Top 25 Popular travel destinations in India

1.) Munnar Kerala

Sprawling tea plantations surround the serene hills of Munnar, which attract adventure travelers hungry for paragliding, treks to Anaimudi (South India’s highest peak) and hikes originating at the confluence of three mountain streams.

The stone Christ Church, built by the British in 1910, is adorned with renowned works of stained glass, and Eravikulam National Park, about 10 miles away, is home to equally colorful wildlife, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (ibex), ruddy mongoose and 120 bird species.

Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park

Tea Gardens
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

2.) Manali, Himachal Pradesh

In Hinduism, Manu was said to have survived a great flood that destroyed the rest of the world. He then recreated mankind in this Kullu Valley town. What a rush, huh? No wonder the towering peaks and verdant terrain of Manali attracts adventure travelers, with heli-skiing, hiking, mountaineering and river rafting the favored active pursuits.

Come down from your endorphin high by breathing deeply at the four-story, wooden Hidimba Devi Temple, which sits in the middle of a nearby deciduous forest, or take a medicinal soak in the hot springs burbling from the ground a 30-minute walk from town.

Place of Interest
Manikaran Gurudwara

This gurudwara in Manikaran, near Manali, was built to commemorate the visit of Guru Nanak to this place. There is a hot water spring nearby which is used to cook some of the food for the Langar.

Hadimba Devi Mandir

With a four-tiered, pagoda shaped roof and a front doorway carved with figures and symbols, the lovely temple stands as a mute tribute to the supreme artist who sacrificed the very hand with which he carved his paen in wood to the godess of the Dhoongri Temple Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhim - the Pandva. Every year in the month of May there is a major festival. At this very place, aeons ago, Bhim killed the strong and witfully cruel demon, Hadimb and married his sister Hadimba, shortly after. Hadimba expurgated her sins by performing a great 'tapa' and consequently began to be worshipped as a goddess. So delighted was the king with the artist, who had built the superb symbol of devotion that he cut off his hand in order to prevent the duplication of the temple elsewhere. Undaunted, the artist trained his left hand at the requets of the people, executed an even finer temole at Trilokinath in Chamba.

River Beas

This river while fulfilling the thirst of many local travellers, also quenches the thirst of the fields of Punjab and Pakistan before flowing into the Arabian Sea. The river emerges from a cavern at the Rohtang pass and assume different identities as the seasons go by. From a clear blue easy flowing mountain river to an awesome torrent during the monsoon

3.) Hampi,Karnataka

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka

The former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi remains an essential religious hub, housing the Virupaksha, Lakshmi Narasimha, Hemakuta Hill, Big Shivlinga and Vithala temples. The architectural ruins of Hampi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rock-climbing enthusiasts will adore Hampi, considered the bouldering capital of India, and the city’s rocky landscape, dotted with ancient temple ruins, makes for a unique climbing experience

4.) Goa
East meets West in this sun-soaked state, where Indian culture intertwines with Portuguese influences left over from a 500-year occupation. The beaches have long served as a magnet for serene hedonists.
To the north, the tourist-centric scene is prevalent, with an international flair that is now skewing more hip than hippie. Travel south for stretches of unspoiled sand and an escape from large resorts. Temples, mosques and wildlife sanctuaries provide diversions from the beach.

Places of Interest
Old Goa
Dudhsagar Falls

 Goa's highest and largest waterfalls is hidden away in an evergreen valley in the Western Ghats. It cascades down over 300 meters forming a swirling pool at the bottom. When viewing the falls at its fullest and best, Dudhsagar looks like milk gushing over the mountains. Hence its name Dudhsagar literally meaning "Sea of Milk".

The Dudhsagar waterfall has a legend attached to its name. The legend tells the story of this powerful and wealthy king who ruled a kingdom in the Western Ghats. His lavish and opulent palace in the hills was surrounded by vast gardens which were full of deer and gazelles.

The King had a beautiful daughter, who used to enjoy taking a bath during the hot summers, in the picturesque lake near the forest on the edge of the King's palace grounds. It was her habit to finish her bath and have a jug of sugared milk in a jug made of pure gold.

