a taxi from Dalhousie or Chamba (24 km from Khajjiar).
Also Read about Skydiving in India
3. Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand
Valley of Flowers | #3 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
If you are in love with the vibrant colours of nature, this valley should feature on your list of beautiful tourist places in India. Peppered with exotic and rare Himalayan flowers, it attracts trekkers and photographers in droves. This national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason.
- Best time to visit – July to September
- Ideal duration – 1 day of stay, but the trek from Haridwar takes about 6 days.
- How to reach –
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is at 284 km, from where you can hire a cab till Joshimath (11 hours). Gobindghat is another hour from here. From Gobindghat, you have to trek for 13 km to reach the Ghangaria base camp.
- By Train: Rishikesh railway station is 273 km from Gobindghat, and you can take a taxi or bus from the station.
- By Road: You can get a bus or taxi from Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Srinagar, Pauri, or Chamoli.
- Recommended Read: Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
4. Dal Lake in Srinagar
Dal Lake | #4 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
The serene Dal Lake is one of the most beautiful places in India to visit before you die. Also known as the Lake of Flowers or Srinagar’s Jewel, it is 1775 m above sea level, and a shikara ride on the lake can lift your spirits instantly.
- Best time to visit – May to November
- Ideal duration – 1 day (in a houseboat if possible)
- How to reach –
- By Air: You can reach Srinagar International Airport (22 km from Dal Lake) and then take a cab. Or, you can hire a cab to reach Lal Chowk and then board a bus.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Jammu (272 km from Srinagar). You can take a bus or taxi from there.
- By Road: Take a taxi or bus from Jammu. Srinagar can also be reached via road from Delhi or Chandigarh.
5. Munnar in Kerala
Munnar | #5 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
This idyllic hill station, nestled in the Western Ghats, was once a favourite of the British. Verdant green and rolling hills, beautiful tea plantations, and charming towns make Munnar one of the peaceful and beautiful places in India.
- Best time to visit – October to November
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Cochin International Airport (104 km from Munnar) and then take a cab.
- By Train: Take a train to reach the Cochin railway station (125 km from Munnar) and take a cab.
- By Road: You will get private or state-run buses to Munnar from all important cities in Kerala.
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Munnar
Also Read: Places to Visit in Munnar
6. Dudhsagar Falls in Goa
Dudhsagar Falls | #6 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
If you wish to witness the true power of waterfalls, do give this one a shot. The gushing water of this 4-tiered majestic fall,on the Mandovi River,creates a magical mist and gives it a milky white appearance. This waterfall promises hikers and trekkers an exhilarating experience.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 1 day
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Dabolim. From there, you can take a cab to the Mollem Village. Then, hire a jeep to reach the falls.
- By Train: First reach Madgaon railway station in Goa and then board a passenger train to reach Kullem. You can then start trekking.
- By Road: Take a cab to reach the Mollem Village first and then take a jeep.
Also Read: Dudhasagar Falls
7. Yumthang Valley in Sikkim
Yumthang Valley | #7 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Counted among the most remote and beautiful places in India, this valley gives you stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, verdant pastures, hot springs and colourful flowers. The sight of yaks grazing will put you in a serene mood at a height of 3700 m above sea level.
- Best time to visit – September to December
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (at 220 km), from where you can hire a cab.
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station (214 km from Yumthang). You can take a shared jeep or private taxi to first reach Gangtok and then Lachung and Yumthang Valley.
- By Road: Simply take a taxi from Gangtok.
Also, check places to visit in Sikkim
8. Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang | #8 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Gorgeous blue lakes, passes with amazing views, verdant greenery and tranquil monasteries make Tawang one of the best places to explore in India. The 400-year-old Tawang Monastery or Golden Namgyal Lhatse (second largest in the world) is a special attraction here. At a height of about 3048 m above sea level, Tawang boasts snowfall in November and December especially.
- Best time to visit – March to October
- Ideal duration – 5 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Salonibari Airport in Tezpur (323 km from Tawang) and then hire a Sumo to drive to Tawang.
- By Train: Tezpur railway station is 333 km from Tawang and you can hire a car from there.
- By Road: You can take a car to reach Tezpur from Guwahati and then hire a Bolero or Sumo to reach Tawang.
Also Read: India Tourism
9. Sundarbans Mangrove in West Bengal
Sundarbans Mangrove | #9 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Essentially a delta that has come into being due to the confluence of Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna Rivers, Sundarbans is among the wonderful places nature lovers can visit. Even if you are not lucky enough to sight the Royal Bengal Tiger, a boat ride amidst the mangroves will enchant you. Estuarine crocodiles and various birds are easy to spot.
