6. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is one absurd blend of yogis, sanyasis, pilgrims, travelers, hippies, adventure sports enthusiasts and more. Situated in the foothills of India and popularly called the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh is the place where the holy River Ganges and River Chandrabhaga converge. Visit the Yoga and Meditation centers around Rishikesh to enrich yourself spiritually and indulge in the unparalleled adrenaline-pumping sport of white water rafting and bungee jumping to reaffirm your faith in life.
Places To Visit: Lakshman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parmarth Niketan, Gita Bhawan, Beatles Ashram, Ganga Beach, Marine Drive, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Ashram
Things To Do: River rafting- The most popular thing to do in Rishikesh, Bungee Jumping, Camping and Bonfire, Mountain biking, Flying Fox, Cliff Jumping, Body Surfing, Trekking, Rappelling and rock climbing, Kayaking, Ayurvedic Massage and therapies
7. Kasol
It may have become a bit of a cliche but there is a reason Kasol is so famous. It is the best place in India to just chill and do nothing. With its sleepy restaurants and cafes and hoards of Israeli tourists, Kasol makes for one of the best places to visit in North India and a perfect holiday destination away from the urban madness. It is the ideal summer getaway as the weather here is always pleasant. You can also explore nearby gems of the Parvati valley like Tosh, Manikaran, and Kheerganga.
Places To Visit: Malana Village, Kheer Ganga Peak, Parvati River, Tirthan Valley, Pulga Village, Manali, Kullu
Things To Do: Trekking and Rock Climbing, River Rafting
8. Manali
No list is complete without the very pristine valley of Manali. Resting amidst two Himalayan Ranges and witness to the gushing streams, Manali is the most popular and favorite summer escape among adventurers as well as honeymooners. Hosts of temples, springs, and adventures like paragliding, zorbing, trekking, and rafting lure the tourists to spend a memorable summer holiday here.
Places To Visit: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Bhrigu Lake, Great Himalayan National Park, Manali Sanctuary, Van Vihar
Things To Do: Don’t leave Manali without planning an excursion to Rohtang Pass, the unmatchable paradise covered with snow and offering breathtaking grandeur of nature
9. Ladakh
Be ready to develop an unbreakable bond with this stupendous place. A cold barren desert where you can Hear the hills calling. Ladakh unveils its alluring facets as you decide to delve deeper. A perfect holiday destination that provides an escape from the heat. From contrasting landscapes of white sand dunes and green valleys to high mountain passes and centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, Shanti Stupa to Khardung-La (highest motor-able pass in the world), azure lakes to river valleys Ladakh has many stupendous marvels to offers.
Places To Visit: Chumathang, Old Monasteries, Cold Deserts and Moon Lands, Magnetic Hills, Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa, Khardung-La
Things To Do: Shower in natural hot water springs, Ride through the China Border, Watch the sunrise by the lake, Camp in the mountains, See the majestic Himalayas reflected in crystal clear lakes, Meditate in an open monastery
10. Tawang
Located in the lap of Eastern Himalayas this less-explored town may prove to be your rendezvous with a different world altogether. Soak in the spirit of Buddhism at the monasteries-dotted canvas of Tawang, discover the exhilarant tribal culture and savor the exquisiteness of the soaring Himalaya.
Places To Visit: Tawang Monastery, Brahmadung Nunnery, Urgelling Monastery, Craft Center, Tawang War Memorial, Khinmey monastery
Things To Do: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some spectacular high-altitude lakes, like Ptso and Sangster, with colorful rhododendrons blooming all around
Suggested Read:
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Places To Visit In North-East India
There’s an enchanting feel to the number seven. Days of the week, wonders of the world, colors of the rainbow, marriage vows - are all spoken of in sevens! In keeping with the number’s mystical quality, we turned our focus to India’s Northeastern states or the Seven Sisters that are bewitching in their beauty and diversity in their culture. Largely unexplored, the states take pride in the natural way of living, and its people are deeply reverent and respectful of the environment. Shillong, Gangtok, Nagaland, Tawang, Majuli, and Meghalaya have somehow not been on the radar of the Indian tourist. It’s time now to change that. Imposing lush green valleys, mountains, raging rivers, astounding monasteries, ethnic customs, and traditions beckon you to explore its charm that will surely sweep you off your feet.
