16 Stunning Places to Visit in North India

For most first-time travelers, India has so many interesting places to visit that it is hard to decide where to go. While the North India can basically satisfy all your needs of religious sites, outdoor sightseeing and natural scenery. Here are 16 best places to visit in North India for your reference.  

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

Located on the south bank of Yamuna River, this white marble mausoleum represents Mughal emperor’s deep love for his wife. The buildings are inlaid with numerous precious jewelry and covered with Quran. It is a top place to visit in North India.

Location: 64, Taj Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
How to Get There: It takes Rs20-30 to get to Taj Mahal by Tutu from Agra.
Travel Tips:
1. When visiting the Taj Mahal, you need to take off shoes and socks and put on shoe covers.
2. The entry fee is different in morning, noon and evening tours of Taj Mahal, with more expensive fares in the morning and dusk; tickets of Taj Mahal include other attractions like Agra Fort.
3. Taj Mahal security is very strict. In addition to the camera and money, the rest of items have to be stored.

2. Delhi – Tourist and Cultural Capital of India

This city consists of Old Delhi and New Delhi. There are lots of temples, museums and interesting bazaar for your exploring. People can visit Qutub Minar, Red Fort and other heritage sites. Tasting authentic Indian food is also important. Delhi is a great place to visit in North India.

Location: West bank if Yamuna River.
How to Get There: Indira Gandhi International Airport has many mature flight routes, connecting other main cities in the world. So you can choose an appropriate line to fly to Delhi.  
Travel Tips:
1. The best time to visit Delhi is from October to March.
2. Don’t drink water directly from tap in case of sick.

3. Ganga Aarti Ceremony at Ganges River, Varanasi

Ganga Aarti, also Ganga Puja, is a sacred Hindu ritual for prayer. At dusk, believers pour into the main pier on the banks of the Ganges River, under the leadership of chief priest, facing the Ganges and chanting on the altar.

Location: Along the Ganges River
How to Get There: Tourists can take airplane from Delhi and other big Indian cities, or fly to Delhi firstly then transfer to Varanasi. Varanasi has a complete train system that you can take trains from other city. If you are not far away from Varanasi, renting a car is also a convenient way.

4. Hawa Mahal – Palace of Wind in Jaipur

Hawa Mahal, also called Wind Palace, is an iconic landmark in Jaipur. It is a gorgeous building made of red sandstone and has many small windows. Standing at the opposite of this building can expect a perfect view of Hawa Mahal.

Location: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
How to Get There: People can fly to Jaipur Airport, which is the most convenient way. Take the bus like Volvo and deluxe buses from other cities in the Rajasthan state. You can also take the train like Shatabdi Express, which is well-connected to other big cities.
Travel Tips:
1. When Indians shake their heads, it means "yes".
2. The people of Rajasthan is usually friendly to the tourists to take pictures of them. But before filming, please ask for their permission, especially when filming women.
4. There are many locals in stations or tourism spots claiming to provide free guide or other services. Don’t be fooled.

5. Jodhpur – Blue City of India

Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. The main tourism site in the city is Mehrangarh Fort. Because most local old Town houses are painted blue on the exterior walls, Jodhpur is also known as the Blue City. It is a romantic place to visit in North India.

Location: On the western border of India, on the edge of Thar Desert.
How to Get There: The direct way is fly to Jodhpur Airport. And there are many Volvo and deluxe buses between Delhi and Jodhpur. You can also take trains from Rajasthan Sampark Kranti, Howrah Jodhpur SF Express, etc.

6. Udaipur, Rajasthan – the City of Lakes

Udaipur is the famous White City because many building are made of white marbles. It is also known as the lake and palace, called the "City of Lakes". It is recommended to visit Udaipur City Palace, Pichola Lake, Bagore Ki Haveli Museum and Jaq Mandir.

Location: It belongs to Rajasthan and is near Lake Pichola.
How to Get There: You can fly to Maharana Pratap airport from other Indian cities. If you travel from other countries, you should fly to Delhi or Mumbai firstly, then transfer to Udaipur. Also, you can find regular trains in Udaipur railwat station, which is well-connected to other cities in Rajasthan.
Travel Tip: If you come to Udaipur during January to March, you can occur to grand-national festivals like Republic Day and Holi. Respect their customs and immerse yourself in the celebration!

7. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan – the Golden City

Jaisalmer is home to Gypsy and Indian bard. This city is basically built of yellow gravel. As sun falls, all the castle looks radiant and shining, so it is called the Golden City. Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake are the must-see spots for tourists.

Location: On the edge of the Thar desert in Rajasthan
How to Get There: Taking train is a most convenient way to arrive here. Or you can fly to Jodhpur Airport firstly, then take taxi to get to Jaisalmer.

8. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

There are many Hindu and Jainism temples declared as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Khajuraho Temple group is famous for its large number of sex carvings. If you only visit the temple, one day is enough. But if you are interested in exquisite carving and pattern, you can stay longer.

Location: in Madhya Pradesh
How to Get There: You can take train or hire a tutu from near cities.

9. Amritsar, Punjab

It is holy place to visit in north India. Tourists must visit Golden Temple, the biggest monument in Sikh. Watching flag-lowering ceremony at Wagah border is also a great experience.  

Location: It is a city in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab, close to the Pakistan.
How to Get There: It is recommended to take train or hire a cab.

10. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

The main inhabitants of this region are Tibetans. Regardless of geography, ethnicity, religion are similar to Tibet culture, so it is hailed as "Little Tibet".

Location: in the mountain area of western Kashmir
How to Get There: You can fly to Lel airport, then hire a cab to get to here. Or take trains from Jammu Tawi station.
Travel Tip: Avoid car travel as much as possible to protect the terrains and environment of Ladakh.

11. Srinagar, Kashmir

People can enjoy the pleasant weather all year round and admire the breathtaking natural scenery in this place.

Location: Jammu & Kashmir
How to Get There: You can fly to Srinagar from big Indian cities like Delhi. Or you can take trains at Udhampur railway station, Jammu Tawi Railway Station to Srinagar.
Travel Tip: The best time to visit here is from April to October.

12. Gulmarg, Kashmir

It is a famous honeymoon destination and a paradise for skiing and other outdoor sports. It is a great place to visit in north India in winter and usually expects large numbers of tourists during that season.

Location: west of Kashmir
How to Get There: Getting to Srinagar firstly is a convenient way to arrive in Gulmarg.
Travel Tip: October to June is the best time to visit this place.

13. Dharamshala

It is a beautiful small town where you can explore Buddhism culture and enjoy a quiet holiday.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
How to Get There: You can fly to Gaggal airport then hire a taxi to get to Dharamshala.
Travel Tip: It is located in the territorial disputed area so you should check out the newest information about this place before you going there.

14. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh, known as the gateway to Himalaya, is a very famous yoga retreat.

Location: At entrance of Himalaya, surrounded by mountains on three sides.
How to Get There: The most convenient way is to fly to Delhi airport firstly, then take a taxi to this place.
Travel Tips: Be careful not to photograph military installations, vehicles, etc.; When traveling on the Nepal-India border, avoid entering the border bazaar between the two countries.

15. Darjeeling, West Bengal

It is famous for black tea in the world. You can have a wonderful tea gardens tour and learn how tea is processed. Puttabong (Tukvar) Tea Estate is one of the most famous attractions in Darjeeling.

Location: northern part of West Bengal
How to Get There: Firstly, you should arrive in New Jalpaiguri railway station, Bagdogra airport or Siliguri town, then you can transfer to Darjeeling by train, road or air.

16. Kolkata, West Bengal

This city owns rich history and cultural treasure and is hometown of famous Indian poet Tagore. The main attractions are Victoria Memorial, a white building in memory of Queen Victoria; In Mother Teresa’s House, you can understand story of this great lady. Rabindra Bharati Museum, Tagore’s former residence is also one of the best places to visit in north India.

Location: Ganges Delta Region, West Bengal

How to Get There: You can fly to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport from other Indian cities. Or take trains at Howrah and Sealdah, which is well-connected to lots of Indian cities.