It’s no secret that India is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture, with some truly spectacular sights dotted throughout!
As one of the most populous civilizations in the world, India certainly has plenty on offer for every type of traveler. After all, this is a land of glorious contrasts, with a staggering assortment of cuisines, climates, activities, and natural sites on the menu. No two states are the same and you’ll quickly realize there’s something special to explore in each area.
Best of all, India’s low cost of living makes it one of the most affordable destinations in the world – perfect for backpackers and budget travelers!
The country can be overwhelming for first-timers, though, with vast expanses of land and endless attractions. To help you out, I’ve put together this list of the most beautiful places in India – so let’s check them out!
1. The Taj Mahal
If you’re looking for the top 10 places to visit in India, then the Taj Mahal in Uttar Pradesh should be first on your list!
Not only does this stand as an epitome of everlasting love, but this majestic marble mausoleum is an absolute feast for the eyes. Built by the 16th century Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this monument is one of the Seven Wonders of the World as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to historians, the Emperor built the Taj Mahal in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, his third and favorite wife.
While entry to the tomb is restricted, visitors can stroll around the beautifully landscaped garden and pools around the mausoleum.
Now, I do have to warn you that the crowds can get pretty intense so you may wish to head there early in the morning for a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. The East Gate entrance tends to be less crowded.
2. The Siju Caves
Feeling adventurous? Then head over to the Siju Caves, located on the Meghalaya Plateau. These caves house some of the most beautiful river passages in India. As soon as you step in, you’ll be greeted by the trickling sound of water echoing almost mystically between the cave walls.
Be sure to point your flashlights at the walls since the Siju Caves are filled with gorgeous limestone formations. Because several cave chambers are still relatively unexplored, there are labyrinths all over the place. As such, it’s strongly recommended to visit with a licensed guide.
Not a lot is known about the Siju Caves. Because the caves have only been explored to a depth of around three miles, no one has completely mapped it out – and the mystery only adds to the allure of the place!
The caves house plenty of White-Blind fish and bats – which is why it’s locally known as ‘The Bat Caves’.
3. Goa
Ah, Goa. Easily one of the most beautiful places in India – not to mention the most fun!
With sun-soaked beaches and relics of its Portuguese colonial past, Goa is also one of the most visited states in India. This state has quite a rich history that dates all the way back to the 2nd century when it was ruled by the Kadamba Dynasty. In 1510, Goa was colonized by the Portuguese who ruled the state for over 400 years. Even though India took over the state in 1961, you’ll find plenty of Portuguese influences in Goa, from the food to the architecture, and even the culture.
There’s plenty of emphasis on well-being in Goa, with yoga and meditation classes speckled all over the place. Goa’s kaleidoscope of scenic spots is delightfully eclectic with forts, monuments, cultural sites, places of worship, and (of course!), those iconic palm-fringed beaches.
If you ask me, one of the best beaches in Goa is Palolem Beach. This beach is actually said to be the best nightspot in town, with silent disco parties smack dab on the shoreline!
4. The Valley of Flowers
I sure hope your phone is all charged and ready to go because believe me when I say you’ll want to immortalize the Valley of Flowers in a few hundred pictures!
An incredible site awash with natural wonders, the high-altitude Valley of Flowers National Park is located between Nepal and Tibet. A site that literally blooms under the monsoon rains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has around 300 different varieties of mountainous plants and flowers.
According to the locals, this valley was discovered by three British mountaineers in the early 1900s. The three men apparently stumbled upon the place after getting lost in the alpine wilderness. They were so struck by the hundreds of daisies, marigolds, poppies, orchids, anemones, and primulas that they decided to name it the Valley of Flowers.
Undoubtedly one of the most unique places in India, this park is a hotspot for trekking and wildlife-spotting opportunities. It’s home to endangered species like the musk deer, blue sheep, snow leopard, and red fox.
The Valley of Flowers is usually closed from October to November. I would recommend that you visit in July and August to see the flowers in full bloom.
5. Phugtal Monastery
Located in Ladakh, the Phugtal Monastery appears pretty unremarkable at first glance, but this place is shrouded in mystery.
For starters, this honeycomb-like structure is built both inside and around a hollow cave – and no one knows why it was built like that!
An excellent destination for hikers and history buffs alike, the monastery can easily make you feel like you’re disconnected from the rest of the world. No wonder it’s known as the most isolated monastery in the world! Its remote location is said to be a prime choice for monks looking for seclusion and the only way to reach the monastery is to trek from Cha Village.