One day when she was finishing her usual jug of milk she found herself being watched by a handsome prince, standing amongst the trees. Embarrassed by her inadequate bathing attire, the resourceful Princess poured the sugared milk in front of her to form an improvised curtain to hide her body, while one of the maids rushed to cover her with a dress. Thus the legend born. The sugared milk (dudh) poured down the mountainside and continued to flow in torrents as a tribute to the everlasting virtue and modesty of the Princess of the Ghats.
Anjuna Market

5.) Udaipur

Udaipur, known as the Venice of the East, boasts several sparkling lakes against a backdrop of the Aravail hills. Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir, islands in Fateh Sagar Lake, are the site of Udaipur Solar Observatory and Nehru Garden.
Famous palaces include the magical Lake Palace, now a luxurious five-star hotel, and the massive City Palace on Pichola’s east bank, featuring epic courtyards and stunning paintings.
Place of Interest
Jain Temple – Ranakpur

The Ranakpur Jain Temples command huge respect from the Jain community worldwide. Built during the rule of Rana Kumbha, these temples have included Ranakpur in the list of five main pilgrim destinations of Jains in India. History has it that Rana Kumbha donated a vast stretch of land to Dhanna Shah so as to enable him to realize his dream of building a great temple. Today, these temples attract thousands of visitors every year from across the country and abroad.

The location of Ranakpur, in the tranquil valley of the Aravalli range, 90 km from Udaipur, has also been responsible in attracting a whole lot of visitors to the city.Ranakpur is a village located in Desuri tehsil near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan in western India. It is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur, in a valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range. Ranakpur is easily accessed by road from Udaipur.

Ranakpur is widely known for its marble Jain temple, and for a much older Sun Temple which lies opposite the former.

Shilpgram
City Palace of Udaipur

The City Palace of Udaipur is one of the most remarkable constructions of the Rajput rulers of Rajasthan. Located in the heart of the city of Udaipur and towering over the Lake Pichola, the City Palace unfailingly infuses a sense of awe in the hearts of its onlookers. It is the standing testimony of Rajput passion for art and architecture despite the fact that the exterior is not as elegant as the interiors.

The original construction of the palace was pioneered by Maharana Udai Singh of the Sisodia clan soon after he founded the city of Udaipur. Subsequent Maharanas added their own structures within the palace complex later, but interestingly there is no sign of any inconsistency in the overall appearance. Infact, the entire City Palace complex exudes a beautiful harmony and uniformity in its construction work.

The old part of the palace complex today serves as a museum that stores the legacy of the Rajput rulers for the visitors. Two of the newer portion of the palace have been converted into hotels. 
6.) Gangtok
The capital of the state of Sikkim, Gangtok is an attractive tourist destination, reflecting a unique ambience which derives from its happy blend of tradition and modernity. Alongside the deeply felt presence of stupas and monasteries, Gangtok also bustles like any other thriving town. Some of the key places to visit include Rumtek Monastery, Do-Drul Chorten, Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point and the local bazaar, Lal Bazaar.
Places of Interest
Deer Park
Phurchachu Hot Springs

The hot springs is considered holy as one of the four holy caves, “Kadosangphu" or 'Cave of the occult fairies' is situated here. This is situated at a distance of 25 kms from Gyalsing.

Nathula Pass

7.) Bangalore,Karnataka

Known as both the "Garden City" and "The Silicon Valley of India," Bangalore (officially "Bengaluru") is a techie’s paradise, boasting the highest concentration of IT companies in the country. When you’re done geeking out, there are plenty of gardens, museums, natural features, palaces and temples to fill your dance card. Visit Vidhana Soudha, Cubbon Park and the Ulsoor Lake of Bangalore, well known for its beautiful locales and boating facilities. Bangalore is also a major centre of Indian classical music and dance, and of vivid, cutting-edge nightlife.

Places of Interest
ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna-Chandra Temple

Situated on Chord road, as part of International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is built on a hillock with scenic surroundings. As part of Hare Krishna movement in India, its followers believe that Hindu Lord Krishna is the creator of this world and is central theme of their movement. This temple was established in Bangalore in 1996.

The temple spans across the length of 4-5 football grounds and is quite the sight to see. Massive pillars, very flamboyant idol for worship, laser shows and living quarters, class rooms, yoga centers, dance studios, gift shops and restaurants signify this place of worship. All lot of foreign visitors attend workshops and spiritual programs here.

The annual Rath Yathra, (Chariot Procession) of Krishna and Balrama is attended by thousands of devotees.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Regarded as one of the most richly diverse Botanical Garden's in South Asia. Lalbagh in the Southern part of the city, was laid out by Haider Ali in 1740. Spread over 97-ha (240 acres) of Parkland, many of its tropical plants were brought here by Haider Ali's son Tipu Sultan. Later, John Cameron, the Garden's Superintendent in the 1870s, imported several more rare species from Kew Gardens in London. Cameron was also responsible for initiating work on Lalbagh's famous Glass House, modelled on London's Crystal Palace and Conceived as a venue for horticultural shows. Surrounded by champaka trees and pencil cedars, the Glass House has played host to several visiting dignitaries. An Annual Flower show will be held here.
 