- Best time to visit – September to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and then take a train to Canning or drive to Sonakhali, Namkhana or Raidighi. From Canning, you can go to Godkhali Port to avail a jetty ride. Launch services are available at Sonakhali, Namkhana or Raidighi.
- By Train: Catch a suburban train from Kolkata to Canning and then board a bus or auto to reach Godkhali Port. From there, it will take a jetty ride to reach Sundarbans.
10. Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park | #10 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Spread across 1334 sq.km, this sprawling national park attracts wildlife enthusiasts from all over. You can hope to come across leopards, tigers and marsh crocodiles, and soak in the beauty of PadamTalao Lake, dotted with water lilies. History buffs will be entranced by the Ranthambore Fort and the Ganesh Mandir.
- Best time to visit – April to June
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Jaipur International Airport is 182 km away. Once you reach, hire a cab to reach the park.
- By Train: Sawai Madhopur railway station is 14 km from the park and you can take a cab to cover the distance.
- By Road: You can take a private or state bus or a cab to reach the park from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Agra or Delhi.
Recommendation – National Parks in India
11. Varanasi Ghats in Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi Ghats | #11 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Find spiritual bliss in one of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi. The Ghats here overlook the holy River Ganga and draw countless Hindu pilgrims every year. Funeral rites conducted at the Ghats are believed to offer Nirvana to souls. The uniquely charming atmosphere combines age-old beliefs, evening prayers with lamps and the scent of incense and camphor.
- Best time to visit – September end to March
- Ideal duration – 2 – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Varanasi Airport is easy to reach from Mumbai, Delhi and other major cities. You can hire a cab then.
- By Rail: Varanasi railway station can be reached easily from Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities. You can then take a cab.
- By Road: You can board a private, state-run or luxury bus from Lucknow to reach Varanasi.
Recommendation – Places to Visit in Varanasi
12. Dawki in Meghalaya
Dawki | #12 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
The quaint town of Dawki not only connects India and Bangladesh, but is also counted among the clean and beautiful places in India which are plastic-free. It is nestled in the green Jaintia Hills and is particularly famous for the Umngot River, which is crystal clear and breathtaking. The suspension bridge over the river is an attraction too.
- Best time to visit – February to early March
- Ideal duration – 1- 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest airport is Guwahati Airport (196 km away), from where you can take a cab.
- By Train: You can hire a cab after reaching Guwahati railway station, which is 173 km from Dawki.
- By Road: You can take a cab from Guwahati to reach Dawki.
13. Bhedaghat in Madhya Pradesh
Bhedaghat | #13 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Are you passionate about unique terrains? A visit to Bhedhaghat is a must then, owing to the craggy Marble Rocks you can witness here. Overlooking the River Narmada, this town’s allure lies in the boat rides it offers in between the marble mountains that reach up to 100 feet in height.
- Best time to visit – September to March
- Ideal duration – 1- 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Jabalpur Airport is 33 km away and you can take a cab from there.
- By Train: Jabalpur railway station is 42 km away and you can hire a cab from there.
- By Road: You can take a state-run bus or shared auto from Jabalpur.
14. Rann of Kutch in Gujarat
Rann of Kutch | #14 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Widely known as the salt desert or salt marsh of India, the Rann has an unusual barren beauty, especially on a moonlit night. If you wish to enjoy the lively colours, sounds and scents of the Rann Utsav, plan your trip in November.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Bhuj (80 km away) and can be reached from major cities. After you land, hire a cab or auto.
- By Train: You can take a direct train from Mumbai to reach Bhuj (82 km from Rann) and then hire an auto or cab.
- By Road: Take a cab or auto from Bhuj.
15. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands | #15 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Among the most beautiful places in India for couples during winter, Andaman and Nicobar Islands rank high for its serenity, coral reefs, seafood joints, and are perfect for those who love to swim, snorkel or dive and explore marine life. Gorgeous blue-green waters, verdant forests and unforgettable sunsets add to the romance.
- Best time to visit – October to May
- Ideal duration – 5 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: You can get direct flights from Kolkata, Vizag and Chennai to the Veer Savarkar Airport in Port Blair. Then, hire a cab.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Winter in India
16. Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir
Gulmarg | #16 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Admire nature in all its glory in Gulmarg, a hill station in the Baramulla district. With the PirPanjal Range in its backdrop, Gulmarg is great for indulging in skiing, golfing, gondola rides, and leisurely pony rides.
- Best time to visit – March to June
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Gulmarg is 57 km from Srinagar Airport and you can take a cab to cover the distance. The airport is well-connected to major cities.
- By Train: You can take a bus or taxi from the Jammu Tawi railway station, which is 316 km away.
- By Road: You can board a local bus or hire a jeep to travel from Srinagar (50 km away).