11. Gangtok
Gangtok, an urban settlement and the capital city of Sikkim. It's the largest town in the Indian state of Sikkim which is one of the top recommended places to visit in North East India. With adventure activities, leisure activities, and monasteries, Gangtok has every reason to be your perfect holiday destination.
Places To Visit: Nathu La Pass, Hanuman Tok, Rumtek Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, and Phodong Monastery
Things To Do: River Rafting in Teesta, riding a yak at Tsomgo Lake, paragliding, and ropeway cable-ride from Deorali
12. Shillong
Shillong is arguably the best option for those who wish to spend the summer holidays in the north-eastern states of India. The shimmering lakes, lush hills with pine trees, mystical waterfalls and adventure activities make Shillong a major tourist attraction. As an added advantage, Shillong is the only hill station in India that is accessible from every corner.
Places To Visit: Ward’s Lake, Sweet Falls, Shillong Peak, Khasi Hills, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, and Mawjymbuin Caves
Things To Do: Waterfall rappelling at Elephant Falls, cave exploration, shopping at Bara Bazaar, boating in Umiam Lake, and yacht riding at Umiam Lake Water Sports Complex
13. Tripura
Greatly known for its large architectural grandeur and medieval history, Tripura is another must-visit destination and one of the perfect places to visit in North East India. Also, known as the "Queen of Hills" and third smallest state amongst the Seven Sisters, Tripura is encircled by deltaic Bangladesh on all four sides. The scintillating rivers, scenic backgrounds, and the strong seasonal rhythms in the climate make this place a unique one.
Places To Visit: Ujjayanta Palace, Tripura Government Museum, Unakoti, Neermahal, Sipahijola Wildlife Sanctuary, Rudrasagar Lake, HumHum Waterfall
Things To Do: Go boat riding to Neer Mahal, get an idea about the primitive art forms at Unakoti, explore the Buddhist site in Pilak, go Tribal Walking in Jampui Hills, taste Dry Fish
14. Mizoram
If you are looking for an idyllic, languorous, laid-back holiday then Mizoram is the place to be. Its calm and unhurried pace of life is just the right antidote for a city dweller. Eleven thousand feet above sea level, the city sits on a hilly ridge, with the entire valley lying below like a glittering jewel. You can well imagine the view that awaits you. Do take back a few bamboo or canes artifacts from here to present your beloved ones.
Places To Visit: Reiek Mountain, Tam Dil Lake, Solomon's Temple, Aizawl, Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Betlingchhip, Thasiama Seno-Neihna
Things To Do: Go mountain biking in Hmuifang Hill, Go trekking in the Virgin Forests, Caving in Khuangchera Puk, Attend the Chapchar Kut Spring Festival, Visit Luangmual Handicrafts Centre, Try the Mizo Bland Food
15. Manipur
Legend has it that this erstwhile royal kingdom was created out of God’s love for dancing. It is only fitting then that one of the most lyrical and graceful Indian classical dance forms, Manipuri, originated from this state. Rich in culture and evergreen beauty Manipur has a few surprises up its sleeve.
Places To Visit: Three Mothers Art Gallery, Kangla Fort, Khongjom War Memorial, Manipur Zoological Garden, Sadu chiru waterfalls, Kombirei Garden, ISKCON Temple
Things To Do: Boating in Loktak Lake, Shop in the Moreh-Tamu International Market, Visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park
16. Pelling
A place to discover the most beautiful monasteries, waterfalls, highest bridges, and garden of Sikkim. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sikkim. Explore everything from flora to fauna of this mesmerizing place. Also, visit the Rimbi Waterfall - This glittering waterfall turns into Rimbi River, which is visited by locals and tourists for swimming and fishing.
Places To Visit: Sangachoeling Monastery, Darap Village, Sewaro Rock Garden, Singshore Bridge - Highest Bridge in Sikkim, Rimbi Waterfall, Pemayangtse Monastery
Things To Do: Pay a visit to Kanchenjunga Fall, Explore the wildlife at Kanchenjunga National Park, Explore Kanuk - a place Lepcha tribe to know more about the rural culture of Sikkim
17. Mawlynnong Village
Cleanliness has a new name in India - Mawlynnong Village, it serves as an epitome of cleanliness setting an example for the rest of the country. You'll find dustbins made out of Bamboo all over the village, Plastic Bags are banned whereas smoking is prohibited too - It just can't get better. People are not just adamant about cleaning their houses by also step out to sweep the roads and plant trees around to make it a better place.
Places To Visit: Root Bridge, Laitlum Canyons, Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Mawkdok Dympep Valley, Mawjymbuin Cave
Things To Do: Trek to the different Root Bridges, Enjoy the local culture by planting a few trees around, Explore the Arwah Caves and visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians to pay a spiritual tribute
18. Mon
It's one of the best destinations in Nagaland that you've got to visit to discover the real simplicity of life. If you want to uncover the real north-east then this is the place to be as you'll be left awestruck by the environment of this place. Learn about the Konak Tribe, stay in cozy cottages, expedite the Veda Peak and so much more. There are also several small villages around the area which will give you a great insight into the rural life of Nagaland.
Places To Visit: Longwa Village, Tenyimi Church, Museum in Chenloisho Village, Doyang River, Nagaland science center, Hong Kong Market, Shilloi Lake
Things To Do: Explore Villages Around - Longwa, Chui, Naganimora, Shangnyu, Trek to Veda Peak and Explore The Konak Tribe
19. Nainital
Located in the valleys of Uttarakhand, Nainital is truly a dreamland on earth. Nainital put its beauty in front of you and places like Cave Garden, Trekking on China Peak, Snow view, Ropeway, Tiffin top, Himalayan Darshan, Lover’s point, Bhimtal, Mall Road, Boat House Club, Boating in Naini Lake, Corbett National Park. Locals here are known for giving warm welcomes and greet you with a smile. It makes the town one of the safest places in India to travel for women.
Places To Visit: Nainital Lake, Goddess Naina Devi, Kainchi Dham, Naina Peak, Eco Cave Gardens, High Altitude Zoo, Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat), Nainital Ropeway, Snow View Point, Astronomical Observatory
Things To Do: Take a Lake Tour, Eat at Chandani Chowk: Savour the Taste of Delhi on Nainital Budget, Himalaya View from Snow View, Visit the Nainital Zoo, Give Adventure a Way at Cave Garden, Learn Rock Climbing
20. Lahaul And Spiti
This Himalayan desert is better known for its enchanting mountains, breathtaking views, fascinating fairy-tales and is home to some of the warmest people in the country. As an added advantage, this place is extremely safe because of its attractive and safe lodging facilities, which indeed is one of the most important aspects for women travelers.
Places To Visit: Kibber Village, Dhankar Gompa, Tabo Monastery, Langza, Trilokinath Temple, Chandra Taal, Chandratal Lake, Kunzum Pass, Spiti Valley, Hikkim, Gue Mummy, Baralacha Pass
Things To Do: Chandratal and Spiti Jeep Safari, Hampta Pass and Chandrataal Lake Trek, Motorcycle Tour to Spiti Valley, Hampta Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh, Trek to Mount Kanamo, Motorcycle Tour through Lahaul - Spiti, Road Trip to Kinnaur and Spiti Valley
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Places To Visit In South India
The Southern half of India has a distinctive essence and doused in a riot of rich cultures and colors. With a well preserved cultural heritage, each state in South India has a galore of tourist attractions to offer. The elaborate and intricate temple designs, heritage sites, sculptures, misty hills, wildlife sanctuaries, palm-lined canals, and sandy beaches make the Southern half of India truly a tourist’s paradise. Gear up with all your travel equipment and craft your travel itinerary to explore all the astonishing places to visit in South India.
21. Munnar
A lush green paradise dotted with spice plantations, sprawling tea gardens and endless treat of breath-taking waterfalls and lakes. Yes! such a fairytale place exists on this planet in the name of Munnar. Spend a lovely night at a hill cottage facing the mist-laden hills, wake-up to the chirping birds and walk through the clouds when you are at this astonishing hill station of Kerala.
