India is one of the most gorgeous countries to visit. For their first trip most travelers prefer to travel the north part of the country which encompasses some famous cities like Delhi, Jaipur and other cultural cities like Agra and Varanasi. This article lists the top 20 places to visit in North India with cosmopolitan cities, Himalayan estates and some holi towns.
Looking for the Ultimate Guide to Plan your India trip? Checkout – Ultimate Step by Step to Plan Your Trip to India.
1. New Delhi
The capital of India is one of the first destinations people travel to in India and one of the best places to visit in North India. It is a city filled with cultural monuments and cosmopolitan attractions. The Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and Chandni Chowk are all part of Delhi’s history. Chandni Chowk in particular is quintessentially Indian with cows, people and rickshaws all occupying the same roads and the smell of the largest spice market in Asia hanging in the air. One of the lesser known aspects of the city is found in its restaurants where you can taste food from the furthest corners of the country from Kerala to the Himalayas.
Looking for the best places to visit in New Delhi? Checkout – Top 10 Places to Visit in New Delhi from a Local.
2. Agra
Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, this city welcomes millions of visitors every year to witness this architectural miracle. Top of the list of best places to visit in North India, Agra boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites and every nook and corner is filled with street food, lush gardens and architecture built by the Mughal kings of India. The ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri with gorgeous Indo-Islamic architecture is located just outside of the city. This is a dream come true for history aficionados.
3. Varanasi
My favorite city in India, Varanasi is known as the Holi City of India and the one place I recommend every traveler go to. The city is said to have been founded by a disciple of Shiva, the god of destruction and it is considered a sacred experience to visit here. Some of the most memorable experiences in Varanasi are the sunrise boat ride over the Ganga, witnessing the ghats where Hindus come to wash off their sins and the momentous Ganga Aarti every night. The city in my expert opinion serves the best street food in all of India on Dashashwamedh Road attested by the throngs of crowd that descend here every evening.
4. Amritsar
This charming city sits on the border between India and Pakistan and is one of the best places to visit in North India. The city is famous for the Golden Temple which is the holiest site for the Sikh community in India and the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial for those who died here during the fight for India’s independence. A few kilometres from the city at the Wagah Border, Indian and Pakistani soldiers host an elaborate ceremony to bring down the flag every evening which is visited by thousands of people. In addition the markets in Amritsar are spectacular and the jooti market especially stole my heart with its unending variety of bright jootis to choose between.
5. Gulmarg
The snow capped mountains, glistening blue lakes, lush rolling greenery interspersed with traditional wooden homes and the crisp chilly air is akin to heaven. The Kashmir valley is one of the most gorgeous places on Earth and one of my top recommended places to visit in North India. Visitors come here to stay on the floating lake houses on Dal Lake, eat succulent fruits and trek the surrounding mountain range. Whether you want to cuddle up with a book in front of the fireplace or go kayaking in the Lidder River, the valley blows new life into your heart. The capital, Srinagar has bustling local markets and handicraft that you should check out.
6. Leh-Ladakh
The Ladakh Plateau in the upper Himalayan region is characterized by strong Buddhist culture. The plateau is a desert rich with cultural and challenging experiences. Trekkers come here for the incredible hikes and Ladakh is a famous driving destination for bikers and drivers that are looking for a challenge. Khardung La is the highest drivable pass in the world that connects the region to the Nubra Valley sand dunes. The best way to experience this incredible landscape is to drive through the region in a jeep and see the pristine blue lakes, views of the Karakoram mountains to the north and stay at the Buddhist monasteries along the way. This is one of the top places to visit in North India if you are an adventurist.
7. Rishikesh
If yoga on the hillside and spending time to find yourself at an Indian ashram is more your style then you will find yourself in the city of Rishikesh in the Himalayas. Ganga flows next to the city through the Garhwal Mountains where sports enthusiasts come every year for river rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking and bungee jumping. The other side of the city encompasses the spiritual seekers that come here for yoga and to rejuvenate their bodies. At Haridwar a few kilometres down, devotees come all year round for religious celebrations and to immerse themselves in prayer.
8. Kumaon Valley
The Kumaon region is dotted by small towns across its rolling lush mountains. Ranikhet and Sitlakhet are my favorite cities with treks through the cedar and pine trees and rhododendron bushes at every corner. Make sure you try the Buransh which is the juice of the rhododendron flower that is famous in the region. In Ranikhet, Rani Jheel, Chaubatia Garden and Tarikhet Village are a few locations with scenic walks you can take at any time. I recommend at least three days at any one of these locations to really enjoy nature and all the beautiful treks this area has to offer. This is really one of the places to visit in North India if you are looking to relax amidst the mountains.
