India is a country that's both ancient and modern at the same. Every traveller should include it on their bucket list. Many dreams of travelling to Agra to see the Taj Mahal or to visit the many royal palaces scattered throughout Rajasthan. While some people are attracted to the breathtaking landscapes of Rishikesh or Darjeeling, others find their way to Goa's idyllic beaches.

India is home to three major cities: New Delhi (India), Mumbai (India), and Kolkata (India). Each city is different. The vibrant streets, markets, and temples in India's biggest urban centres are irresistible. When travelling to India, it can be hard to choose what to see.

This list contains the most popular places to visit in India. You can use this list to plan your trip, whether you're on a backpacking trip or a luxury vacation.

Agra

The majestic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is the first thing you think of when you hear the word Agra. This charming city is situated in Uttar Pradesh, on the bank's River Yamuna. It is home to many stunning Mughal architectural masterpieces, making it a popular choice for architecture and history buffs. No matter how many times you visit them, the charm of Agra's Taj Mahal or other monuments will never cease to amaze. It's also a delight to foodies and shopaholics.

Ladakh

Ladakh is a mountainous area in northern India's Kashmir region. The area is large, but it only has a small population and few nomadic residents. Nearly all tourists will spend time in Leh, which is well-known for its beautiful scenery.

It is located at an extremely high altitude and is home to the Palace of the King (17th Century). It is worth visiting the Old Town's numerous Buddhist monasteries and temples.

Varanasi

Varanasi, the ideal place to experience the essence of Hindu spirituality, is the best. The unforgettable experience of visiting the ghats in this Uttar Pradesh city and the river Ganges is unmatched.

The city is alive and well but also has a lot to do with death and resurrection. The Ganges public cremation ceremony can be seen by day and the Hindu Aarti ritual at dusk. Aarti (also known as puja) is when light is offered to Gods at various ghats.

Pushkar

Pushkar is located near the Thar Desert's edge. It is built around a lake which is divided into ghats that are of great importance to Hindu pilgrims.

The festival's most appealing feature is the fact that the two festivals are simultaneously held: the Hindu ceremonies of Kartik Purnima and the accompanying camel festival. To promote trade during religious celebrations, the festival and camel marketplace were created. You can also compete in sports matches and cultural shows. The 8-day festival is full of entertainment that you won't forget. Evenings include dance and puja performances from temples as well as aartis at Lake Michigan. To wash off their long journey to the desert, pilgrims can take a dip at the lake during the day.

Munnar

Munnar, located in Kerala's the Western Ghats, is one of the most beautiful and serene places in India. It boasts stunning natural beauty, including rolling hills, scenic valleys and virgin forests, waterfalls and streams, as well as national parks, tea and spice plantations, winding walkways and tea spice plantations. Tourists come back to Munnar for its colonial charm. British tourists loved this hill station and can be seen in many English colonial bungalows, cottages, and churches.

Mysore

The city of Mysore is located at the southern tip of India. Mysore was once the capital of the Wodeyar Dynasty. It is most well-known for its magnificent Mysore Palace. It is the epitome of opulence. A tour of the palace will reveal exquisite touches such as carved rosewood doors, ivory ceilings, and numerous paintings on the walls.

You can't miss the Devaraja Market if you're in Mysore. It's an outdoor experience along Dhanwanthri Road, where you can purchase chai tea, and then browse stalls that sell produce and sandalwood carvings.

Delhi

New Delhi, India's capital, is a popular tourist destination. It has so many things to offer, it is worth visiting more than once. There are many attractions in Delhi, including iconic Mughal monuments and temples, heritage sites as well as performing arts venues, colourful bazaars, shopping centres, planetariums, museums, restaurants, and shopping malls. Chandni Chowk is the oldest and busiest Indian market. It's located in Delhi. Many places of political significance, such as Rashtrapati Bhawan and the Parliament of India, are also found in this city.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a hill station in India that is known for its tea plantations, the views of snow-capped mountains and its monasteries. It is also home to many adventure sports like mountain biking and hiking trails. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, powered by a steam locomotive and taking two hours to reach Ghum, is a popular attraction. It is an incredibly scenic journey.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh, which is located on the banks of the Ganges River and the Himalayas foothills, is slightly off the beaten track. However, it was a very popular destination for tourists from abroad after the Beatles visited the now abandoned Maharishi Mahesh to do a yoga retreat. The city remains a favourite among yogis. Its main attractions include its temples and the two suspension bridges.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is where you can see the regality and splendour of Rajasthan. Its magnificent palaces, forts, and museums have managed to keep the Pink City's old-world charm. The Jaipur Elephant Festival is a great place to enjoy elephant dancing and elephant polo. It is known for its delicious local cuisine and rich royal history, making it one of India's top destinations in March.