21 Best Places to Visit in North India 2024

Ready to uncover the wonders of North India? Imagine stepping into a world where every corner tells a story, from the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra to the peaceful ghats of Varanasi and the snowy peaks of Kashmir. North India is a palette of experiences waiting to color your memories.

Whether it’s feeling the pulse of Delhi’s streets, seeking tranquility in Dharamshala, or embracing the royal charm of Jaipur and Udaipur, this guide is your ticket to an adventure filled with beauty, mystery, and excitement.

Dive into the serene beauty of the Valley of Flowers, take a walk on the wild side in Jim Corbett National Park, or find peace in the spiritual vibes of Rishikesh.

From famous landmarks to hidden gems, we’re about to unfold the best of North India, ensuring your journey is filled with captivating moments, comfortable stays, and tips to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Let’s start this amazing journey together!

Here is the list of the 21 Best Places to Visit in North India:

1. Agra

It is a fabulous destination to go to, so if you want to see a sneak peek into Architectural History. This city will give you the benefit of watching the Taj Mahal and the banks of the river Yamuna in the same place.

Places like the Taj Mahal, the Seven Wonders of the World, the Red Fort, and many more amazing historical monuments. However, you will come to know about many influential tales of the Mughals and other kings who ruled over the past.

How to Reach: Easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Agra Airport, and Agra Cantt is the main railway station.

Things to Do: Visit the Taj Mahal, explore Agra Fort, and shop for marble crafts.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Taj Mahotsav in February.

Main Attractions:

• Taj Mahal: The iconic marble mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
• Agra Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this red sandstone fort offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal.
• Mehtab Bagh: A garden complex offering a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal, especially at sunset.

Travel Tips: Visit the Taj Mahal early in the morning to avoid crowds. Hire a guide for a deeper understanding of the historical significance of these sites.

2. Rishikesh

This destination comes under the Chardham. The holiest city in India, also known as the yoga capital of our loved nation. Every pilgrim will make you fall in love with the spiritual city. This city worships the river Ganga, and this river also has one adventure face for river rafting.

Despite this, the destination is crowded with people. Although in between all this, if you are searching for peace, this city offers you many ashrams and holy places.

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How to Reach: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest. Rishikesh is well-connected by road and has its own railway station.

Things to Do: River rafting, yoga, and attending the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

Best Time to Visit: September to November, March to April.

Must Attend the Festival: International Yoga Festival in March.

Main Attractions:

• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Suspension bridges offering picturesque views of the Ganges River.
• Triveni Ghat: Attend the evening Ganga Aarti, a spiritual experience not to be missed.
• River Rafting: Rishikesh is famous for white-water rafting on the Ganges.

Travel Tips: Rishikesh is also a hub for yoga and meditation retreats. If you’re interested, plan a stay at an ashram.

3. Kashmir

Snowy mountains and wonderful lakes were covered by clouds which creates an effortlessly beautiful landscape and a memorable picture in your mind. If you want to describe this place in your own words and want to give it a name, then it will be famous by the name Kashmir.

How to Reach: Srinagar Airport is the main gateway. Also accessible by road via the Jammu-Srinagar highway.

Things to Do: Shikara ride on Dal Lake, visit Mughal Gardens and ski in Gulmarg.

Best Time to Visit: April to October for summer, December to February for snow.

Must Attend the Festival: Tulip Festival in April.

Main Attractions:

• Dal Lake: Enjoy a shikara ride or stay on a houseboat.
• Gulmarg: Famous for skiing and the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world.
• Pahalgam: Known for its scenic beauty, rivers, and valleys.

Travel Tips: Kashmir experiences political tensions at times, so it’s advisable to check the current situation before planning your visit.

4. Delhi

The capital of India will give you the Indian vibe. You will see the vibration of medieval India. The historical monuments like Qutab Minar, and Red Fort will tell you the tales themselves.

Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and will grab your attention immensely. This city is a perfect blend of modern India with the reflection of cultural heritage.

Read also: Where to Go Near Chandigarh in October: Must-Visit Places

How to Reach: Indira Gandhi International Airport, major railway stations like New Delhi Railway Station, and well-connected roads.

Things to Do: Visit historical sites like Red Fort, and Qutub Minar, and enjoy street food.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Republic Day Parade in January.

Main Attractions:

• Red Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of India’s rich history.
• India Gate: A war memorial located in the heart of the city.
• Qutub Minar: The tallest brick minaret in the world, another UNESCO site.

