India! It's such a beautiful, diverse and culturally rich country that needs no introduction. And we don't need to tell you that with diversity, comes a chance to experience a lot in just one place.
India is a country with 29 beautiful states and 7 union territories. With numerous things to explore within the place, we often find it difficult which part of India to explore and which to ignore.
Keeping the same into our prime focus, we bring you a curated guide to the 36 best tourist places in India you must visit once in your lifetime.
Places to Explore in North-India
1. Haryana
The North-Indian state of Haryana is a blend of all the riches and rags you can see in one place. With the "Millionaire City" like Gurgaon and Faridabad on one hand and small village towns with flourishing agriculture such as Rewari and Karnal on the other, Haryana is a unique place where you can enjoy it all at once.
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Tourist places to visit in Haryana: Kingdom Of Dreams, Leisure Valley Park, Pinjore Garden, Surajkund, Damdama Lake, Karnal Haveli, Sultanpur National Park, Jurasik Park Inn, Oyster's Water Park, etc.
2. Chandigarh
The northern union territory of India is stacked with all the pomp, show and enthusiasm you could ever find in any other city. The city of Chandigarh is beautiful, clean, spacious and modern. With such prosperity and rich agricultural land, you'll find the richest of the richest living here in the lap of luxury. The place has such pleasant weather which makes it one of the best tourist places in India.
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Tourist places to visit in Chandigarh: Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, Elante Mall, Chhatbir Zoo, Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh, Open Hand Monument, Chandigarh Capitol Complex, etc.
3. Delhi
Delhi is unique and ultimate in every aspect! From historical landmarks to the charm of Old Delhi and the yummiest street food, Delhi is the place to be for all the tourists to visit when on a tour around India. Don't forget the blessed shopping market of Sarojini, Lajpat, and Janpath!
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Tourist places to visit in Delhi: The Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, India Gate, Hanuman Mandir, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Jantar Mantar, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, etc.
4. Himachal Pradesh
The beautiful terrain of mountains in Himachal Pradesh is a sight for sore eyes? This mountain landscape at the foothills of the Himalayas is a geographical marvel with valleys, plains and snow-capped mountains. Himachal Pradesh is deservedly sought out by adventure lovers. Alternatively, the state provides a refreshing escape for those who are craving crisp mountain air. And don't miss the toy trains! One of the Best Tourist Places in India, Himachal Pradesh is a place that is crowded with tourists throughout the year.
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Tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh: Shimla, Manali, Rohtang Pass, Kullu, Spiti Valley, Chandra Taal, Hidimba Devi Temple, Jhakoo, Great Himalayan National Park, Christ Church, Kinnaur Kailash, Bhrigu Lake, Kunzum Pass, Bara-lacha la, etc.
5. Jammu And Kashmir
Heaven on Earth or Jammu And Kashmir, one or the same thing. However, due to political upheavals in the place, people very often avoid it but this is one place that you should visit at least once in your lifetime. Whether it be Jammu, Leh or Srinagar, each place is jaw-droppingly beautiful in itself and so unique from the others that you wouldn't want to leave. From tourists to adventure lovers to pilgrims, the place attracts all.
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Tourist places to visit in Jammu And Kashmir: Ladakh, Dal Lake, Raghunath Temple, Gulmarg, Chemrey Monastery, Pangong Tso, Chadar Trek, Vaishno Devi Mandir, Dras War Memorial Kargil, etc.
6. Punjab
The name of the place itself speaks volumes of energy, non-veg spicy food, prosperity, and greenery. The state of Punjab in the lap of the northern plains of India is worth a visit for all the food lovers. Venture further afield in the state to discover the simplicity and charm of rural life, amidst an ever-growing urban life.
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Tourist places to visit in Punjab: Golden temple, Jallianwala Bag, Wagha Border, Chhatbir Zoo, Akala Takht, Qila Mubarak, Qila Mubarak, Patiala, Harike Wetland, etc.
7. Rajasthan
This royal and colourful state is on top of the list for any non-Indian traveller visiting India. The vibes of the place are nothing like you'll experience in any other place. One of the most visited states of India, the place is exotic. From palaces, forts, bandej, daal bati churma, desert, camels, elephants, twirled moustaches, wildlife safaris, and snake charmers, you'll find each and everything here.
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Tourist places to visit in Rajasthan: Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Mount Abu, Chokidhani, Mehrangarh, Jantar Mantar, Ranthambore National Park, etc.
8. Uttarakhand
Towering Himalayan Peaks, scenic hill stations, water bodies, and unspoiled natural terrains make Uttarakhand one of the most visited and best tourist places in India. Ancient holy places, forests and valleys, national parks, and an abundance of trekking options are some of the major attractions of Uttrakhand. The place is also called the land of temples as it is home to many holy Hindu pilgrimages while the holy river of Ganga flows through the state.
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Tourist places to visit in Uttarakhand: Nainital, Mussoorie, Dehradun, Valley of Flowers, Nanda Devi, Tungnath, Badrinath Temple, Rajaji National Park, Haridwar, etc.
9. Uttar Pradesh
Not your ideal tourist place, except as the infamous location of Taj Mahal, this place has much more to offer. This spiritual and historical destination has a lot to offer, historical spots, delish sweets, scenic riversides and holy sites. Don't forget to indulge in the sinful aromatic food of Lucknow!
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Tourist places to visit in Uttar Pradesh: Taj Mahal, Agra, Akbar's Tomb, Agra Fort, Varanasi, Lucknow, Vrindavan, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
Places to Explore in West-India
10. Dadar and Nagar Haveli
Another union territory in western India wedged between Maharashtra and Gujarat is a heaven for nature lovers. A sylvan paradise that derives its' name from the Portuguese word silva, which means the wood is a place for spectacular beauty. Also, for lovers of history, the place is a true gem.
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Tourist places to visit in Dadar and Nagar Haveli: Silvassa, Old church of Our Lady of Piety, Ruins of the Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple at Bindrabin, The Tribal Museum, Hirwa Van Garden at Piparia, etc.
11. Daman And Diu
Another worthy tourist place in India, Daman and Diu in Gujarat i.e. West India consists of two separate areas divided by the Arabian Sea. The beautiful place surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Daman Ganga River is a part of the country that is both culturally and scenically beautiful.
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Tourist places to visit in Daman And Diu: Jampore Beach, Naida Caves, Jallandhar Beach, St. Paul's Church, Gangeshwar Temple, Dominican Monastery, Nani Daman Fort, Bom Jesus Church etc.
12. Goa
Without any doubt, one of the most popular tourist places in India, Goa is the state to beat! Beaches, bars, shacks, dancing, drinks, karaoke, adventure sports, shopping, history, food and the list goes on. We'll wait for you to mention things that Goa doesn't offer because the tourist place has it all!
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Tourist places to visit in Goa: Dudhsagar Falls, Calangute Beach, Gokarna, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Wednesday Flea Market at Calangute, etc.
13. Gujarat
Not commonly associated with being a touristy place as compared to its neighbours, the state of Gujarat is not just an industrial state but truly beautiful and soulful. This western state is definitely one of the best tourist places in India that you should visit and most importantly, if you're there for the Navaratri festival, don't miss being part of the famous Gujarati Garbaa dancing!
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Tourist places to visit in Gujarat: Gir Forest National Park, Sabarmati Ashram, Somnath Temple, Girnar, Dwarkadhish Temple, Rani ki vav, Sun temple, Kankaria Lake, etc.
14. Maharashtra
The popular, large and diverse state of Maharashtra is not to miss at any cost. This state on the west coastline of India attracts visitors who are keen on ancient cave temples, forts, mountains, wineries, tribes, beaches and that practically means anything and everything. Maharashtra is one of the most sought out tourist places in India.
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Tourist places to visit in Maharashtra: Ellora Ajanta Caves, Gateway Of India, Lonavala, Elephanta Island, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Sinhagad, Lohagad, Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, etc.
Places to Explore in South-India
15. Andaman And Nicobar Island
The gorgeous island of Andaman and Nicobar is a dream destination for travellers around India. The place is majestic in its beauty unlike any other state of the country. Around 1,000 kilometres off the east coast of India, in the Bay of Bengal, this group of islands are the paradise on Earth. Not just for scenic beauty, the place gives you ultimate opportunities to try new things and discover your own self.
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Tourist places to visit in Andaman And Nicobar Island: Havelock Island, Baratang Island, Radhanagar Beach, Vier Island, Barren Island, Mount Harriet National Park, North Bay Island, Cellular Jail, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, etc.
16. Andhra Pradesh
From diamond mining to agriculture, leading in all the goods, the state of Andhra Pradesh is predominantly visited by Hindu pilgrims to pray at the temple at Tirupati. This city of Nizams is full of glorious Islamic heritage from centuries of prosperous rule. While the huge statue of Buddha stays something else about the place. A beautiful blend of cultures, Andhra Pradesh is worth exploring.
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Tourist places to visit in Andhra Pradesh: Tirupati, Vellore, Vijayawada, Araku Valley, Rajahmundry, Tirumala, Guntur, Lepakshi, Borra Caves, Horsley Hills, Pulicat Lake, etc.
17. Karnataka
The state of Karnataka in South India has a lot to offer. From ancient ruins, royal heritage, coffee plantations, yoga, national parks, and the beach, Karnataka is no less than its neighbouring South Indian states but it's often neglected as a tourist place in India because of its counterparts.
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Tourist places to visit in Karnataka: Mysore Palace, Lal Bagh, Jog Falls, Virupaksha Temple, Bangalore, Ooty, Abbey Falls, Cubbon Park, Badami cave temples, Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, etc.
18. Kerala
The land of gods! The paradise on Earth! Words fall short when it comes to describing the beauty, that is Kerala. This coastal state has grown to be one of the most popular tourist places in India up there with states like Goa and Rajasthan. Beauty, tradition, culture, plantation, unspoiled tropical beauty enhance the magic of this place.
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Tourist places to visit in Kerala: Thekkady, Fort Kochi, Periyar, Vembanad, Eravikulam National Park, Athirappilly Falls, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Cherai Beach, Backwaters, Ponmudi, etc.
19. Lakshadweep
When it comes to visiting an island, tourists always prefer the Andamans over the Lakshwadeep which is the saddest part of the Lakshwadeep because the beauty of this place is still unexplored and under-appreciated. The Lakshadweep islands are a tropical archipelago of 36 atolls and coral reefs in the Laccadive Sea, off the coast of Kerala. Most of its places are restricted but not all of them are inhabited and to visit the other permission is required which kind of is the reason for its inaccessibility.
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Tourist places to visit in Lakshwadeep: Kavaratti, Urja Mosque, Kavaratti Aquarium, Agatti Island, Bangaram Atoll, Kadmat Island, Kalpeni, Kiltan, Minicoy Island Lighthouse, Amini Wildlife Sanctuary
20. Puducherry
A union territory bounded by the southeastern Tamil Nadu state is rich in its French legacy because it was a French colonial settlement in India until 1954. The place has tree-lined streets, mustard-coloured colonial villas and chic boutiques which is a kind of thing you can't find in the rest of India and this is what makes it one of the best tourist places in India. Your Instagram will love the aesthetics you click here!
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Tourist places to visit in Pondicherry: Promenade Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Rock Beach, Bharathi Park, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Pondicherry, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, etc.
21. Tamilnadu
A state filled with ancient Dravidian architecture which craft temples, rock and are a source of classical dance in India is a unique and gorgeous place. The place is a land of festivals, blue beaches, and sunny skies. It's definitely a favourite of tourist places in India.
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Tourist places to visit in Tamil Nadu: Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, Pamban Island, Ramanathaswamy Temple, Kanyakumari, Chennai, Shore Temple, Marina Beach, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, etc.
22. Telangana
It's weird realizing that Charminar in Hyderabad is no more a part of Andhra Pradesh but of Telangana. Which puts Telangana on the map for one of the topmost tourist places in India. The monument overlooks the city's long-running Lakad Bazaar which is heaven for people like you and us: the Non-Vegetarian lovers. It's the real deal here!
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Tourist places to visit in Telangana: Charminar, Hyderabad, Golkonda, Ramoji Film City, Salar Jung Museum, Hussain Sagar, etc.
Places to Explore in East-India
23. Bihar
This state in east India has never been considered as a tourist place, neither by Indians nor foreigners. But to change this tragic misconception, it is essential to know that the state of Bihar is not what you think it to be. In terms of spiritual and rural tourism, this birthplace of Gautam Buddha and the Sonepur Fair is not one to miss.
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Tourist places to visit in Bihar: Mahabodhi Temple, Golghar, Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Barabar Caves, Patna museum, Mahavir Mandir, Mahatama Gandhi Setu, Buddha Smriti Park etc.
24. Jharkhand
With gorgeous waterfalls and elegant Jain temples, this place is studded with beautiful parks and wildlife forests. The attractive state of Jharkhand was once the part of Magadha Empire and was a tributary of Kalinga which makes it historically rich also.
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Tourist places to visit in Jharkhand: Dassam falls, Chota Nagpur Plateau, Baidyanath Temple, Betla National Park, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Tagore Hill, etc.
25. Odisha
Odisha or better known as Orrisa, on the eastern coast of India touching the Bay of Bengal, is one of India's lesser frequented states, as it's predominantly rural and "off the beaten track". However, that does not make it any less gorgeous than the rest of its neighbours. The state has beautiful handicrafts, dances, seafood, temples and tribes which make the visit there worth it.
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Tourist places to visit in Odisha: Konark Sun temple, Jagannath Puri, Chilika Lake, Puri Beach, Lingaraja Temple, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Udayagiri, and Khandagiri Caves, Simlipal National Park, Rajarani temple, etc.
26. West Bengal
India's cultural cauldron of talent and arts, West Bengal is the city is known for its countryside, mountains, and nature. You'll meet old India and the new modern India co-existing in harmony which makes the place a gem of a place to visit in India.
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Tourist places to visit in West Bengal: Darjeeling, Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, Tiger Hill, Mirik, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Belur Math, Indian Museum, Kolkata
Places to Explore in North-East India
27. Arunachal Pradesh
The north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh is the northeasternmost state of the country. From historical places to high fashion streets, it may come across as surprising to you but Arunachal Pradesh offers it all. The tourist place in India has extraordinary beauty as well as it is blessed with the best of everything else.
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Tourist places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh: Parshuram Kund, Golden Pagoda, Jawaharlal Nehru museum, Namdapha National Park, Pangsau Pass, Sally Lake, Deopani Park, etc.
28. Assam
Another North-Eastern beauty, Assam is rich in its wildlife, archaeological sites and tea plantations which offers multiple dimensions for tourists and travellers to explore. The gorgeous Brahmaputra river also flows through this Land of Rhinoceros. The place is quiet and serene and the perfect tourist destination in India.
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Tourist places to visit in Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Kamakhya Temple, Pobita Wildlife Sanctuary, Umananda Island, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, Umananda Temple, Dipor Bil, etc.
29. Manipur
Manipur, a northeastern state untainted & look like something straight out of fantasy. The beauty is unmatched and you wouldn't have even imagined what fruits the place bore and serves you on its plate. It's an adventure in itself.
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Tourist places to visit in Manipur: Loktak Floating Lake, Kangla Fort, Khangkhui Mangsor Cave, Kombirei Garden, Three Mothers Art Gallery, etc.
30. Meghalaya
One of the most visited tourist places in India in the Northeast is Meghalaya. This abode of clouds is unmatched in its scenic and picturesque beauty with any other state of the country. The place features an abundance of natural attractions, perfect for people who love to explore the great outdoors.
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Tourist places to visit in Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Khasi Garo Hills, Shillong View Point, Don Bosco Museum, etc.
31. Mizoram
Another northeastern paradise is Mizoram! The name is derived from "Mizo", the name of the native inhabitants, and "Ram", which means land, and thus Mizoram means "land of the Mizos". A place that offers diversified terrain and different cultures make the visit to Mizoram a heavenly experience.
Image Courtesy: Times of India
Tourist places to visit in Mizoram: Reiek, Murlen National Park, Tam Dil, Phawngpui National Park, Lushai Hills, etc.
32. Nagaland
A mountainous state in northeast India, Nagaland is home to diverse indigenous tribes, with festivals and markets celebrating the different tribes' cultures. The place makes for an amazing tourist destination with its majestic hills and breathtaking valleys.
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Tourist places to visit in Nagaland: Dzükou Valley, Kohima War Cemetry, Naga Heritage Village, Nagaland Zoological Park, Etiben Memorial Tower, etc.
33. Sikkim
A northeastern state bordering 3 of the neighbouring countries of India is sure to be unique and a beautiful blend of all these places. Part of the Himalayas, the area has a dramatic landscape that includes India’s highest mountain, 8,586m Kangchenjunga. The place has glaciers, alpine meadows, steep paths, Buddhist monasteries and thousands of varieties of wildflowers. This is one of the best tourist places in India you should not miss by any chance!
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Tourist places to visit in Sikkim: Lake Tsomgo, Yumthang Valley of Flowers, Khangchendzonga National Park, Gurudongmar Lake, Goecha La, Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, etc.
34. Tripura
Tripura is a hilly state which is home to a diverse mix of tribal cultures and religious groups, and it is one of the most attractive places in the country. Tripura is a dream destination for nature babies!
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Tourist places to visit in Tripura: Unakoti, Ujjayanta Palace, Neer Mahal, Rudrasagar Lake, Sipahijola Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
Places to Explore in Central-India
35. Madhya Pradesh
Central India draws visitors with well-preserved remnants of its compelling history. This archaeological treasure known as Madhya Pradesh provides an intriguing window to the past which is so different from the rest of the country and this is what makes this one of the best tourist places in India.
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Tourist places to visit in Madhya Pradesh: Kanha Tiger Reserve, Gwalior Fort, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Erotic temples at Khajuraho, Best wildlife getaways, Bhimbetka rock shelters, etc.
36. Chhattisgarh
Last of the tourist places in India but definitely not the least, Chhattisgarh is a heavily forested state in Central India known for its temples and waterfalls is a beautiful state and also of a lot of historical significance decorated with carvings from Indian mythology in many parts. The wildlife and jungles of the place are the perfect jungle getaway for every camp loving and nature-loving traveller.
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Tourist places to visit in Chhatisgarh: Mahanadi River, Lakshmana (Laxman) Temple, Jagdalpur, Sanjay Market, Chitrakoot Falls, Bhoramdeo Temple, Teerathgarh Falls, Danteshwari Temple, etc.
These scenic gorgeous 36 entities together make the diverse country of India what it is today. Pack your bags and visit these offbeat tourist places in India and add colours and memories to your adventure bucket list.