Bannerghatta National Park

8.) DharamShala
Serenely spiritual Dharamsala is home to the largest Tibetan temple outside of Tibet. It’s known for its religious iconography and is the monastery of the Dalai Lama, who holds public lectures a few times a year. Once you’ve restored your spiritual energy, enjoy a picturesque stroll to Bhagsu Waterfall or climb the hill to Triund to bask in stunning views of the Himalayas.

Places of Interest
Tsuglag Khang
Kangra Valley
Triund Dharamshala

9.) Jaipur
If you take one look at the glorious stucco buildings that line Jaipur’s wide streets, you’ll understand why this is nicknamed "The Pink City." Spend your days exploring City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amber and Jaigarh forts. And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, head to one of the bazaars, where you can pick up a pair of camel-leather slippers.

Places of Interest
Amber (Amer) Fort and Palace
Jantar Mantar – Jaipur

The Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Maharaja (King) Jai Singh II at his then new capital of Jaipur between 1727 and 1734. It is modeled after the one that he had built for him at the Mughal capital of Delhi. He had constructed a total of five such facilities at different locations, including the ones at Delhi and Jaipur. The Jaipur observatory is the largest and best preserved of these. It has been inscribed on the World Heritage List as "an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period". Early restoration work was undertaken under the supervision of Major Arthur Garrett, a keen amateur astronomer, during his appointment as Assistant State Engineer for the Jaipur District.

Palace of Wind (Hawa Mahal)

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is the iconic palace symbolizing Jaipur. Was build by Sawai Pratap Singh. The facade seen here, was used by the royal ladies so that they can have a look outside without being seen thought the numerous small windows (close to 1000 windows). It gets its name because these windows allow enough air to flow though and keep the palace cool.

10.) Leh
The Ladakh capital city of Leh lies near the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir, on the crossroads of the historic "Silk Route" from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. The humbling monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thikse and Lamayuru will nurture your spiritual needs, and the landscape of Leh provides for a number of adventure activities including mountaineering, white-water rafting and trekking along the Markha Valley.

Places of Interest
Tibetan Market
Phyang Monastery

This is the Phyang monastery that was constructed in the later half of the 16th century by ruling Namgyal head. The monastery happens to be the first one that inroduced Degungpa teaching of 'Skyob Jigsten Gonbo' in the entire Ladakh region. The Degungpa teachings of 'Skyob Jigsten Gonbo' was founded by Chosje Danma Kunga.

The monastery belongs to the red hat sect of Buddhism and has around 50 monks residing in its premises. The belongings of the temple include hundereds of wooden and bronze statues of Buddhist gods and goddesses. This monastery is also home to the biggest thangkas, one of which is no less than five storey high.The Phyang Museum is yet another attractions of the monastery. It showcases a wonderful collection of Chinese, Tibetan and Mongolian fire arms and weapons.A little distance away from the monastery, Phyang Lake forms a different kind of attraction for visiting tourists.
 
Leh Royal Palace
11.) Havelock Islands

Premium scuba diving and snorkeling are the highlights of the gorgeous Havelock Island, the most popular of the Andaman Islands. Glass-bottomed boats provide a similar up-close marine life experience. Jungle treks and camping are popular landlubbing activities, though the more delicately dispositioned can choose to retire to one of several luxury resorts. Refuel with fresh coconut milk and succulent, just-caught seafood, which dominates every meal.
Places of Interest
Radhanagar Beach

Radhanagar Beach is the most beautiful on the island and was rated as the best in Asia by Time in 2004. Gorgeous, silky white sand backed by a forest that provides welcome shade looks out over turquoise water, some stretches with a sandy bottom good for swimming and some with excellent coral reefs that are great for snorkeling – a great combination indeed. Sunsets here are often spectacular and it's a popular time to be at the beach, but be careful not to miss the last trucks back if you're not staying here. A man with an elephant walks through the forest occasionally, offering rides for a fee. Buses run throughout the day until sunset, as do auto-rickshaws and shared 4 wheel-drive trucks. There are a few food shacks where the road hits the beach, all of which rent snorkels and fins.

Barren Island Volcano

Barren Island, a possession of India in the Andaman Sea about 135 km NE of Port Blair in the Andaman Islands, is the only historically active volcano along the N-S-trending volcanic arc extending between Sumatra and Burma (Myanmar).  The 354-m-high island is the emergent summit of a volcano that rises from a depth of about 2250 m.  The small, uninhabited 3-km-wide island contains a roughly 2-km-wide caldera with walls 250-350 m high.  The caldera, which is open to the sea on the west, was created during a major explosive eruption in the late Pleistocene that produced pyroclastic-flow and -surge deposits.  The morphology of a fresh pyroclastic cone that was constructed in the center of the caldera has varied during the course of historical eruptions.  Lava flows fill much of the caldera floor and have reached the sea along the western coast during eruptions in the 19th century and more recently in 1991 and 1995.