Travel Tips: Delhi can be overwhelming due to traffic and crowds. Plan your sightseeing early in the day and consider using the Metro for easy transportation.

5. Vrindavan

This holy place is situated near the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh. This magnificent place is famous for the dance of Lord Krishna and Radha. The Keshi Ghats are most famous among the other Ghats where they both use to meet.

The Madan Mohan temple represents the early presence of the famous lost Krishna and the symbol of their worship. This place will bring you close to your destiny and clear your vision towards life.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Agra. Vrindavan is well-connected by road and rail, with Mathura as the nearest major railway station.

Things to Do: Visit Krishna temples, explore Banke Bihari Temple, and witness the Holi celebrations.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Holi in March.

Main Attractions:

• Banke Bihari Temple: One of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Krishna.
• ISKCON Temple: A modern temple known for its spiritual atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
• Prem Mandir: A massive, beautifully lit temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna.

Travel Tips: Vrindavan gets very crowded during festivals like Holi and Janmashtami, so plan accordingly if you wish to visit during these times.

View the Package Mathura Vrindavan One Tour from Delhi by Car

6. Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, located at the foot of the Ganges River. There is something magical and historic about Varanasi that leaves no one indifferent.

One of the 7 sacred cities of Hinduism is dedicated to the god Shiva. Along the Ganges are more than 90 palaces, preceded by ghats, great staircases leading directly into the water where the city’s social and spiritual life takes place. Every Hindu must visit Varanasi at least once in their lifetime and bathe in the Ganges River’s sacred waters.

Read also: Cómo planificar un viaje a Ayodhya desde Delhi

Main Attractions:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Witness the evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing spiritual ceremony.
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Best experienced at sunrise for a serene view of the ghats and temples.

Travel Tips: Varanasi is a spiritual city with narrow, crowded streets. Stay in accommodation close to the ghats for easy access.

7. Dharamshala

When you want to travel to have fun and also want to experience spirituality at the same time, then you need to have a look at this particular place. Dharamshala, the Tibetan Charisma. This destination is Tibetan in the Himalayan range.

If you visit Dharamshala then you also have the opportunity to visit Triund. Triund is a plausible hiking route for all ages.

How to Reach: Gaggal Airport is the nearest. Also accessible by road and the nearest major railhead is in Pathankot.

Things to Do: Visit the Dalai Lama Temple, trek to Triund, and explore McLeod Ganj.

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.

Must Attend the Festival: Tibetan New Year in February/March.

Main Attractions:

• McLeod Ganj: The seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile and home to the Dalai Lama.
• Bhagsu Waterfall: A scenic spot near the Bhagsunath Temple, popular for treks.
• Triund Trek: A moderate trek offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range.

Travel Tips: Dharamshala is a center for Tibetan culture and Buddhism, so make time to visit monasteries and learn about the local culture.

8. Kullu Manali

This place is a gateway to heaven, on the other hand, it is also named a hill resort destination. I can bet you that in winter your heart will fall for Manali after looking at the site and seeing the fluffy snow and the sky-touching mountains. It has a fabulous ski destination.

How to Reach: Bhuntar Airport near Kullu. Well-connected by road from Delhi and Chandigarh.

Things to Do: Trekking, paragliding, and visiting the Hadimba Temple.

Best Time to Visit: May to July and December to January for snow.

Must Attend the Festival: Dussehra in October.

Main Attractions:

• Solang Valley: Known for adventure sports like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing.
• Rohtang Pass: Offers breathtaking views and snow activities (check for accessibility).
• Manikaran Sahib: A pilgrimage site famous for its hot springs.

Travel Tips: Manali is a year-round destination but gets crowded during peak seasons. Book your accommodation and activities in advance.

9. Auli

If you love skiing, this is the place for you. You may have heard about this place earlier also from the sky-scratching mountains and the beautiful Himalayan ranges.

Auli is located in the Garhwal Himalayan snow-clad mountain range of Uttarakhand. This is an attractive tourist destination with many cool packages. This offbeat tourist destination is also known for its huge amount of artificial lakes. Read Also: Top 10 North India Places to Visit in August.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Dehradun. Auli is accessible by road and cable car from Joshimath.

Things to Do: Skiing, visiting Gurso Bugyal, and enjoying the cable car ride.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for skiing, April to June for summer.

Must Attend the Festival: Not specific, but the skiing season is like a long festival itself.

