India is one of the most beautiful countries among the nations of Southeast Asia. Not only is the country diverse in races, culture, languages and customs, but the surprising geographical diversity that the country presents also makes it a paradise for travelers. From majestic hills and snow-capped mountains to sandy deserts and sunny beaches, India has everything that makes it an excellent destination for tourists from all over the world.

If you travel to the country, there are many places to visit in India, without which the trip will be incomplete. However, with so many places to see in India, it can be overwhelming for a tourist for the first time. So here we are to help you travel to India for the first time by listing the top ten destinations in the country.

Delhi

The nation’s capital and a metropolitan city, Delhi, is a great place to start your trip. The old-world charm of this city can be known by the monuments and buildings of the Mughal era. It is also one of the destinations that are part of the “golden triangle tour”, the other two places are Agra in Uttar Pradesh and Jaipur in Rajasthan. You can book luxury trains for this tour that will allow you to explore all three places in all their splendor.

The main attractions in Delhi are the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, the President’s House or Rashtrapati Bhavan, Jama Masjid, the Lotus Temple and the Gate of India. The city is also a great place to buy souvenirs.

Agra

Among all the attractions of India, Agra is known in the world for the magnificent architectural marvel called Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Experience the fascinating beauty of the Taj Mahal on a full moon night when the moonlight is reflected in its white marble body.

In addition, you can visit other places in the city such as Fatehpur Sikri, the Agra Fort, the Itimad-ud-daula Tomb, the Akbar Tomb, the Taj Museum, etc. Agra is quite close to Delhi and is well connected by road.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the place of residence of royalty is one of the places you must visit in India for the first time as a tourist. Rajasthan tourism is made up of all the best places in the princely state that can make a complete individual tour! However, if you want to visit the key places in the majestic state, you can visit ancient fortresses and palaces in the capital city of Jaipur, also called “Pink City” and enjoy camel rides in the Thar desert in the “Golden City ” ‘Jaisalmer.

The best places in Jaipur are Amber Fort and Palace, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Alberts Hall Museum, etc. In Jaisalmer, apart from the sand dunes and Jaisalmer Fort, you can visit the temples and the Gadsisar lake and enjoy your stay at the heritage hotels.

Mumbai

Mumbai, the financial capital of India and the heart of Bollywood is one of the biggest attractions in India. The lively city by the Arabian Sea has a lively and busy lifestyle.

When you are in Mumbai, you can enjoy a walk along Juhu Beach or the most popular Marine Drive or visit the Gateway of India, the monument that marks the entry point to the country through the Arabian Sea. You can visit some famous mosques and temples such as the Siddhi Vinayak Temple and Haji Ali Dargah and take a tour of the Elephant caves. This city is also famous for delicious street food.

Goa

Of all the places to see in India, Goa is the most modern and fun destination, especially for international travelers. Inhabited mostly by deceased Portuguese, it is the party destination of the country. The sunny beaches of Goa offer many activities that include water sports such as scuba diving, rafting, snorkeling, etc., in addition to the magnificent views of sunrise and sunsets. There are bars, clubs and casinos to keep you busy all night and the restaurants serve excellent seafood. In addition, the picturesque churches around the city also offer a great experience.

The best places in Goa are Calangute beach, Baga beach, Candolim beach, Pandava caves, Dudhsagar falls, Bom Jesus basilica, etc.

Kerala

Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in India and has been nicknamed “Country of God”, as there are several temples dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. The backwaters of Kerala make this state of southern India a coveted destination for travelers.

Calcutta

Calcutta, the “City of Joy” is the cultural capital of India and is one of the best places to visit in India. Calcutta has successfully preserved its heritage and Victorian architectures can be seen throughout the busy metropolitan city. Calcutta was also home to some of the best Indian personalities and Nobel Prize winners such as Satyajit Ray, Rabindranath Tagore, C.V Raman, Amartya Sen and Mother Teresa.

You can enjoy tours to some of the popular places like the Victoria Monument, Shahid Minar, the Indian Museum, Fort William, the Howrah Bridge, the St. Pauls Cathedral Church, Belur Math, the City of Science, the Marble Palace, etc. Also, do not forget to enjoy the sweet delicacies offered by the city.

Varanasi

Varanasi is called “Temple City” and is known as a Hindu pilgrimage site. It is one of the places you should visit in India for a truly spiritual experience. The city is located on the banks of the Ganga River and is famous for the Kashi Vishwanath temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. A dip in the sacred river is considered a penance for all the sins of the Hindus. The most popular places include Dasaswamedha Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Sarnath Temple, Panch Ganga Ghat and many others.

Khajuraho

Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh is an important historical place due to the well-preserved Hindu temples and its exotic architecture. Some of the best places to visit are Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Lakshmana Temple, Matangeshwar Temple, Adinath Temple, Javari Temple, Panna National Park, Raneh Falls, Ken Gharial Shrine, Beni Sagar Dam, Museum Jain, etc. Some of the temples present light and sound show as well.

Rishikesh

It is known as the birthplace of Yoga, the phenomenon that has captured the attention of people’s imagination throughout the world. Rishikesh is Uttarakhand is the center of Yoga and meditation in India.

Rishikesh is often referred to as the capital of the yoga world due to its global popularity among the seekers of peace and contemplation. It is believed that meditation and immersion in the holy water of the Ganges River in Rishikesh bring one closer to the achievement of salvation.

Conclusion

India is a culturally rich place that has preserved its heritage quite well. Before visiting India, you should get the best travel advice from different sources to know the “What to do and what not to do” so that your stay in the country has a pleasant and uncomplicated trip. So, travel to India during your next vacation and enjoy an amazing trip to this beautiful and mystical paradise.