Places to visit: Attukal Waterfalls, Anamudi, Pothamedu View Point, Echo Point, Eravikulam National Park
Things to do: Spend some riveting moments at the Elephant Park, feeding, bathing and watching the playful creatures
22. Coorg
Flaunting the tropical wonders of the Western Ghat of Karnataka, this Scotland of India is a regnant summer refuge with ligneous slopes, rich biodiversity, mesmerizing cascades, as well as its a treasure of inimitable heritage. Coorg posses a heart-warming expansion of spice and coffee plantations. One of the perfect places to visit in South India for a wildlife enthusiast. Explore the nature's most beautiful wildlife reserves of Nagarhole, Dubare, and Pushpagiri.
Places to visit: Tadiandamol Peak, Brahmagiri Hill, Iruppu Falls, Golden Temple, coffee estate
Things to do: Coorg hosts mind-blowing adventures, ranging from camping, trekking and rock climbing to microlight flying and white-water rafting
23. Ooty
One of the much-acclaimed scenic hot-spot in Tamil Nadu to spend your holidays in South India. Situated in the Nilgiri Blue Mountains hills, the hill station is often called the Queen of Hills. The famous toy train takes you through the nearby lush hills. The little hill station also offers a lot of places to visit and adventure activities to its visitors.
Places to visit: Doddabetta Peak, Ooty Lake, Emerald Lake, tribal Toda huts, Deer Park, Upper Bhawani Lake, Avalanche Lake, St Stephen’s Church, and Kalhatty Waterfalls
Things to do: Ride the Nilgiri Toy Train, horse riding, boating in Ooty Lake, mountain biking in the Blue Mountains, and hang gliding at Kalahatti (20 km from Ooty)
24. Pondicherry
A French colonial and Union Territory town Pondicherry is an absolute beach destination enclosed by the southeastern Tamil Nadu state where its rich heritage and quaint French bakeries are the star attraction. It has preserved its French legacy in its French Quarter, with tree-lined streets, chic boutiques, and mustard-colored colonial villas.
Places to Visit: Pondicherry Beach, Promenade, Pondicherry Museum, Park Monument, French War Memorial, Chunnambar Boathouse, Pondicherry Botanical Garden
Things to do: Enjoy a beautiful Sunrise, Take a boat ride to the Paradise Beach Island, Experience the divine dawn and go birdwatching, Go Scuba Diving for an underwater date with colorful corals, Sunbathe on a sun-kissed day
25. Coonoor
Picturesque enchantments, splendid buildings, kitty cottages with astonishing views of nature Coonoor has many hidden gems within its lap to offer its visitors. Away from the hustle-bustle of the mad city life, Coonoor is an ultimate retreat and a serene destination to spent some quality time.
Places to Visit: Doddabetta, Sim's Park, Coonoor, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Catherine Falls, Dolphin Nose View Point, Tiger Hill
Things to do: St. Catherine’s falls is a popular attraction in Coonoor, for a magnificent view of the falls visit the top of Dolphin’s nose, yet another place to visit in Coonoor is the Droog Fort which was used by the Tipu Sultan, for Golf lovers, Wellington Golf Course will fulfill your sporting spirit
26. Yercaud
Situated in the gorgeous Shevaroy Hills in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a great trekking destination to explore. It's a calm and picturesque hill station with an extensive widespread of orange groves, coffee and spice plantations all across the hill town. Not only among the most beautiful places to visit in South India, Yercaud is gradually becoming a tourist hotspot.
Places to Visit: Shevaroy Hills, Kiliyur Falls, Lady's Seat, Kiliyur Falls, Gents Seat, TreeTop Adventure, Children's Seat
Things to do: Go on a hike to Kiliyur Falls to witness the majestic views of the lush green rolling hills and take a soothing bath under the falls, go on a refreshing walks on through the hills, pay a visit to the beautiful Shervaroyan temple, Japanese Park, Pagoda Point, The Grange, Anna Park, and White Elephant Tooth Rock, take a long drive for panoramic views of spice and tea plantations
27. Kovalam
Kovalam is a coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Palm-backed beaches also include Hawa Beach and Samudra Beach which will leave you awestruck. In the south region, Vizhinjam Juma Masjid mosque will amaze you with its history and architecture. Inland, Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium displays technology used in pearl production. Kovalam situated in the heart of Kerala which is about 16km away from the popular major city of Thiruvananthapuram. If you're a water baby then you've got to try scuba diving here as well The marine fauna includes - pufferfish, groupers, boxfish, sergeants, pipefish and butterfly fish. The best party about this diving site is it has calm waters which makes it a more approachable site for Scuba Diving for tourists. Kovalam is a lot more to offer - what are you waiting for?
