Best cities to visit in India:Tranquil temple towns and vibrant modern cities, thrilling wildlife safaris and lazy backwater cruises, crumbling ancient ruins and renovated heritage palaces – the contrasts in India are countless and mind-boggling. Given its multi-faith make-up, spirituality is ubiquitous, from shrines dedicated to numerous deities to a block-a-block calendar of colorful festivals. And then there’s the food—flavors, textures and spices that seem to change every hundred miles it travels. Whether you’re indulging in elaborate platters or scarfing down street food on the spot, your taste buds are in for a treat.
The crush of humanity, noise and chaos can confuse first-time visitors (and even seasoned travelers) but if you go with the flow and embrace the uncertainty of this incredible country, you’ll Get the best from India. This is a selection of the best places to visit in India.
The magical allure of the Taj Mahal makes Agra an essential stop on India’s Golden Triangle tourist circuit. But it’s by no means the only attraction – the massive red sandstone Agra Fort and the swaying Akbar’s Tomb are both worth a visit, as is the lace market for everything from clothes and shoes to spices and marble curies. Don’t miss the city’s signature
Bangalore, Karnataka
One of the leading cities in South India, what Bangalore lacks in big-ticket attractions it makes up for with an amazing dining and shopping scene. Malls abound, as do craft breweries, restaurants and cafes, especially in cooler districts such as Indiranagar and Koramangala. The “Garden City” also has many green comforts, be it Cuban Park, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Lumbini Garden and many more.
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Best cities to visit in India
Despite its cosmopolitan garb, Chennai remains a traditional city, dotted with many rainbow-coloured temples – Kapaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, being the most famous. Swing by the Government Museum to see the magnificent collection of South Indian bronzes and then take a sunset cruise along Marina Beach, the world’s second longest urban beach; Don’t forget to sample baji (vegetable fritters) from one of the huts.
Jodhpur, Rajasthan
With its tangle of medieval streets lined with indigo houses, the “Blue City” of Jodhpur paints a beautiful picture. Add the mighty Mehrangarh fort that presides over it from a rocky hilltop and you get an idea of the former glory of the Rajputs. Don’t miss the Umaid Bhawan Palace, some luxury hotels and some museums, still occupied by the descendants of the former royal family.
Kochi, Kerala
Sitting pretty on the Malabar coast, Kochi (particularly its old town of Fort Kochi) is a wonderful mishmash of Portuguese, Dutch, British rule and indigenous influences. Stroll around and see the 450-year-old foreign synagogue, Mattancherry Palace and Instagram-worthy Chinese fishing nets. Time your visit to coincide with the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (usually December-March) to get a taste of contemporary Asian art.
Calcutta, West Bengal
Calcutta may be one of India’s leading metropolises, but it seems to be moving at a slower pace. As the former capital of British India, it retains much of its colonial-era architecture, including the Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The magnificent Howrah Bridge is a symbol of the city and its bustling markets such as the New Market and the Malik Ghat Flower Market are unparalleled.
Leh, Ladakh
With snow-capped peaks, azure lakes and colorful monasteries, Ladakh is one of the most spectacular regions in northern India. Its charming capital, Leh, is dotted with white-washed houses and stupas and dominated by the 17th-century Leh Palace. A visit to a Buddhist monastery is a must – Shey, Thikse and Hemis are the closest to Leh, and the latter host the colorful Hemis festival (usually in July).
Suggested Read: Best places to visit in Asia
Manali, Himachal Pradesh {Best places to visit in India}
Manali is a beautiful hill station in North India surrounded by forests and majestic mountains with the river Beas flowing through it. Always on the top best cities in India.Visit the 16th century Hidimba Devi Temple and then head to Mall Road to shop for local handicrafts and curiosities. Manali is also a great base for many adventure activities like trekking, rafting, paragliding and skiing.
Mumbai, Maharashtra
The most cosmopolitan city of India, Mumbai is home to heritage architecture such as Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Banganga, Khotachiwadi and others. Most of the action revolves around the cultural and arts precinct of Kala Ghoda and the cool neighborhood of Bandra, with its trendy bars and restaurants.