17. Sand dunes in Jaisalmer
Sand dunes | #17 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
The colour of gold, sand dunes in Jaisalmer are gently undulating, almost barren and promise you an experience of a lifetime. A lazy camel ride over the crests and troughs can make for exclusive memories. You can enjoy vibrant cultural programs, bonfires, jeep safaris or stare at the clear night sky.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1 day for the dunes and 4 days for other sightseeing
- How to reach –
- By Air: Jaisalmer Airport is 15 km from Jaisalmer city. Once you reach the city, hire a SUV or jeep to reach the dunes at around 40 km.
- By Train: You can get a direct train from Jodhpur, Jaipur or Delhi to reach Jaisalmer. Then take a jeep or SUV.
- By Road: You can board a bus from Jaipur or Jodhpur to reach Jaisalmer. Then take a jeep to reach the dunes.
- Suggested Read: Places to visit in Jaisalmer
18. Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar | #18 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
This gorgeous green hill station is nestled in the Western Ghats and known for impressive viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head Point, Babington Point, and Lodwick Point. You can enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Venna Lake when you are not trekking along the peaks and valleys.
- Best time to visit – March to June
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: You can take a cab or bus from the Pune Airport (at 131 km).
- By Train: Take a cab or bus from the Wathar railway station (at 60 km).
- By Road: You can take a state-run or private bus or hire a cab from Mumbai or Pune.
Also, check Places to visit in Mahabaleshwar
19. Hampi in Karnataka
Hampi | #19 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
This ancient village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of those places in India to visit with family. History buffs will love the temple ruins that dot the landscape and date back to the Vijayanagara Empire. Apart from the stone chariot in front of the Vittala Temple site, take out time to admire the uneven terrain and rustic vibes.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2-3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: You can fly from Bangalore to Hubli Airport (168 km from Hampi) and then hire a cab.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (at 13 km) and well connected to other places in India. You can then take a cab.
- By Road: You can board a KSRTC bus from Bangalore to Hospet. Then, you can take a local bus or cab to reach Hampi.
- Suggested Read: Places to visit in Hampi
20. Mount Abu in Rajasthan
Mount Abu | #20 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
If a hill station in the middle of a massive desert is not nature’s miracle, we don’t know what is! Perched on a rocky and high plateau, this place is a part of the Aravalli Range. Visit the wondrous Dilwara Temples for their intricate carvings in white marble and enjoy boat rides on Nakki Lake.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Udaipur Airport is 183 km from Mount Abu. Hire a cab to cover the distance.
- By Train: You can take a train from Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad or Mumbai to reach Abu Road railway station. Then, take a cab.
- By Road: You can board a state or private bus from Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer or Delhi.
21. Agatti Island in Lakshadweep
Agatti Island | #21 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
If white beaches, swaying coconut trees, stunning turquoise waters and colourful marine life excite you, this island is the perfect vacation destination. Water skiing, snorkelling, boat rides, kayaking, scuba diving and sailing are some of the adventure activities this tropical paradise offers.
- Best time to visit – January to March and October to December
- Ideal duration – 5 -6 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: You will get flights to the island from Kochi.
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Lakshadweep
22. Chikmagalur in Karnataka
Chikmagalur | #22 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Situated at the base of Mullayanagiri Range, this hill station is a verdant getaway known for its numerous coffee plantations. You can trek through forests and grasslands to reach the Mullayanagiri Peak or sight leopards, elephants and tigers at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Best time to visit – September to May
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: You can fly to Mangalore Airport (158 km from Chikmagalur) and then hire a cab.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Kadur (at 39 km) from where you can take a cab. Or, you can reach Kadur by road from Bangalore city, via Tumkur and Arshikere.
- By Road: You can take a state or private bus from Mangalore, Bangalore, Hassan or Hubli.
- Suggested Read: Places to visit in Chikmagalur
23. Emerald Lake in Ooty
Emerald Lake | #23 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Surrounded by lush green hills of the Nilgiris, this picturesque lake is located in the silent valley and wows with its soothing blue-green waters. Fishing and boating are the popular activities you can indulge in here.
- Best time to visit – October to May
- Ideal duration – 1 day
- How to reach –
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport is 107 km from Ooty. Once you reach Ooty, take a cab to reach the lake.
- By Train: You can take a train from Coimbatore, Chennai, Bangalore or Mysore to reach Mettupalayam railway station and then hire a cab.
- By Road: Board a private or government bus from Mysore, Chennai or Bangalore to reach Ooty, Then take a cab.
24. Bir in Himachal Pradesh
Bir | #24 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Quaint and tiny, Bir is a charming hamlet with the majestic Dhauladhar Range in its background. Home to many Tibetans, this town will steal your heart with its green expanses and monasteries. This place is famous for camping, paragliding, trekking and mountain biking.
