Best Holiday Destination in India: Top 10

As one of the oldest ancient civilizations, India has splendid history and amazing tourism spots. People can not only appreciate cultural highlights but also admire the various natural beauty. There are 10 best holiday destinations in India.

1. Agra

Located on the West Bank of Yamuna River, Agra forms a triangle with Delhi and Jaipur, which is known as the "Golden Triangle". The city is famous for its Taj Mahal, and every year a large number of tourists come from all over the world to see it. Agra has been the capital of the Mughal dynasty since 1526, so many beautiful buildings have been left behind. It is a top holiday destination in India.

Major Attractions: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh, Tomb of Ltimad-ud-Daulah
Best Things to Do: Wake up early in the morning to avoid tourists to Fort Agra admiring the sunrise or go to Taj Mahal; go to the local famous market Sadar Bazaar to buy Goods; taste local authentic vegetarian food in Agra Shankara Vegis Restaurant
Best Time to Visit: October to March

2. Goa

As Portugal's former colony in the British Indian Ocean, Goa has a strong Latin style. The gorgeous and fancy temples that are common in Indian mainland, are all replaced by whitewashed churches and dilapidated Portuguese villas. Whether it is religious belief, or folk customs, Goa has its own unique style. It is a dreamy holiday destination in India for people who expect few crowds.

Highlights: Grand Island, Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Mhadei River
Best Things to Do: various water spots include diving and snorkeling; engage in parasailing, hiking or fishing; white water rafting
Best Time to Visit: November to February

3. New Delhi

As the capital and center of politics and culture of India, people can both appreciate cultural relics and modern art buildings. It is also an essential stop in “Golden Triangle” circuit, a famous holiday destination in India.

Major Attractions: Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, Jama Masjid
Best Things to Do: Visit religious sites or national museums; taste traditional north food
Best Time to Visit: October to March

4. Jaipur

It is also hailed as the pink city because of many pink buildings. Jaipur is an important city in the “Golden Triangle”. People can visit many historical spots and interesting places in here.

Major Attractions: Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum
Best Things to Do: Visit riyal life in City Palace; ride elephants at Amber Fort; go shopping in the city
Best Time to Visit: October to March

5. Mumbai

It is India's largest seaport and important transport hub, known as India's "Western Gateway." As one of the most prosperous city in India, it also has the Asia’s largest slum where you can experience the huge gap between rich and poor. You will find it is an unforgettable holiday destination in India.

Major Attractions: Gateway of India, Chhatrapati-Shivaji Terminus, Dhobi Ghat, Dharavi Slum, Prince Wales Museum
Best Things to Do: Visit University of Mumbai; appreciate the World Heritage Site like Ajanta Caves; see the authentic Indian movie and visit Film City Mumbai
Best Time to Visit: October to March

6. Kashmir

This beautiful city known as “Oriental Switzerland” with charming lakes, snow-peaked mountains and rich biodiversity. Most people choose Srinagar as the must-see place, which is the capital of Kashmir and famous summer resort. It is the top holiday destination in India for outdoor enthusiasts.  

Highlights: Beautiful gardens and lake scenery, historical mosques
Best Things to Do: Boat on the Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake; wake up early and see the morning floating market; buy some traditional local handicrafts
Best Time to Visit: October to March

7. Varanasi

It is a holy place for Hindus and Buddhists. There are numerous temples and religious sites in this city and Ganges River is a must-see spot for tourists all over the world. It is a must-see holiday destination in India for foreigners.

Major Attractions: Ganges River, Sarnath, Dasashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat
Best Things to Do: Boat on the Ganges River; visit Banaras Hindu University; watch the grand puja activity in the evening around Ganges River
Best Time to Visit: October to March

8. Darjeeling

Located in northeastern India, Darjeeling is a small mountain city close to Himalaya. In the British colonial era, it was an Englishman's favorite summer resort in India, famous for its Darjeeling black tea and Himalaya railway. Puttabong Tea Estate is the first tea estate of Darjeeling tea plantation. It is a breathtaking holiday destination in India.

Major Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda, Ghoom Monastery, Rock Garden, Himalayan Railway Station, Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center
Best Things to Do: Have a ride in the Himalayan Mountain Railway Toy Train; visit the local tea gardens and understand tea culture; appreciate Buddhist temples
Best Time to Visit: October to March  

9. Shimla

It is a hill city and a famous summer resort. Its natural beauty attracts tourists all year round.

Major Attractions: Lakkar Bazar, open-air ice skating rink, Kali Bari Temple, Tattapani, The Mall Road, Chadwick Waterfall, Jakhu Temple, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies.
Best Things to Do: You can go trekking and rafting in summer and have some snow activities in winter; enjoy a toy train ride; camping in the hills
Best Time to Visit: December to February

10. Havelock Island

It is a popular island in India’s Andaman Islands and famous for pristine beaches and beautiful natural scenery.

Highlights: Vijaynagar Beach, Radhanagar Beach
Best Things to Do: It is an ideal place for honeymoon; go hiking and camping in jungle; doing nothing in the luxury resort.   
Best Time to Visit: Mid-January to mid-May