9. Jim Corbett National Park
This tiger reserve in India is the oldest national park and boasts an incredible variety of flora and fauna ranging from the Bengal tiger, leopards, wild elephants to more than 650 species of birds. The jeep safaris during the morning and evening hours are an unforgettable experience especially if you catch a sight of the magnificent Bengal Tiger. The area around the park has some magnificent lodges for the guests with great luxury and food. Corbett is also the only national park that offers overnight stays in the middle of the forest at the Dhinkala Lodge that is sought after hungrily by all travelers. If you are looking for tiger and love wildlife then this is one of the best places to visit in North India.
10. Binsar
I have traveled to this region in the Himalayas almost every summer to escape the heat. The Mary Budden Estate is a gorgeous restored heritage homestay in the middle of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and one of my personal favorite places to visit in North India. Their rooms are incredibly cosy and bright and I was introduced to Rumi by one of their bedside books. You can spend your days eating delicious food and then taking a trek in the crisp morning air in the sanctuary. The afternoons can be spent playing badminton, reading a book before high tea with delicious cake is provided in the garden. We ended our evenings by huddling around the bonfire or playing board games with my family. It was one of my most memorable trips ever.
Checkout the gorgeous Mary Budden Estate inside the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
11. Khajuraho
The erotic art of Khajuraho’s temples make up some of the finest temple art in the world. These temples are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites due to the stunning and detailed structures that have been carved on the walls of these temples from the Chandela Dynasty. The best way to explore the town is by renting a bike and visiting the temples spread around town one by one. This town is a staple for every traveler who really wants to immerse themselves in the culture and has quickly established itself as one of the best places to visit in North India.
12. Udaipur
This city in the southern part of Rajasthan is also known as the City of Lakes because of the many man made lakes that dot the city. The City Palace is the main point of attraction for the city. The massive white facade rises up against Lake Pichola and looks gorgeous at night time. Udaipur is a small city that is best seen on foot and all attractions are situated close together. Saheliyon ki Bari, Jagdish Mandir and Bada Bazaar are the main points of attractions. The one thing not to forget here are the saree shopping and silver jewellery which the city is famous for. This is one of the most frequented places to visit in North India during monsoon when all the lakes fill up.
13. Jaisalmer
Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is famous for its glorious Rajwada fort rising up amidst the sand dunes and the beautiful havelis that you can spot inside the fort ramparts. The architecture is made from yellow sandstone which shines golden in the setting sun hence giving the city its name. The vibrant markets sell everything to tickle a traveler’s fancy and temples swamped by devotees are another point of attraction for travelers. The city is set in the middle of the desert and exudes charm and magic through its walls in abundance.
14. Jodhpur
Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan though it has managed to escape the commercialization and oozes old world charm. Mehrangarh Fort is the main point of attraction for the city. The area just below Mehrangarh’s base is a collection of bright blue houses that signifies that Brahmins used to live in these houses. The area around the Ghanta Ghar is famous for its markets and variety of amazing street food that they offer. Outside the city, the famous Jaswant Thada is the cenotaph built for Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Jodhpur is one of the most awesome places to visit in North India if you are a curious traveler looking to explore.
15. Jaipur
The Pink City of India, Jaipur is a city booming with gorgeous architecture and the most amazing Instagrammable places in India and one of the best places to visit in North India. The City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Amber fort exemplify the glorious vision of the Rajput rulers and their expertise in creating amazing architecture. The city is also famous for its mouth watering street food. Laxmi Misthan Bhandar and Bar Palladio are two establishments where you can taste the delicious cuisine this region has to offer. I have been to Jaipur over 30 times in the last 10 years and my love for the city continues to grow every time. If you are a connoisseur of royal stays then you will find no better place than Rambagh Palace where queen Victoria herself stayed during her visit to India.
Looking for the top things to do in Jaipur? Checkout – INSIDER’S GUIDE to Top 25 Things to do in Jaipur.
16. Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park in India is a huge tiger reserve covering more than 100 square kilometers. This used to be the hunting grounds for the kings of Rajasthan but now is a venerated sanctuary for tiger, leopards, buffalos and the Indian crocodile. The pivotal point of the park is the Ranthambore Fort which is surrounded by temples sacred to the locals. The best way to visit Ranthambore is to stay at a safari lodge for a few nights and go on game drives twice a day to maximize your chance of spotting a tiger. The nearby Oberoi Vanyavilas is a gorgeous property that will cater to your every need from cocktails to delicious breakfast after an exciting game drive every morning and evening.
17. Pushkar
Pushkar is a Hindu pilgrimage town that is world famous for its Camel Fair that takes place in October/November. The fair includes camels being dressed up and entered into beauty contests and camel trades and races. A carnival with local musicians, magicians, snake charmers is set up to attract more tradesmen. The town revolves around the holy lake around which sacred ghats and more than 400 temples are devoted to the many gods in Hinduism. Brahmaji Temple, Varahi Temple and Sri Rangnath Swamy Temple are frequented by devotees from across the region. The main attraction for travelers in the town is the main bazaar with all kinds of souvenirs.
18. Karni Fort Bambora
This heritage hotel in the middle of rural Rajasthan is a well kept secret. The Karni Fort has been lovingly restored to its magnificent glory by the Thakur and Thakurani of Sodawas. The rooms have beautiful Rajput architecture with stained glass windows with a birds eye view of the area. The best way to enjoy here is to book an Ayurvedic massage, go on a tour of the museum and the old tunnels, walk around the nearby village and bazaar or take a horse safari to the tribal areas. If you prefer to venture further out, the hotel arranges picnics to Jaisamand Lake and Udaipur. To end the day you can catch the gorgeous sunset by the poolside before heading in for dinner while being entertained by dancers from the local villagers. If you are looking for a romantic getaway in the middle of the desert then this is one of the best places to visit in North India.
19. Orchha
This is a lesser known tourist destination that has recently come into the spotlight. The architecture of the region exemplified in the Orccha Fort, the Laxminarayan Temple and the Chattris on the river are the top attractions. The light and sound show at the Orccha fort really highlights the beauty of the structure you might have missed in the day time. Boating on the Betwa river at sunrise is another beautiful activity to relax you before heading in for a dinner of the local cuisine. Orccha is one of the top upcoming places to visit in North India because it is fully preserved and the magic hasn’t caught the eye of many yet.
20. Bhimbetka
The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are located in the Vindhyan Mountain near the city of Bhopal. These are a cluster of five rock shelters with paintings dating back from the Mesolithic Period to the Historical Period more than 30,000 years old. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and also the oldest cave paintings in Asia. The paintings depict local birds and animals, mythical creatures and everyday scenes from the lives of the people. These are mind blowing paintings when you consider that these have existed for 30 thousand years and are some of the earliest paintings ever created by man. These paintings depict the entire history of humankind itself and you should not miss the chance to see them yourself.
Where all have you been to ? Tell me in the comments below!
Been to almost all the places on your list except Orchha, Bhimbetka, Gulmarg & Pushkar. I have been to most wildlife sanctuaries but yet to visit Jim Corbett. Leh Ladakh is gold and enjoyed my a stay of over a month there. It is out of this world!!
Looks so beautiful, photos looks kind of like Nepal and I loved nepal! I should definitely visit!
I love the north part of India. It offers incredible architecture, culture, food, and beautiful nature all around. Palaces, mosaics, and sculptures are impressive—such great colors. I was in India three times so far, and I have been in most of the places you describe. But Pushkar, Ranthambore, Jaisalmer, Jim Corbett National Park, Leh-Ladakh, and Amritsar are still on my bucket list. I hope to visit them one day! I like your plan!
I have not been to a lot of these places on your list except Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan. Would love to explore Rishikesh, LEH, Varanasi and Kajuraho next time when I go to India. What I love the most is, unlike other countries, India provides a great palatte of opportunity for photographers – right from the street scenes to people photography.
OMG! I am hopefully visiting in April next year (was supposed to be this year). Your pictures are stunning and I hope I get to visit them next year! Saving for later!
There are so many places which you have mentioned and few are definitely my favorite. I liked your list it is well compiled and covers most of the must-see places. Very well researched article.
There are so many fantastic places to visit in India! It would be surreal to see the Taj Mahal for sure, but my preference would be to visit Gulmarg to stay on a boat and hike the mountains.
Absolutely stunning and vibrant photos! India has never really been on my bucket list, but after seeing so many gorgeous places I may be changing my mind. My grandparents travelled extensively through India and I’d like to see some of the places they did!
My gosh India looks so beautiful. And so diverse. I have been talking to some friends about going…when that’s a safe thing to do. Thanks for sharing this list, Ill definitely keep it in mind.
Beautiful photos! I’ll pin for later 🙂