Main Attractions:

• Skiing: Auli is one of the top ski destinations in India.
• Auli Artificial Lake: One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, offering stunning views.
• Gurson Bugyal: A meadow offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

Travel Tips: Auli is best visited in winter for skiing. If visiting in summer, enjoy the trekking trails and cable car rides.

10. Udaipur

One of the most Romantic places in north India is Udaipur. The stunning and eye-catching location present in Udaipur will blow your mind. The royal place is filled with great historical buildings and several beautiful lakes.

The magical combination of lakes and buildings, lakes and gardens will give your eyes immense pleasure. The Lake Palace, the Lake Garden is an amazing place to visit. Among all these Saheliyon Ki Bari and the Bagore Ki Haveli are the two most popular places to visit. Also, read 15 Famous Destinations to Visit in North India in October.

How to Reach: Maharana Pratap Airport is the nearest. Well-connected by road and rail.

Things to Do: Boat ride in Lake Pichola, visit City Palace, and explore the old city.

Best Time to Visit: September to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Mewar Festival in March/April.

Main Attractions:

• City Palace: A sprawling palace complex on the banks of Lake Pichola.
• Lake Pichola: Enjoy a boat ride, especially at sunset, to see the city’s skyline.
• Jag Mandir: A beautiful island palace in Lake Pichola, known for its serene ambiance.

Travel Tips: Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes” and is perfect for a romantic getaway. Explore the local markets for traditional Rajasthani crafts.

11. Jaipur

The whole of Jaipur city has pink-colored walls, which give a pinkish appearance; therefore, the city is also called by the name of the pink city. The presence of eye-catching palaces gives the city another name the city of palaces. The movie ‘The Best and Exotic Marigold Hotel.’ Makes the city more popular. Although before this movie Jaipur is the most visited city in Rajasthan.

How to Reach: Jaipur International Airport, well-connected by road and rail.

Things to Do: Explore Amber Fort, and City Palace, and enjoy Rajasthani cuisine.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Jaipur Literature Festival in January.

Main Attractions:

• Amber Fort: A majestic fort offering elephant rides and stunning views of Maota Lake.
• Hawa Mahal: Also known as the “Palace of Winds,” it’s an iconic pink sandstone structure.
• Jantar Mantar: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is an astronomical observatory built in the 18th century.

Travel Tips: Jaipur is part of the Golden Triangle, so it’s well connected with Delhi and Agra. Plan your visit to cover the key sites efficiently.

12. Leh, Ladakh

This place is also known as heaven on earth. The icy Glaciers and the peak mountains increase the attractiveness of the place. This place has the Karakoram range in the south and the great Himalayan ranges in the north. It is my favorite place for hiking and trekking.

How to Reach: Leh Airport is the main gateway. Accessible by road via the Manali-Leh Highway or the Srinagar-Leh Highway.

Things to Do: Visit Pangong Lake, explore Leh Palace, and trek in the Hemis National Park.

Best Time to Visit: June to September for the best weather conditions.

Must Attend the Festival: Hemis Festival in June or July, showcasing local culture and traditions.

Main Attractions:

• Pangong Lake: A stunning high-altitude lake known for its changing colors.
• Nubra Valley: Famous for its sand dunes, Bactrian camels, and the Diskit Monastery.
• Magnetic Hill: A natural phenomenon where vehicles appear to defy gravity.

Travel Tips: Leh is at a high altitude, so allow time to acclimatize. The region offers various adventure activities like trekking, biking, and river rafting.

13. Mathura

One of the oldest cities of all time, Mathura. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. You will come to know the whole lifecycle of Lord Krishna by visiting a particular place. There are more than 25 Ghats near the holy river the Yamuna, where Lord Krishna used to perform his Leela’s. You can also visit the palace of Kans, the one who tried to kill Lord Krishna.

The city will take you on the journey of life, the pilgrims will take you closer to spirituality.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Agra, but it’s most easily accessible by road and rail from Delhi and Agra.

Things to Do: Visit Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, and Dwarkadhish Temple, and experience the Holi and Janmashtami celebrations.

Best Time to Visit: October to March; Holi in March for a unique experience.

Must Attend the Festival: Janmashtami, celebrating Lord Krishna’s birthday, with grandeur and devotion.

Main Attractions:

• Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: The birthplace of Lord Krishna, a major pilgrimage site.
• Dwarkadhish Temple: Known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant festivals.
• Yamuna River Ghats: Take a boat ride on the Yamuna River, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Travel Tips: Mathura and Vrindavan are closely connected and can be visited together. Plan your visit during festivals like Janmashtami or Holi for a more immersive experience.

14. Parvati Valley

Destination for every monthly vacation should be among the snow-capped mountains, and the blue sky, which must be filled with white cotton-like clouds in such a way that it gives the appearance of the beautiful art of life with the sprinkle of cold wind which brings peace to you.

How to Reach: Bhuntar Airport near Kullu is the closest, with access by road to Kasol, Manikaran, and other towns in the valley.

Things to Do: Explore Kasol, visit Manikaran Sahib, trek to Kheerganga, and relax by the Parvati River.

Best Time to Visit: April to June for pleasant weather; October to November for less crowd.

Must Attend the Festival: Not specific, but the valley is known for its serene beauty and the vibrant culture of its small towns.

Main Attractions:

• Kasol: A popular base for treks, known for its scenic beauty and laid-back vibe.
• Kheerganga Trek: A trek offering hot springs and stunning views of the valley.
• Manikaran Sahib: A pilgrimage site famous for its hot springs and religious significance.

Travel Tips: Parvati Valley is ideal for those looking for trekking, nature walks, and experiencing the local Himachali culture.

Read also: North India November Getaway: Best Places to Visit

Read also Top 10 Most Beautiful Valleys in India

15. Valley of Flowers

This amazing valley of flowers is considered a UNESCO site that is why people would not get a chance to camp here easily. You will completely get enough time for hiking, as it will take six hours of hiking approximately from one side. The base camp will start from Govind Ghats or the Joshimath.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Dehradun, then drive to Govindghat and trek to the valley.

Things to Do: Trekking in the UNESCO World Heritage site, spotting exotic flora and fauna, and visiting Hemkund Sahib.

Best Time to Visit: July to September when the flowers are in full bloom.

Must Attend the Festival: Not specific, but the blooming season is a natural festival of colors.

Main Attractions:

• Floral Meadows: The valley is famous for its vibrant flowers, including rare and endangered species.
• Himalayan Views: Stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Nanda Devi.
• Trekking: The trek to the valley is a moderate one, passing through beautiful landscapes.

Travel Tips: The Valley of Flowers is accessible only via trekking. The valley is in full bloom during the monsoon season, so be prepared for wet weather.

View more details of Uttarakhand’s stunning Valley of Flowers open to tourists

16. Jaisalmer

This city is located in Rajasthan and covered with dunes which give a golden appearance, that is why the city is called the golden city of India. Thar the great Indian desert is one of the most existing destinations to visit. Sam Sand Dunes is one of the routes for camel rides which is very popular among tourists.

How to Reach: Jodhpur Airport is the nearest major airport. Jaisalmer is also well-connected by road and has its own railway station.

Things to Do: Camel safari in the Thar Desert, visit Jaisalmer Fort, and explore the Havelis.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Jaisalmer Desert Festival in February, showcasing Rajasthani folk culture and arts.

Main Attractions:

• Jaisalmer Fort: A living fort with shops, hotels, and ancient havelis within its walls.
• Sam Sand Dunes: Experience the Thar Desert with a camel safari and enjoy the cultural performances in the evening.
• Patwon Ki Haveli: A group of five havelis known for their intricate architecture and historical significance.

Travel Tips: Jaisalmer is known as the “Golden City” for its yellow sandstone architecture. Combine your visit with a desert camping experience for a unique adventure.

17. Jodhpur

Jodhpur, the sun city is one of the most popular cities in Rajasthan. The most satisfying and beautiful sunset is seen in this city. This city is also famous for another name Blue City.

You will get a chance to see the massive palace near the 15th century, The Mehrangarh Fort, The Umaid Bhawan Palace, and many more. The hot and dazzling Thar desert is also waiting for you here. To View, the details of Jodhpur tour packages click here…

Main Attractions:

• Mehrangarh Fort: One of the largest forts in India, offering panoramic views of the “Blue City”.
• Umaid Bhawan Palace: A luxurious palace, part of which is now a hotel, with a museum showcasing royal artifacts.
• Jaswant Thada: A beautiful marble cenotaph near Mehrangarh Fort, often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of Marwar”.

Travel Tips: Jodhpur is known for its blue-painted houses, especially in the old city near Mehrangarh Fort. Explore the local markets for traditional handicrafts and textiles.

