India is a country of diverse culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich history that dates back thousands of years. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the sun-soaked beaches of Goa, India is a treasure trove of natural wonders and architectural marvels that are sure to take your breath away.
In this article, we have curated a list of the top 20 tourist attractions in India that every traveler should add to their bucket list. These attractions are spread across different regions of the country and offer unique experiences that are bound to leave a lasting impression on you. So, pack your bags and join us on a journey through the most beautiful and fascinating destinations that India has to offer.
Table Of Contents
Tourist Attractions in North India
1. Taj Mahal, Agra
2. Golden Temple, Amritsar
3. Red Fort, Delhi
4. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Tourist Attractions in South India
6. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
7. Char minar, Hyderabad
8. Hampi, Karnataka
9. Kerala Backwaters, Kerala
10. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Tourist Attractions in East India
11. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, West Bengal
12. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
13. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
14. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
15. Sunderbans, West Bengal
Tourist Attractions in West India
16. Gateway of India, Mumbai
17. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
18. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
19. Amer Fort, Rajasthan
20. Goa Beaches, Goa
Conclusion
North India
1. Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous and recognizable buildings in the world. It was built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture, and is made entirely of white marble. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and intricate interiors of the Taj Mahal, and learn about its fascinating history.
Best Time To Visit Taj Mahal
The best time to visit is between November and February. These are the winter months, with daytime temperatures usually below 25°C. The Taj Mahal looks stunning against a clear blue winter sky, and it’s also the time of year when Agra’s heat and dust are at their lowest.
2. Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple is the most sacred site of the Sikh religion, and one of the most beautiful temples in India. Its striking golden facade is reflected in the surrounding pool of water, creating a stunning visual effect. Visitors can explore the temple’s ornate interior, and learn about the history and traditions of the Sikh religion.
Best Time To Visit Golden Temple
The temple is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit Amritsar is from October to March when temperatures are cooler. However, visiting during November can also offer a chance to experience the Sikh festival of Guru Nanak Jayanti.
3. Red Fort, Delhi
The Red Fort is a sprawling complex of palaces and gardens that served as the residence of Mughal emperors for over 200 years. Visitors can explore the beautiful buildings and gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of the Mughal empire.
Best Time To Visit Red Fort
The cooler months from October to March are the best times to visit. Delhi’s summer heat can be intense, and the monsoon season (June to September) can cause heavy rain.
4. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
The Hawa Mahal is a beautiful palace in the heart of Jaipur, known for its intricate facade of red and pink sandstone. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, and was designed to allow the royal ladies to watch the street life without being seen by the public. Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms and balconies, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top.
Best Time To Visit Hawa Mahal
Visit between October and March, when the weather is cooler. Jaipur, located in the desert state of Rajasthan, can get extremely hot in the summer.
5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is a beautiful city located on the banks of the Ganges river, known for its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty. It is often called the “Yoga Capital of the World,” and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to take part in yoga and meditation classes. Rishikesh is also a gateway to the Himalayas, and is the starting point for many treks in the region.
Best Time To Visit Rishikesh
Visit between February to early May when the weather is pleasant and perfect for activities like yoga and rafting. For rafting, however, monsoon season from June to September is considered best.
Related Read: 10 Best Hill Stations in North India to Escape the City Life
South India
6. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
The Meenakshi Temple is a stunning temple complex in the city of Madurai, known for its intricate architecture and beautiful carvings. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Meenakshi, and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in South India. Visitors can explore the many shrines and halls of the temple, and learn about the fascinating history and traditions of Hinduism.
Best Time To Visit Meenakshi Temple
The cool, dry season from December to February is best. The temple also hosts the annual Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival in April, which is worth seeing.
7. Char Minar, Hyderabad
The Charminar is a beautiful monument in the heart of Hyderabad, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. It was built in 1591 by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah to commemorate the end of a deadly epidemic in the city. Visitors can explore the surrounding bazaars and markets, and learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Best Time To Visit Char Minar
Late October to March is ideal because these months are cooler. Hyderabad can get quite hot during summer, and the monsoon season can lead to heavy rains.
8. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is a beautiful ancient city located in the southern state of Karnataka, known for its stunning ruins and historical significance. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, and was one of the richest and most powerful cities in the world in the 16th century. Visitors can explore the many temples and palaces of the city, and marvel at the intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
Best Time To Visit Hampi
The winter months from November to February are the most comfortable for exploring Hampi’s outdoor ruins because the temperatures are cooler.
9. Kerala Backwaters, Kerala
The Kerala Backwaters are a network of interconnected canals and lagoons that run parallel to the Arabian Sea in the state of Kerala. They are a unique and beautiful ecosystem, and are home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride through the backwaters, enjoying the beautiful scenery and observing the traditional way of life of the locals.
Best Time To Visit Kerala Backwaters
The cool and dry season from December to February is best. You can also visit during the monsoon season (June to August) for Ayurvedic treatments.
10. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Mahabalipuram is a beautiful coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu, known for its stunning rock-cut temples and beautiful beaches. It was once a thriving port city, and was an important center of trade and commerce in ancient times. Visitors can explore the many temples and monuments of the town, and relax on the beautiful beaches.
Best Time To Visit Mahabalipuram
Visit during the winter months, November to February, when temperatures are milder.
East-India
11. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, West Bengal
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” is a beautiful narrow-gauge railway that runs through the picturesque hills of Darjeeling. It was built in the late 19th century, and is one of the few remaining steam-powered trains in the world. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride on the train, taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Best Time To Visit Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The best time to visit Darjeeling is from October to March when the skies are clear for an unhindered view of the Kanchenjunga range. The toy train ride is especially scenic during these months.
12. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
The Konark Sun Temple is a beautiful temple complex located in the state of Odisha, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. It was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I, and is dedicated to the Hindu god Surya. The temple is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
Best Time To Visit Konark Sun Temple
Visit between October and March when the weather is cool and dry. The annual Konark Dance Festival in December is a great time to explore the temple and enjoy traditional Indian dance performances.
13. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Assam, known for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. It is also home to a wide variety of other animals, including tigers, elephants, and wild water buffalo. Visitors can take a jeep or elephant safari through the park, observing the many species of animals and birds that call the park home.
Best Time To Visit Kaziranga National Park
The best time to visit is from November to April. The park remains closed from June to October due to monsoons and potential flooding.
Related Read: 10 Best Jungle Safaris in India for Wildlife Enthusiasts
14. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
The Victoria Memorial is a beautiful monument in the heart of Kolkata, dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria. It was designed by William Emerson, and was completed in 1921. The monument is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains, and visitors can explore the many galleries and exhibits inside the building, which showcase the history and culture of Kolkata.
Best Time To Visit Victoria Memorial
The months between November and February are ideal to visit Kolkata as the weather is cool and dry. This is also the time when the city hosts many cultural events.
15. Sunderbans, West Bengal
The Sunderbans are a beautiful mangrove forest located in the delta region of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is one of the largest mangrove forests in the world, and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including the endangered Bengal tiger. Visitors can take a boat ride through the forest, observing the many species of animals and birds that call the Sunderbans home.
Best Time To Visit Sunderbans
The winter months from December to February are ideal for visiting the Sunderbans, when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife, especially the Bengal Tiger, are higher.
Related Read: Top 10 Wildlife Safari Destinations In India For Thrilling Adventures
West India
16. Gateway of India, Mumbai
The Gateway of India is a beautiful monument located in the heart of Mumbai, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It was built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India, and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mumbai. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the sea and explore the many nearby shops and restaurants.
Best Time To Visit Gateway of India
The best time to visit Mumbai is during the cooler, drier months from November to February. However, Mumbai’s coastal location makes it pleasant most of the year.
17. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a stunning complex of rock-cut temples and monasteries, located in the state of Maharashtra. The caves date back to the 2nd century BC, and are famous for their intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes. Visitors can explore the many caves and marvel at the intricate carvings and paintings that adorn them.
Best Time To Visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves
The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to March. This period avoids the intense heat of summer and the heavy rain of the monsoon season.
Related Read: Top 10 Hill Stations in Maharashtra to Visit in Winter Season
18. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
The Rann of Kutch is a beautiful desert located in the state of Gujarat, known for its stark beauty and rich culture. It is home to many traditional villages and towns, where visitors can learn about the traditional way of life of the locals. The region is also famous for its colorful handicrafts and textiles.
Best Time To Visit Rann of Kutch
The winter months from November to February are best for visiting, with temperatures being cooler. The Rann Utsav festival also takes place during these months, offering a unique cultural experience.
19. Amer Fort, Rajasthan
The Amer Fort is a beautiful palace located on a hill overlooking the city of Jaipur. It was built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, and is a stunning example of Rajput architecture. Visitors can explore the many rooms and courtyards of the palace, and enjoy the stunning views of the city below.
Best Time To Visit Amer Fort
Visit Amer Fort between November and February, when the weather is cooler. In the summer, Rajasthan can be extremely hot, making sightseeing uncomfortable.
20. Goa Beaches, Goa
Goa is a beautiful coastal state known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can relax on the beautiful beaches, enjoy water sports, and explore the many restaurants and bars of the region. Goa is also home to many beautiful churches and temples, which reflect the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Best Time To Visit Goa Beaches
The best time to visit Goa is from November to March, when the weather is dry and relatively cool. December is especially lively because of the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Related Read: Top 10 most beautiful beaches in India for a Dream Vacation
Conclusion
India is a country of incredible diversity and beauty, offering a wealth of top tourist attractions for travelers to explore. From the iconic Taj Mahal to the serene backwaters of Kerala, the historic Red Fort in Delhi to the stunning Golden Temple in Amritsar, there is no shortage of amazing destinations to visit in India. Whether you’re seeking ancient history, natural beauty, spiritual experiences, or just a relaxing beach vacation, India has it all.
We hope this guide to the 20 top tourist attractions in India has inspired you to start planning your own adventure to this incredible country. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime.