Have you got tired of the same routine and hectic schedule? Are you looking for an escape to break the monotony? There are times when all you want to enjoy is mental peace—solace and there is no better way than a holiday. If you’re planning a holiday and stuck where to find the best holiday destinations in India then guess what here we’re to help you. All you need to do is to choose any one of the top 10 holiday destinations in India listed below, book your tickets, take a break from the office, pack your bags and turn your “Wanderlust” mode on.
India is a country with diversified culture and beautiful landscapes. In this age where everyone is busy with their routines, a holiday weekend does wonder. There is no doubt in the fact that the tourism industry has helped in booming the economy of the country and is definitely a source of livelihood for the local artists.
From snow-cladded mountains to Marina Beach, from hot deserts of Rajasthan to Kerala, don’t worry we have got them all in our list of top 10 holiday destinations. So, here we’re with our list of 10 Best holiday destinations in India:
1). Goa—The Bachelor’s Treat
Do you remember the scenes from Dil Chahta Hai? From college trips to family gatherings, Goa is an amazing destination and has got something for everyone.
No doubt, Goa manages to get the top spot on our list of top 10 holiday destinations in India and is definitely favorite among all. From endless debauchery to fancy beaches. If you’re planning a bachelorette party or a honeymoon weekend Goa has got it all. The best time to visit Goa is between Mid November to Mid February.
Major tourist attractions in Goa:
• Dudhsagar Falls
• Fort Aguada
• Museum of Christian Art
• Church of St Cajetan
• Naval Aviation Museum, and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Goa:
• Wildlife safari at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Visit the Museum of Goa
• Visit the best beaches like Calangute Beach, Anjuna Beach, and many more.
2). Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir—Heaven on Earth
It is said if there is heaven on Earth, then it is definitely Kashmir. The place is famous for its rich heritage, rich hospitality and a perfect blend of experiences with amazing weather. No wonder why Kashmir is one of the most followed family holiday destinations in India. Kashmir is famous for “Kashmiri Kaahwa”- a hot beverage that is liked by everyone. Srinagar—the capital of the state of Kashmir is definitely a must visit for every traveler. The best time to visit Srinagar is between April to October.
Major tourist attractions in Srinagar:
• Dal Lake
• Shalimar Bagh
• Tulip Garden
• Pari Mahal
• Chashme Shahi, and many more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Srinagar:
• Shikara ride at Dal Lake
• Visit the Hazratbal Shrine
• Explore the Hari Parbat, and more.
3). Ooty, Tamil Nadu—Queen of the Blue Mountains in South India
Ooty is one of the most followed holiday hill stations in South India. Known for its garden and homemade chocolates, Ooty is definitely a paradise for every “acrophile”. Ooty is also known for its tea plantations and famous gardens. If you’re planning to visit Ooty, then believe me your vacation is definitely going to be a hit in this hilly paradise. The best time to visit Ooty is between October to June.
Major tourist attractions in Ooty:
• Doddabetta Viewpoint
• Rose Garden
• Botanical Garden
• St. Stephen’s Church
• Pykara Lake, and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Ooty:
• Take the toy train from Mettupalayam to Ooty
• Boating at Ooty Lake
• Camping at Avalanche Lake
• Try the homemade chocolates, and more.
4). Nainital, Uttarakhand—The City of Lakes
Nainital is also known as the “city of lakes”. Nainital has always been a top spot for Bollywood filmmakers because of its scenic beauty. It is one of the best destinations preferred by Indian families to spend their summer at. There are lots of options available in the city to make their trip memorable. We suggest everyone to visit this place at the time of New Year. The best time to visit Nainital is between April to June and September to October.
Major tourist attractions in Nainital:
• Nainital Zoo
• Naini Peak
• Cave Garden
• Hanuman Garhi
• Jama Masjid Mosque, and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Nainital:
- Boating in the evening at Nainital Lake
- Ropeway ride to Snow View
- Trek to the Tiffin Top
- Birdwatching at Sattal, and more.
5. Ladakh, Kashmir—The Cold Desert
Though until a few years ago, Ladakh was considered as an offbeat family holiday destination and was nowhere in the list of top 10 holiday destinations in India. But, the recent trends in numbers show that Ladakh has managed to beat all the stereotypes and has risen as one of the most preferred holiday destinations in India. The ideal time to visit Ladakh is in the winter months. Ladakh is definitely a paradise for every traveler, all thanks to the beautiful landscapes. The best time to visit Ladakh is between June to September.
Major tourist attractions in Ladakh:
- Shanti Stupa
- Tso Moriri Lake
- Leh Palace
- Nubra Valley,
- Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
- Hall of Fame Museum
- Spituk Monastery, and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Ladakh:
- Camping near Pangong Lake
- Explore the Himalayan views from Khardung La Pass
- White water rafting in Zanskar River
- Drive up till the Magnetic Hill, and more.
6.) Darjeeling, West Bengal—Best Children Holiday Destination
Darjeeling also manages to make to our list of top 10 holiday destinations in India. Not only it is considered to be the best holiday destination for children in the country but also has much to offer to family and happy couples. With Mount Kanchenjunga in the backdrop, this place offers some stunning and breathtaking views. From the toy train ride to the calm environment of Peace Pagoda, if you’re in Darjeeling you’re never running out of tourist spots in this city. Don’t forget to try Darjeeling tea- it’s damn good! The best time to visit Darjeeling is between October to March.
Major tourist attractions in Darjeeling:
- Batasia Loop
- Himalayan Zoological Park
- Peace Pagoda
- Bhutia Busty Monastery
- Rock Garden, and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Darjeeling:
- Enjoy a ride in the toy train of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway,
- Explore the monasteries at Mirik
- Camping at the Tiger Hill, and more.
7). Jaipur, Rajasthan—The Pink City
Jaipur- the Pink city is known for its rich heritage, architectural wonders, well-maintained gardens, and unique museums. The ethnic food is a definite plus! Camel rides, desert safari are also the kind of things you can look out for. I’ll definitely suggest Jaipur as a must visit for everyone once in their lifetime!—“Padhaaro Humaare Desh!” The best time to visit Jaipur is from November to February.
Major tourist attractions in Jaipur:
- Hawa Mahal,
- Jaigarh Fort
- Jantar Mantar
- Jal Mahal
- Albert Hall Museum
- Nahargarh Fort
To Do’s, if you’re in Jaipur:
- Elephant rides at Amer Fort
- Enjoy a royal stay at City Palace
- Boating at Man Sagar Lake, and more.
8). Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh—The Indian Lhasa(Mcleodganj)
Dharamshala is an abode of peace and tranquility in the Land of Gods—Himachal Pradesh. This place attracts a large number of tourists and serves as a hilly treat for everyone. It is one of the most looked after popular weekend destinations for Delhites and Punjabis. One can always find their escape in Mcleodgaanj, also known as Mini Tibet, take a trek to Triund or visit the nearby waterfall at Bhagsunag and much more. The snow cladded mountains are a pure delight if you’re visiting Dharamshala after September. The best time to visit Dharamshala is from September to June.
Major tourist attractions in Dharamshala:
- St. John’s Church
- Tsuglagkhang Temple
- Namgyal Monastery
- Tibetan Museum
- HPCA Cricket Stadium
- Indrunag Temple
- Triund Trek
- Bhagsunag Waterfall and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Dharamshala:
- Visit the Bhagsu Nag temple
- Explore the Bhagsu Nag Waterfalls
- Boating at Dal Lake
- Shopping in the local markets, and more.
9). Andaman and Nicobar Islands—Emerald Islands
This archipelago is definitely a bliss for every shutterbug and traveler. It is a collection of 532 islands out of which only 36 are open for the tourists as holiday destinations. These emerald isles present the best scenic views in the nation and have India’s best nesting beaches for various species of marine turtles. There is a whole new world of sea life to be explored in this part of the country. The best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands is from November to mid-May.
Major tourist attractions in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
- Havelock Islands
- Radhanagar Beach
- Elephant Beach
- Laxmanpur Beach
- Vijaynagar Beach
- Kalapathar Beach
- Sitapur Beach, and more.
To Do’s, if you’re in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
- Explore the coral reefs and enjoy diving at Elephant beach
- Witness a mesmerizing sunset at Radhanagar beach
- Explore the rock formations at Vijaynagar beach, and more.
10). Shimla, Himachal Pradesh—The British Capital of India
Shimla- the British Capital of India is one of the most looked after destinations in the country. This place reflects the classic architecture of British Raj in India. When you’re in Shimla, don’t forget to stroll at Mall Road, take toy train ride and relish the charm of Hasan valley. The best time to visit Shimla is between March to June and July to September.
Major tourist attractions in Shimla:
- Jakhoo Temple
- The Ridge
- Rashtrapati Niwas
- Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
- Shimla Heritage Museum
- Christ Church.
To Do’s, if you’re in Shimla:
- Shopping on the Mall Road
- Enjoy a train ride from Kalka to Shimla
- Explore the Johnnie’s Wax Museum, and more.
That’s all with our list of top 10 Best holiday destinations in India. I hope this list works for you. Do mention about your experiences in the comment section. Stay tuned to read more.