18. Gulmarg

This place is situated near Srinagar in the great Himalayan ranges. This place is divided into 3 regions Jammu, Ladakh, and Kashmir. You will be wondering, knowing that this land is also famous with the name Switzerland of India.

People usually give their reviews as they feel blessed when they visit there. The place contains an amazing piece of nature’s beauty, with an eye-catching and the most soothing atmosphere.

How to Reach: Jodhpur has its own airport, and it’s also well-connected by road and rail.

Things to Do: Visit Mehrangarh Fort, explore the blue city, and try local cuisine.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

Must Attend the Festival: Marwar Festival in October, celebrating the heroes of Rajasthan.

Main Attractions:

• Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable cars in the world, offering stunning views and access to skiing areas.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: Gulmarg is a premier destination for winter sports in India.
• Alpather Lake: A beautiful lake at the base of the Apharwat peaks, accessible via a short trek.

Travel Tips: If visiting in winter, book your skiing or snowboarding lessons in advance. The area can get crowded during peak season, so plan your trip accordingly.

To learn more about Gulmarg tour packages, click here…

19. Shimla

If you want to plan your trip to a hill station, among the snow-capped mountains and cold winds then I insist you start your trip to Shimla. If you are the kind of person who loves to travel all across the globe and visit as many beautiful places as you can then you cannot miss Kashmir at any cost.

You will feel amazed by knowing that here we are going to discuss the details. Therefore, you must read the article till the end to get the details

How to Reach: Srinagar Airport is the nearest, followed by a drive to Gulmarg.

Things to Do: Skiing, gondola rides for Himalayan views, and visiting Alpather Lake.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for snow sports; March to June for greenery.

Must Attend the Festival: Not specific, but winter sports events are major attractions.

Main Attractions:

• The Ridge: The heart of Shimla, known for its open space, views, and colonial architecture.
• Mall Road: A popular shopping street with cafes, shops, and old-world charm.
• Jakhoo Temple: Located on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, offering panoramic views of the city.

Travel Tips: Shimla is a popular hill station, so book accommodations well in advance during peak seasons. Explore nearby attractions like Kufri and Mashobra for a quieter experience.

20. Jim Corbett National Park

This place is famous for its tiger reserves. People like to visit this national park, especially during the summer. A perfect place for Safari on vacations with family or with friends.

This national park situated in Uttarakhand is a small part of Corbett National Park, which is one of the largest tiger reserves in India. This forest has a rich variety of flora and fauna, with various wildlife species such as tiger, leopard, elephant, bear, and many more.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, with Ramnagar being the closest railway station.

Things to Do: Wildlife safaris to see tigers, elephants, and other animals; visit Corbett Waterfall; and enjoy river rafting in the Kosi River.

Best Time to Visit: November to June for safari; the park is partially open all year.

Must Attend the Festival: Not specific, but wildlife enthusiasts might enjoy the different seasons for varying experiences.

Main Attractions:

• Wildlife Safari: The park is famous for its Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species.
• Corbett Museum: Learn about the history of the park and the life of Jim Corbett, the famous hunter-turned-conservationist.
• Garjia Temple: A scenic temple located on a large rock in the middle of the Kosi River.

Travel Tips: Safaris are best experienced early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Book your safari and accommodations in advance, as the park can get crowded during peak seasons.

21. Nainital

It is located in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas. Nainital, an enchanting hill station has the most loved resorts all over the hill station. To see the eye-catching landscape of the Nainital, hundreds of tourists wait there daily impatiently.

The view which covers the lake cannot be described by only words they can be only experienced.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar. Nainital is well-connected by road, and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam.

Things to Do: Boating on Naini Lake, cable car ride to Snow View, and explore Mall Road.

Best Time to Visit: March to June; October to December.

Must Attend the Festival: Nanda Devi Mela, celebrating the goddess of the region, is held in September.

Main Attractions:

• Naini Lake: The heart of Nainital, offering boating and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
• Naina Devi Temple: A popular religious site located near Naini Lake.
• Snow View Point: Accessible by cable car, it offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Travel Tips: Nainital can get crowded during summer vacations, so plan your visit during the shoulder seasons for a quieter experience. Explore nearby attractions like Bhimtal and Sattal for more scenic spots.

Check out the Mukteshwar & Nainital Tour Package for 4 nights and 5 days.

CONCLUSION

If you are also planning to visit North India then the Valley of Flowers and want to experience heaven on earth, then I am sure that this article must have helped you a lot in describing the places for you.