Places To Visit: Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Umamaheshwar Temple
Things To Do: Fishing, A religious tour to temples, Hiking at Paradise Beach, Shopping at Gokarna Market, A dip in the Arabian Sea
28. Hampi
One of the UNESCO World Heritage Site positioned in the city of Hospet, Hampi posses a glorious past and reinforcing present. Located within the ruins of Vijayanagara, the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi draws millions of visitors every year. Every time you visit Hampi, it will sense like a stone age from the past buried in the present. Things you can revel in Hampi are captivating riverside cottages (available at an economical price), wood-fired pizzas, hammocks to laze around and even riverside picnic spots. Lease yourself a vehicle, hold your partner tight, and burst off exploring the monumental ruins of the Vijayanagara kingdom that Hampi is known for. They date back to the first half of the fifteenth century which make them not only the most secluded and grand ruins of India but also one of the best tourist places in India.
Places To Visit: Vijaya Vittala Temple, Hanuman Temple, Queen's Bath, Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill
Things To Do: Witness sunset from Matanga Hill, Pay a spiritual tribute at the beautiful temples, Cycle around to explore the ruins and mystical architecture of Hampi
29. Mangalore
The Mangalore city is most often proclaimed as the heart of Karnataka and is situated between the blue waters of the Arabian Sea and the green exalted hills of the Western Ghats. Some water sports activities, dolphin-spotting, and the lazy beach are what you may look forward to at Mangalore. We recommend you propose a weekend of beach-hopping and experience the sun and sand together with your soul mate. Honestly speaking, Mangalore is one of the great places to visit near Bangalore.
Places To Visit: Kadri Manjunath Temple, Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, Panambur Beach, Tannirbhavi Beach, Milagres Church
Things To Do: Explore nature at Butterfly Park, Surf at Ashram, Spiritual Tribute at St. Aloysius College Chapel, Binge on Scrumptious Sea Food
30. Alleppey
Cannot afford to visit Venice? Visit the Venice of the East at Alleppey commonly known as Alappuzha. Notably famous for its remarkable backwater, the city of Alleppey in Kerala is also known for its mesmerizing beaches, lagoons, ancient temples, and Ayurveda wellness centers. Dotting the coastline of the Arabian Sea, Alleppey is the oldest planned backwater town of Kerala. The backwaters coupled with houseboats and the tropical village life makes Alleppey worth a visit.
Places to Visit: Kerala Backwaters, Alappuzha Beach, Andhakaranazhi Beach, Kayamkulam Lake, Kakkathuruthu Island, Pandavan Rock.
Things to do: Take a Boat Tours, Rejuvenate with Ayurveda and Spa pampering, Relish some spiritualism at the temples and churches around, Shop at Alleppey’s famous markets, Witness the practicing sessions of Snake Boat Races, Swim through the sunsets at Pozhiyoram beach, Splurge on the authentic seafood.
You must be feeling spoilt for choices. Pick up any of these places and you would never be disappointed.
FAQs
Q. What are some beach destinations in South India?
A. Kovalam, Varkala, Gokarna Karnataka, Mamallapuram, Kochi, Chennai, Mangalore, Karwar Karnataka, Kappil Thiruvananthapuram
Q. Which is the best place for trekking in South India?
A. Nilgiri — Tamilnadu, Coorg — Karnataka, Peermede — Kerala, Ananthagiri Hills — Andhra Pradesh, Kodachadri — Karnataka, Munnar — Kerala, Chembra Peak — Kerala, Paithalmala — Kerala
Q: Which are the best places in India for Women Solo Travellers?
A: Kasol, Pondicherry, Udaipur, Mysore
Q: Which are the most essentials travel apps in India?
A: Uber And Ola - For Transport, Google Maps - Routes
Q: What are must-have travel essentials for a solo traveler?
A: Sleeping Bag, Personal Documents, Portable Charger, Reusable Water Bottle, Umbrella, Power Adapter, Notebook, Torch, Tiny packet of snacks, First Aid Kit.
Q: Which are the most essentials travel apps in India?
A: Uber And Ola - For Transport, Google Maps - Routes