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a national park of India in Wandoor on the Andaman Islands. Situated 29 km. from Port Blair, the Park is located on the South Western coast of South Andaman, in the Bay of Bengal. The parks boundary runs along the coasts as well as some time along island within the range of latitude between 11°22, 06" and 11° 36 -34" N and longitude between 92° 30.00"W and 92° 40.33' E covering a total area of 281 50 ha (281.5 sq km).

15 islands and several islets of the labyrinth group of islands, like Alexandra, Red Skin, Boat, Hobday, Tarmugli, Grub, Chester, Snob, Bell, Pluto, Malay, Jolly Boys, Riflemen, Twins and parts of Rutland island make up this park.

The park was closed for rehabilitation after the 2004 tsunami, but has since reopened, with damage seeming to be less than originally reported. Both Red Skin and Jolly Bouy islands are open during season. The park is under the overall administrative control of the Chief Wildlife Warden of the forest department of A&N islands administration. Though the park is uninhabited, there are 8 villages adjacent to the park area with a population of about 3000 (1981 census).

12.) Wayanad

The emerald landscape of Wayanad is the ideal destination for both intense outdoor adventure and calming restoration. Climb the foothills of Brahmagiri to reach the ancient Thirunelli Temple, hike to the overwhelmingly stunning Meenmutty Falls, or explore Edakkal Caves, rich with prehistoric paintings. Wayanad is brimming with healing Ayurvedic healing spas, perfect for restoring your pleasantly exhausted body after a day of exploring

Places of Interest
Chembra Peak

The peak stands 2100 meters above the sea level and is part of the Meppadi Forest Range. One has to obtain permission, issued free of cost, from the Forest Range Office at Meppadi for the trek. A 20-minutes drive from Meppadi through lush greenery of tea estates will lead the travellers to the three-storeyed forest watch tower on the foot hills of the peak.

From here it is a three km trek to reach the top. It will take one hour of strenuous trek to reach the central point of the peak from the watch tower.

At the zenith there is a heart-shaped perennial lake where drinking water is available from the nearby natural springs even at the height of summer.

It is believed that, a hundred years ago, the British planters met here every evening to play golf. The planters laid out a golf course, put up a small rest house and a stable to keep their horse. The relics of the rest house and the vestiges of the road they used to ride their horse-carts are visible even now.

Here, on the pinnacle of the peak, the nature reveals the picturesque beauty of the virgin sholay forest on both sides.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Edakkal Caves

13.) Mysore

The kings of the Wodeyar dynasty set the bar high for the southern cultural capital of Mysore. Ornate palaces and the Gothic St. Philomena’s Church with its 175-foot spires pack a visual punch; local institutions keep Carnatic classical music and dance in the public eye. A prominent 11th-century temple sits atop 1,000 steps on the city’s outskirts. Dress to the nines and party like a rock star in celebration of Mysore heritage during the lively Dussehra festival, held for 10 days in October/November.

Places of Interest
Somnathpur Temples
Mysore Zoo – Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
Maharajah’s Palace (Amba Vilas)

14.) Mount Abu

Situated amidst lush green, forested hills on the highest peak in the Aravali range, Mount Abu is the summer capital for the Indian state of Rajasthan. Its cool and soothing climate makes it an ideal retreat. Explore a number of Jain temples, including the Dilwara Temples, a complex carved of while marble, or visit the nearby Achalgarh fort, which houses many beautiful temples of its own.
Places of Interest
Dilwara Jain Temples
Sunset Point Mount Abu
Nakki Lake

15.) Matheran

Matheran is all about the views. Easily accessible via scenic rail from Mumbai, this refuge in the Sahyadri Hills is blissfully free of motor vehicles and affords nearly three dozen lookouts over the Western Ghats and the region’s village-dotted plains. Porcupine Point is anything but prickly—rather, it’s an ideal spot for gorgeous sunsets, especially at the aptly named Panorama Point. Avid hikers hit the densely forested and wildlife-rich route to the ruins of Prabalgad Fort.

Places of Interest
Charlotte Lake
Rambaug Point
Paymasters Park

16.) Amritsar

Amritsar is a major commercial and cultural centre in the heart of Punjab. The city is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion and is home to the Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple. Respectfully marvel at the Indian and Pakistani soldiers who march-off nightly at the Wagha Border, and at the Jallian Wala Bagh the site of the 1919 Amritsar Massacre in 1919.