- Best time to visit – April to June
- Ideal duration – 4-5 days
- How to reach –
- By Train: Take a train from Amritsar, Jalandhar, Jammu or Rourkela to reach Pathankot Junction (142 km from Bir). Then take a bus or taxi.
- By Road: You can board an overnight private bus from Delhi to reach Bir. Or, you can reach Dharamshala from Delhi by bus and then take a cab.
25. Triveni Sangamam in Kanyakumari
Triveni Sangamam | #25 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
The southernmost tip of India is one of the wonderful places you can add to your wanderlust list. And the beach Triveni Sangamam is popular for witnessing the confluence of three seas – the Arabian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. Apart from capturing the natural beauty of the waves on your camera, take a holy dip too.
- Best time to visit – December to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Trivandrum (at 102 km), from where you can take a cab.
- By Train: Take a train to Kanyakumari railway station, which is 2 km from the Sangamam, and then take a bus, auto or taxi.
- By Road: You can board a bus from any major South Indian city to reach Kanyakumari. Then take a cab, bus or auto.
26. Auli in Uttarakhand
Auli | #26 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Snow-clad Himalayas and dense oak and coniferous forests make Auli a stunning place for nature lovers to seek peace and relaxation. Enjoy skiing at an altitude of around 2900 m or soak in scenic views from the ropeway that connects Auli with Joshimath.
- Best time to visit – May to November (pleasant) and November to March (for skiing)
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (179 km from Auli) and then take a cab.
- By Train: You can take a train from Delhi to reach Rishikesh railway station (192 km from Auli). Then take a bus or cab to reach Auli (before dusk). After dusk, you need to take the ropeway from Joshimath.
- By Road: You can take a bus to reach Rishikesh from Delhi and then take a private car to reach Auli.
27. Wayanad in Kerala
Wayanad | #27 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Among the most beautiful places to visit in India, the lush green and rustic district of Wayanad is a must mention. At a height of 2100m above sea level, it attracts trekkers and campers. From gorgeous flowers and waterfalls to exotic birds, animals and ancient caves, Wayanad has a lot to offer.
- Best time to visit – October to May
- Ideal duration – 4-5 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Kozhikode International Airport and then take a cab to reach Wayanad (97 km away).
- By Train: Kozhikode railway station is 85 km away, and you can take a cab or bus from there to reach Wayanad. Kozhikode is easy to reach from Kochi, Bengaluru or Chennai.
- By Road: You can board a super fast bus from Mangalore, Bangalore, Kochi or Trivandrum.
Suggested Reads: Kerala Day 2023, Places to visit in Wayanad
28. Gandikota Canyon in Andhra Pradesh
Gandikota Canyon | #28 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Located on the banks of the River Pennar, the Gandikota village is also a fort that was once a stronghold of Pemmasani Nayakas, the Golconda Sultanate and Kalyani Chalukyas. And the canyon is essentially the gorge created by the Pennar, offering amazing views.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Bangalore (345 km from Gandikota) and then hire a cab.
- By Train: Jammalamadugu railway station is 18 km from this town. You can get a direct train from Vijayawada Junction to Jammalamadugu and then take a taxi.
- By Road: You can hire a cab from Bangalore to Gandikota.
29. Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim
Gurudongmar Lake | #29 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
At a staggering elevation of 5430 m, this beautiful blue lake will blow your mind. The chilly water and pristine snow-clad mountains all around add to the unique appeal of this place. It is also considered sacred by Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs.
- Best time to visit – November to June
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: From Bagdogra Airport, take a taxi to reach Lachen (201 km away). Spend a night at Lachen and travel to the lake by road the next day.
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri railway station is 259 km from the lake. You can hire a taxi from there too.
- By Road: Hire a cab to travel from Gangtok to Lachen to the lake.
Also Read: Temples in India
30. Lake Pichola in Udaipur
Lake Pichola | #30 of 30 Most Beautiful Places in India
Apart from being the oldest lake in Udaipur, Lake Pichola is also one of the largest. The serene artificial fresh water of the lake reflects the Aravalli Mountains, which makes a boat ride worth it. Impressive palaces, Ghats and temples surround the lake, casting a magical light after sunset.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur and then take a cab to reach the lake, which is 31 km away.
- By Train: Take a train from Ajmer, Sealdah or Ahmedabad to reach Udaipur. Then, hire a taxi.
- By Road: You can take a state or private bus to reach Udaipur from Jodhpur, Bhilwara or Chittorgarh.
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Udaipur, Budget Hotels in Udaipur, Couple Friendly Hotels in Udaipur, Business Hotels in Udaipur
So, are you ready to give these 30 beautiful travelling destinations in India a shot? Let us know which ones appealed to you the most. Make sure you plan in advance, so that your trip is affordable and fun.
This post was last modified on 09-Apr-2024