Hikers will be glad to learn that the site is surrounded by a vast, rocky landscape hiding pockets of lush greenery, with a milky blue spring snaking between the valleys.
Speaking of water, another mysterious thing about Phugtal is that the cave water always flows at the same pace, regardless of the source conditions. This water is also believed to have medicinal properties.
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6. Jaipur
We can’t list the beautiful places in India without mentioning Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital city. After all, Jaipur has earned itself the title of ’48th most beautiful city in the world’.
Not only is Jaipur known for its rugged beauty, but it’s also one of the most hospitable places in India. In addition, the city is packed with history – which is why you’ll see ancient palaces and forts all over the place. If you’re wondering what it’s like to sleep in a palace, well you’ll be glad to learn that many of them have been restored and reconverted into hotels!
Just seven miles from Jaipur is found the historic Amber Fort which is perched on a hilltop. Drawing heaps of visitors each year, this fort is actually part of a palatial complex made from white marble and sandstone. If you really want to immerse yourself in Rajasthani culture, don’t miss a visit to Chokhi Dhani, a heritage village replete with cultural activities, folk dances, as well as arts and crafts exhibitions.
7. Living Root Bridges
‘Bridges are grown, not built’. At least, that’s what locals will tell you down in Cherrapunji, home of the legendary Living Roots Bridges.
First things first though: the root bridges are found deep in one of the wettest forests in India and you do need to trek a bit to reach them – so be sure to grab your waterproof hiking shoes!
Contrary to popular belief, these bridges weren’t formed naturally. Rather, they were handmade from the aerial roots of trees by the Jaintial and Khasi tribes. The local people often manipulate and prune the roots to ensure that the bridges stay strong. Once the roots have matured, the bridges can easily last for several centuries.
When exploring the area, keep an eye out for the Double Decker Bridge which is by far the largest and most popular of all Living Roots bridges. Extending over four miles, this bridge stands at 2,400 feet over the Umshiang River.
8. The Golden Temple
If you’re looking for beautiful places in India, then you certainly don’t want to miss a visit to the famous Golden Temple in Amritsar!
One of the most important sites for the Sikh community, the Golden Temple is an absolute architectural marvel made from white marble and crowned by a dome of pure gold.
The temple is actually found in a Gurdwara, which basically refers to a Sikh complex. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Gurdwara is known for serving free vegetarian meals to everyone who visits the place without any discrimination.
While the place looks absolutely mesmerizing during the day, I would also recommend that you visit at night when the Golden Temple is lit up with the lights reflecting brightly in the water.
Bear in mind that even though it draws heaps of tourists each year, the Golden Temple is an important religious place, so there are a few rules to follow. Men and women should both cover their heads, knees, and shoulders. Free head covers are available at the entry.
9. Kerala
Often referred to as ‘God’s own Country’, this southern state is especially known for its backwaters, beaches lined by palm trees, mountains, and a charming network of canals that are just waiting to be explored!
If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice in Kerala! The state is known for its delectable meals that comprise mainly fresh, tropical ingredients, exotic spices, and fresh seafood stewed in coconut milk.
With a particular emphasis on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, Kerala also happens to be a hotspot for various types of Ayurvedic treatment. I can totally vouch for Marari Beach where you’ll find plenty of Ayurvedic centers offering massages as well as yoga classes right on the shoreline.
Don’t miss a visit to the tea plantations as well!
10. Jim Corbett National Park
I’m sure by now you’ve realized that there’s no dearth of beautiful national parks in India. If you’re a nature lover, I can recommend a visit to the famous Jim Corbett National Park.
Undoubtedly one of the top 10 places to visit in India, this park is found in Uttarakhand. First established in 1936, the park is named after a famous naturalist and conservationist. There are heaps of wildlife-spotting opportunities since the Jim Corbett National Park is home to thousands of animals, including the Bengal Tiger.
Because the Ramganga River cuts through the park, you’ll also have the chance to spot alligators, King Cobras, and marine life such as the Golden Oriole or the Indian Pitta.
In the mood for something more thrilling? Well, rest assured that Jim Corbett National Park is packed with exciting activities like rock climbing, river rafting, trekking, and even rappelling.
11. Agra Fort
An impressive example of Mughal architecture, the Agra Fort was once a walled city. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century building is surrounded by a lush Persian-style garden that offers the ideal setting for an afternoon stroll.
On clear days, you can even admire unblemished views of the Taj Mahal from the garden.
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If visiting Cherrapunjee, be sure to check out Nohkalikai Falls which is the 4th tallest waterfall in the world! Tumbling from a height of over 1,000 feet, this mighty fall even carved a natural waterhole at the bottom.
For the best views, you may wish to visit during monsoon season.
13. Khajjiar
Next on our list of beautiful places in India is Khajjiar, which is often said to be the local version of Switzerland!
Nestled in the Himalayan ranges, this place boasts a majestic medley of mountainous meadows and glistening bodies of water. With endless hiking opportunities, Khajjiar is also home to a wildlife sanctuary.
14. Khatling Glacier
An absolute playground for experienced high-altitude trekkers, the Himalayan Khatling Glacier offers a captivating scenery of snow-capped peaks, glacier moraines, and ice sheets.
Several routes lead to the glacier, but my favorite is the Malla Village trail that’ll take you past various points of interest like the Kedarnath Temple.
15. Lake Pichola
If visiting Udaipur, be sure to check out Lake Pichola, known for its mirror-like surface. One of Udaipur’s largest lakes, Pichola is fringed by temples, palaces, and hills.
In my opinion, a sunset boat ride on the lake is the absolute best way of experiencing the place’s natural beauty.
16. Agumbe
Crisp mountainous air, biodiversity, and stunning vistas? Yes, please!
This is exactly what you can experience at the Agumbe Hill Station in Karnataka. Home to rare fauna and flora, this site features viewpoints, rainforests, temples, and waterfalls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is especially known for its reddish-amber sunsets.
17. Kutch The White Desert
Because Gujarat’s White Desert lies close to the Pakistani border, you need a permit to visit this place, but I promise that it’s worth it!
As the world’s largest salt desert, Kutch boasts various activities, including jeep and hot air balloon safaris. In the winter, you can even see the Milky Way from the desert.
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India is full of spectacular monuments- and the Charminar’s no exception! Built in the 16th century, this mosque in Hyderabad has a distinctive look thanks to its stucco accents, Persian elements, and Indo-Islamic architecture.
There are heaps to see around the monument, including Laad Bazaar which features handcrafted jewelry and souvenirs.
19. Lonar Crater Lake
Our list of beautiful places in India wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Lonar Crater Lake in Maharashtra.
Created by a meteorite, this National Geo-Heritage Lake is the only basaltic rock saltwater lake in the world. Nearby, you’ll also find ancient temples, some of which were built over 1,200 years ago!
20. Agatti Island
Here’s a scenic gem that very few tourists know about! Nestled off the coast of Kerala, Agatti Island presents a breathtaking vista of turquoise lagoons and colorful reefs.
This tropical island is an absolute hotspot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Because it’s part of the Lakshadweep Archipelago, you need a permit to visit Agatti.
21. Pondicherry
A quaint beach town that hugs India’s southeastern coast, Pondicherry is infused with vestiges of its French colonial past. Seekers of spirituality can check out the popular Aurobindo Ashram while nature lovers will revel in its lovely beaches.
Visiting Pondicherry is also an excellent jumping point to Auroville, a township created to symbolize human unity.
How to See Beautiful Places in India
India is a massive country y’all! Getting from point A to point B is often a multi-day journey and while flying from one state to the next can be the fastest option, it’s not necessarily the most eco-friendly option. I would personally save flying for more remote places like Ladakh.
The good news is that India has an amazing rail network with around 20,000 trains covering the country each day. Expect to spend between $0.25 and $10, depending on the type of train (express, double-decker, or sleeper), route, and compartment (air-conditioned or not). If you can splurge, you can even consider luxury trains like the Maharajah Express which costs a whopping $4,650 for a four-day trip.
India also has a great network of buses, some with sleeper compartments for longer trips. Now, if you dare brave the notorious Indian traffic, you can always consider renting a car for around $50 per day.
Final Thoughts
There you have it: all the beautiful places in India that absolutely warrants a spot on your bucket list!
Now, if you absolutely need to narrow your list down, then the Taj Mahal undoubtedly has my vote! Not only is this one of the Seven Wonders of the World but the marbled monument is soaked in romanticism and history. For a more ethereal experience, I would totally recommend that you visit it on a full moon night.
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