Places of Interest
Darbar Sahib
Jallianwala Bagh
Harmandir Sahib

17.) Mahabaleshwar

The city of Mahabaleshwar is a pinnacle of greenery, boasting one of the only evergreen forests in the world. The landscape abounds with lush hills, valleys and lookout points such as Lodwick Point, Arthur’s Seat and Babington Point, all of which offer spectacular views. Trot along on horseback for a delightful four-legged tour of the gorgeous Venna Lake area, and savour juicy native strawberries, mulberries and corn.

Places of Interest
Venna Lake

Wilson Point (Sunrise Point)
Mahabaleshwar Temple

18.) Shimla

Snow-capped Himalayan peaks and green pastures surround Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Enjoy a heritage walk through Shimla’s Victorian-era architecture, labyrinthine bazaars and lengthy pedestrian shopping mall. Don’t cause too much trouble taking in the town from Scandal Point, a large, open square; keep in mind that Shimla was a retreat destination for Mahatma Gandhi, who frequented a Georgian mansion in Shimla’s suburbs from the mid-1930s to ’40s.

Places of Interest
Kalka – Shimla Railway
Kinnaur
Jakhu Temple

19.) Tirupati

The holy city of Tirupati draws tourists and religious pilgrims alike, who flock to the Ancient Lord Venkateswara Temple, known for its elabourate Dravidian style and gold-plated cupola. Prayers are offered daily at this popular temple, which sits high in the Tirumala hills. Several other temples dot the town, and the lush countryside contains numerous waterfalls. Tirupati is also home to a rare, naturally-occurring pre-Jurassic stone arch that is 25 feet long and 10 feet high, one of only three of these geological features in the world

Places of Interest
Tirumala Temple
Talakona Waterfall
Tirupati Temple

20.) Kashmir

The valley of Kashmir is as rich with history and political controversy as it is with culture and natural phenomena. Sample exquisitely spiced native cuisines and festive teas, then walk off your meal along the rugged trekking routes to the north. Marvel at the famous houseboats of Srinagar and take a spiritual moment to reflect at one of the many pilgrimage sites and religious shrines that dot the region. Of course, native craftsmanship makes for excellent souvenirs—carpets and textiles are an especial shopping must.
Places of Interest
Dal Lake
Mughal Gardens
Jame Mosque

21.) Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal has an endangered animal called the grizzled giant squirrel. To us, that alone is reason to book a trip ("grizzled giant squirrel" might be the best animal name ever). Perched on the woodsy southern crest of the Palani Hills, nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, this popular lakeside resort town is a magnet for nature lovers. Wander the peaceful slopes, keeping an eye out for birds, exotic flowers and, of course, grizzled giant squirrels.

Places of Interest
Kodaikanal Lake
Coakers Walk
Berijam Lake

22.) Kolkata

This former British colonial stronghold boasts evidence of over two millennia of habitation, with ornate, architecturally diverse buildings, ranging from crumbing ruins to Victorian treasures. Home to lively festivals and a vibrant artistic community, clamorous markets and packed temples, this city is crowded and polluted, but ultimately invigorating.
Places of Interest
Victoria Memorial Hall
Mother House
Kalighat Kali Temple

23.) Coorg

Omkareshwara Temple 

The misty hills, lush teakwood and sandalwood forests, and acres of tea and coffee plantations of Kodagu are, in a word, stunning. Also known as Coorg and dubbed "The Scotland of India," Kodagu is a postcard-perfect region of scattered villages and hamlets, which are the epitome of old-world charm. Kodagu is ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, angling and white-water rafting, and major festivals like Keil Poldu (worship of weapons), Cauvery Shankaramana (return of the river goddess) and the Huttari (harvest) festival are a huge draw.

Places of Interest

Brahmagiri Hill
Iruppu Falls

24.) Rishikesh

The holy city of Rishikesh, in the base of the Himalayas, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for local Hindus. Sacred rivers and mountains set the scene for yoga and reflective hikes, and rafting here is an absolute must. The Beatles got in touch with their Eastern spiritual side here, writing several songs during a 1968 stint at a local ashram.

Places of Interest
Laxman Jhula
Swarg Ashram
Neelkanth Mahadev

25.) Haridwar

The holy city of Haridwar translates to "Gateway to God," and the breathtaking city, replete with temples, is a magnet for religious pilgrims from all over the globe. Religious festivals hold even further draw, and tourists can’t helped but be compelled by the city’s aura of intense spirituality. Don’t miss the Har ki Pauri and the Chandi Devi Temple.
Places of Interest
Har ki Pauri
Chandi Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple