India’s North India is an exciting place to be! It is home to numerous natural wonders such as the Himalayas in the North, Thar desert in the West.
Along with this, India’s northern region is also home to several beautiful cities such as Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pushkar and more.
All these cities are iconic and are the opening gates to India’s phenomenal history, heritage and architectural finesse.
India is a huge country and by saying North India, we primarily mean Indian states – Himachal, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. These collectively form North India and are a treasure trove.
If you are keen on exploring these places, give a read till the end. Here we have a list of the most amazing places to visit in India.
Taj Mahal, Agra –
The Taj Mahal tops the chart when it comes to the top tourist attractions to visit in India. The Wonder of the World has its own charm and delves millions of people in its impeccable beauty.
The ivory-white marble monument is so symmetrical in design that it oozes old luxury and attention to detail.
Things to do for first timers:
Sunrise/sunset Taj Mahal Sightseeing – Book your Taj mahal tour in a way that you get to visit the Taj Mahal during the sunrise. It looks spectacular as the sun rays turn the white monument into Yellow colour.
Jaipur, Rajasthan –
The capital of Rajasthan (an Indian state) is one of the most beautiful cities in India. It is admired by millions and is also called the ‘Pink city of India’. Why? The buildings in the Jaipur Old City are all cladded with a unique shade of Red, Orange and Pink.
The scenic markets of Old City are soothing to the eyes and camera. Further explore the regal City Palace, the residence of the Royal Family of Jaipur. Amer Fort (A hill-top fort on the outskirts of the city), Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mahal.
If you are in Jaipur, a visit to these places are a must to understand this beautiful city.
Things to do for first timers:
Discover the flavours of Rajasthani Cuisine – For both vegetarians and non vegetarians, Rajasthani cuisine offers its culinary treasures. The royal state is loved for its regal hospitality and cuisine that’s full of aromatic spices, and flavours.
Udaipur, Rajasthan –
Popular with the phrase ‘Lake city of India’, Udaipur is indeed a city of beauty! The elegant City Palace, the Jag Mandir, and the museums in the city talk about the city’s royal heritage and ways Indian royals used to live. Explore this beautiful city and take note of the places that come by.
Places like Art Galleries, cafes, museums, local markets and of course the royal palace of Udaipur. The city is admired for its lakes such as Lake Pichola, Lake Fatehsagar and more.
Make sure to spend plenty of time sitting or strolling by Ghats nearby.
Things to do for first timers:
Boat ride in Lake Pichola and Jag Mandir – The city of Udaipur has numerous lakes where Lake Pichola is certainly the most serene. The admirable and picturesque views are all open as you take a boat ride in Lake Pichola.
The boat will take you to Jag Mandir, a small palace in between Lake Pichola. Tip: Book your boat ride from City Palace.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan –
Spread across 1334 square kilometres, the Ranthambore National Park deserves your attention for the right reasons. The national park is a Tiger reserve and you’ll get to see the Royal Bengal Tiger ( indigenous to India and is also the national animal of India).
The Ranthambore National Park lies in the Sawai Madhopur region of Rajasthan and is home to numerous animals such as the Tiger, Leopard, Sambar Deer, Chital, Indian Flying Fox and more.
Things to do for first timers
Local village visits – It’s a saying that the real India happens in its villages. Hence, your Ranthambore Tour can be an opportunity to visit local villages, and interact with people. Trek a bit and visit a nearby village. Understand their way of living and spend time with them.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh –
The ancient town of Varanasi is said to be one of the oldest cities in the world. Its buildings, and monuments are evidence that this is something extraordinary and doesn’t belong to this world.
What’s more iconic about Varanasi or Banaras (as we call it) is its spiritual significance. It’s a pilgrimage to the Hindus and is popular for Ganga Aarti, beautiful Ghats and heritage.
Things to do for first timers:
Ganga Aarti – Varanasi being an ancient spiritual city is alive in its purest form! Experience the unity of body, mind and soul by witnessing the grand Ganga Aarti. It is enthralling and purifying.
Rishikesh & Haridwar –
Situated on the holy Ganga river, both Rishikesh and Haridwar are spiritual sites and a pilgrimage to the Hindus. These cities offer a glimpse into what Hinduism is all about.
The city of Rishikesh is famous for Yoga activities and is also called as the Yoga capital of the world. Further, to give an adrenaline rush, you can explore adventure opportunities here such as Bungee Jumping, Ropeway and River rafting.
Things to do for first timers
Yoga classes – Turn inward as you set your feets in the holy town of Rishikesh. The yoga capital of the world will welcome you with open hands and you can get to experience the mindfulness of Yoga here. Enrol yourself in Yoga classes and make the most of your time here.
Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is a popular tourist city in Punjab. The city is a pilgrimage for Sikh followers who visit the iconic Golden Temple (Swarn Mandir). The city also shares India’s border with its not so friendly neighbour Pakistan and organises the poignant Wagah Border Ceremony. This ceremony is performed by both India and Pakistan.
Things to do for first timers
Wagah border ceremony – The retreating Wagah Border ceremony is one of a kind! It is a daily ritual where both countries participate. The ceremony has been happening everyday since 1959 where the flags are lowered down and gates are closed.
It is a well choreographed ceremony and both countries display their military show.
Leh & Ladakh –
The Himalayas are said to be the roof of the world. The towering mountains are ecologically significant to the area’s geography and offer spectacular places to explore. A tour to Leh & Ladakh is an opportunity to explore the rough terrain, breathtaking views of the mountains and discover the ancient monasteries.
Some of the iconic places to visit in Leh & Ladakh are Umling La Pass, Khardung La Pass, Pangong Tso Lake, and Nubra Valley. The region of Leh & Ladakh is also a defence land. Hence, do check the eligibility before booking a tour.
If you’re lucky enough to get there, you’ll get to see exclusive defence establishments as well.
Things to do for first timers – Bike Ride through Leh & Ladakh
The terrain of Leh Ladakh seems out of this world and adventure seekers aim to soak in all. Indulge in a group Bike Ride (motorcycle ride) across the region and discover the immense beauty of this place. A bike ride through Leh & Ladakh is a lifetime moment and you’ll cherish it throughout your life.
Shimla & Manali, Himachal Pradesh –
Located in the midst of the Himalayas, Shimla and Manali are beautiful cities. The cities are popular for serene views, sunsets, and snow capped mountains. Shimla is also the capital of Himachal Pradesh and was a popular destination for the British rulers during the Colonial Era.
Things to do for first timers
Toy Train ride – The Shimla Kalka toy train ride was opened in 1903 and still is well maintained for the commuters. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tourist attraction. The train takes you through a scenic route with beautiful villages and overlooking mountains.
Dharamshala & McLeodGanj, Himachal Pradesh –
These two beautiful Himachal towns are admired for their scenic views, pristine blue sky and natural beauty. Though these towns are in similar lines with the Shimla and Manali, these are more scenic and less crowded than the two. The best time to visit Dharamshala and McLeodGanj is from March to June.
Things to do for first timers
The Triund Trek – Trek step by step to the Triund Trek and soak into the views upon reaching the top. The views are breathtaking and will allure your mind and soul.
India is a huge country and north India is just a part of it. Apart from this list, there are numerous other places which are beautiful and will make your retreat a pleasurable one. Plan your India tour with us and explore India like never before.
