• Eleco
• Oct. 17, 2024

Whether you love history, nature, or adventure, India has something special for everyone. When it comes to travel, India is often overlooked and doesn’t get enough credit as a great holiday destination. It is almost 2025 and now it is the perfect time to refresh your travel plans and get ready for the exciting holidays ahead. We have put together a list of top places to visit in India that should be on your travel list. From Kerala’s peaceful backwaters to Rajasthan’s colorful streets and Ladakh’s stunning landscapes, India is full of amazing places waiting to be explored.
 

The List of Holiday Destinations to Visit in India

1. Leh
2. Srinagar
3. Havelock Island
4. Pondicherry
5. Goa
6. Amritsar
7. Ooty
8. Munnar
9. Coorg
10. Ujjain
11. Rameshwaram
12. Auli
13. Lakshadweep
14. Varanasi
15. Meghalaya    
16. Jaisalmer
17. Zanskar
18. Darjeeling
19. Rishikesh
20. Khajjiar
     

1. Leh (Ladakh)

Leh, located in the northern region of India, is a must-visit for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its high-altitude desert, Buddhist monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, Leh offers a unique experience unlike any other in India.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Highlights: Leh is renowned for the stunning Pangong Lake, the serene Nubra Valley, and the majestic Leh Palace. Adventure seekers can indulge in trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting. The peaceful atmosphere of Thiksey Monastery and Shanti Stupa are perfect for spiritual seekers.
   

2. Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is often referred to as ‘Paradise on Earth.’ It is famous for its beautiful lakes, houseboats, and lush gardens, making it an idyllic destination for nature lovers.

• Best Time to Visit: April to October
• Highlights: Dal Lake, with its traditional houseboats and Shikara rides, is the heart of Srinagar. The Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, and the vibrant Tulip Garden during springtime add to the city's charm. In winter, the nearby Gulmarg becomes a hotspot for skiing.
   

3. Havelock Island (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)

Havelock Island is a tropical paradise in the Andaman & Nicobar archipelago. It’s known for its unspoiled beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a haven for beach lovers and divers.

• Best Time to Visit: November to May
• Highlights: Relax on the pristine Radhanagar Beach, often listed as one of Asia’s best beaches. Snorkeling and scuba diving around the coral reefs near Elephant Beach and Kalapathar Beach offer a chance to explore the island’s rich marine life.
   

4. Pondicherry

Pondicherry, or Puducherry, offers a charming mix of French colonial architecture and Indian culture. This peaceful coastal town is perfect for a relaxing getaway by the sea.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: Wander through the French Quarter, visit the serene Auroville, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance at Promenade Beach. The colorful streets, French cafés, and peaceful beaches make Pondicherry a unique destination for relaxation and meditation.
   

5. Goa

Goa is India’s ultimate beach destination, famous for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage. It’s a paradise for beach lovers, partygoers, and history enthusiasts alike.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Highlights: Relax on beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna, explore the churches of Old Goa, and enjoy thrilling water sports. The lively markets, such as the Anjuna Flea Market, and Goa’s rich culinary scene make it a vibrant holiday spot.
   

6. Amritsar (Punjab)

Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural hub of the Sikh religion, is home to the Golden Temple, one of the most visited and revered temples in the world.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Highlights: Visit the magnificent Golden Temple for a spiritual experience and the Langar (community kitchen). Other highlights include the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial for India’s freedom struggle, and the lively Wagah Border Ceremony showcasing the border security forces of India and Pakistan.
   

7. Ooty (Tamil Nadu)

Ooty, also known as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a serene escape nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. It’s famous for its cool weather, tea gardens, and stunning landscapes.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
• Highlights: Enjoy the scenic views from the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll around Ooty Lake, explore the Botanical Gardens, and visit the famous Doddabetta Peak for panoramic views of the Nilgiris.
   

8. Munnar (Kerala)

Munnar, a charming hill station in Kerala, is known for its sprawling tea gardens and lush green landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and honeymooners.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Highlights: Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy the beauty of Mattupetty Dam. Take a stroll through the scenic tea estates and visit the Tea Museum to learn about Munnar’s rich tea heritage.
   

9. Coorg (Karnataka)

Coorg, or Kodagu, is known for its coffee plantations, rolling hills, and misty landscapes. It is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: Explore the stunning Abbey Falls, walk through the lush coffee estates, and visit the Namdroling Monastery for a glimpse into Tibetan culture. The pleasant climate and scenic beauty make Coorg an ideal destination for trekking and nature walks.
   

10. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)

Ujjain, one of the holiest cities in India, is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus. It’s famous for its ancient temples and is one of the sites for the Kumbh Mela.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: The Mahakaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the most famous landmark in Ujjain. Other must-visit spots include the Ram Ghat on the banks of the Shipra River, Kal Bhairav Temple, and Harsiddhi Temple.
   

11. Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu)

Rameshwaram, a sacred town in Tamil Nadu, is one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations for Hindus and forms a part of the Char Dham Yatra.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Highlights: Visit the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, known for its impressive architecture and long corridor of pillars. Explore the Pamban Bridge and the ghost town of Dhanushkodi. Rameshwaram’s spiritual atmosphere draws devotees from all over the country.
   

12. Auli (Uttarakhand)

Auli is India’s premier ski destination, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and pristine snow-covered slopes.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March (for skiing) and May to November (for trekking)
• Highlights: Auli is best known for its skiing opportunities, especially during the winter months. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat. In summer, it’s a popular spot for trekking and hiking.
   

13. Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is a group of islands known for its untouched beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. It’s the perfect destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Highlights: Lakshadweep’s clear blue lagoons are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Agatti Island and Kadmat Island are popular spots for water sports. The coral reefs and serene beaches make Lakshadweep a hidden gem in India.
   

14. Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)

Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, is a spiritual and cultural hub. It is often called the city of temples and is located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a mesmerizing spiritual experience. A boat ride along the Ganges offers a glimpse into the city’s rich spiritual traditions. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and explore the narrow streets of the old city.
   

15. Meghalaya

Meghalaya, meaning the “Abode of Clouds,” is a beautiful northeastern state known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and living root bridges.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Highlights: Visit the stunning Nohkalikai Falls, Living Root Bridges in Cherrapunji, and the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong. Shillong, the capital, is a charming hill station known for its pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
   

16. Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)

Jaisalmer, known as the "Golden City," is famous for its magnificent Jaisalmer Fort and vast Thar Desert. It is a city rich in history and culture.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: Explore the golden Jaisalmer Fort, the intricate Patwon Ki Haveli, and take a camel safari in the Thar Desert. Sam Sand Dunes offer an unforgettable experience with desert camping and cultural performances under the stars.
   

17. Zanskar (Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir)

Zanskar is a remote valley located in the Union Territory of Ladakh. It is famous for its untouched beauty, snow-capped peaks, and thrilling trekking opportunities, attracting adventurers from across the globe.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September (For trekking) and January to February (For Chadar Trek)
• Highlights: Chadar Trek is one of the most thrilling winter treks in the world, where you walk on the frozen Zanskar River. The Phugtal Monastery, a cliffside monastery that seems to emerge from the mountains, offers a tranquil escape and insight into Buddhist culture. Another highlight is the Zongkhul Monastery, famous for its cave-like structure and ancient murals, providing a spiritual and historical perspective on the region.
   

18. Darjeeling (West Bengal)

Darjeeling, located in the Eastern Himalayas, is famous for its tea gardens, stunning views of the Kanchenjunga, and charming colonial-era architecture. It is a popular hill station for both adventure and relaxation.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
• Highlights: Tiger Hill is the go-to spot for witnessing mesmerizing sunrises over the snow-capped Himalayas. For history and nature lovers, the Batasia Loop offers beautiful panoramic views along with a peaceful war memorial, while the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park provides a chance to see endangered species like red pandas and snow leopards.
   

19. Rishikesh (Uttarakhand)

Rishikesh, located along the banks of the holy Ganges River, is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” It’s a spiritual town that attracts yoga enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and pilgrims alike.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Highlights: It is famous for its two suspension bridges, Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, which offer great views of the river and nearby temples. At Triveni Ghat, you can experience the beautiful Ganga Aarti every evening, a ritual that attracts both locals and visitors. For adventure lovers, white-water rafting on the Ganges is an exciting activity. You can also visit the peaceful Neer Garh Waterfall and explore the unique Beatles Ashram, which adds a quirky charm to the town. 
   

20. Khajjiar (Himachal Pradesh)

Khajjiar, often called the "Mini Switzerland of India," is a beautiful hill station located in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and a lush green meadow, Khajjiar is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
• Highlights: Khajjiar’s main attraction is its wide meadow, which resembles a small plateau, surrounded by forests of cedar trees and offering stunning views of the Dhauladhar Mountains. The serene Khajjiar Lake at the center of the meadow is ideal for boating and picnics. You can also visit the ancient Khajji Nag Temple, dedicated to the serpent god, which is known for its beautiful wooden carvings. Adventure seekers can enjoy activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding around the meadow, while nearby spots like Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary offer opportunities for nature walks and spotting wildlife like Himalayan black bears.

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