India is a nation of contrasts, both aesthetically pleasing and genuinely authentic, with both traditional origins and modern evolution. There are plenty of best places to go in India in 2023.
India’s borders are home to more than 20 recognized languages, several religions, and a wide range of culinary traditions. Travel is essential if you want to understand the depth of Indian culture and history.
So, take a look at the below-mentioned list of the best 15 places that you should visit in 2023.
1. The Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple is the most sacred Sikh shrine, and it is located in Amritsar in northwest India. It is also known as the Harmandir Sahib. The soul-nourishing retreat that combines spirituality and history is a must-see place in India.
This temple is genuinely golden; it was constructed more than 400 years ago, and Sikhs from all over India and the rest of the world frequently visit. The temple, which is covered in pure gold and enthroned in the middle of the Nectar Basin, is a real symbol of openness to everybody, regardless of their origins and beliefs.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is a charming hill town in Northern India that is bordered by forests and imposing mountains and the River Beas runs through it. It is one of the top vacation spots in India for all tourists, from thrill-seekers to honeymooners, because of its alluring blend of nature, tranquility, and adventure.
Manali is the center for adventure sports activities including river rafting, paragliding, trekking, and more because of the Beas River flowing through the town and the Himalayan peaks surrounding it.
The closest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhunter, which is 50 kilometers from Manali. There are flights to and from Jubbar-hatti (Shimla), Chandigarh, and Delhi. The flight to Kullu-Manali Airport from Delhi takes one and a half hours.
3. Mysore (Myusuru)
Mysore, which blends the ancient and the new, has evolved from being a royal city—which it still is—to become a serious IT powerhouse. It was built in the 14th century and serves as the capital of the kingdom of Mysore as well as the royal residence for the Wodeyar family.
Don’t forget to reward your sweet craving with some delectable Mysore Pak on your trip to this city. You shouldn’t skip the amazing Devaraja Market if you’re in Mysore. It’s an outdoor attraction on Dhanvantari Road where you can get tea and then peruse vendors selling food or sandalwood carvings.
4. Ooty
The queen of hill stations, Ooty, welcomes you with mesmerizing meadows, cool weather, and a large variety of tourist attractions to explore and enjoy. Every tourist destination in Ooty guarantees a distinctive and exciting experience that will leave you in amazement for several days.
Tea plantations are Ooty’s claim to fame. With options including dust and leaf, black, green, black, and white variations, as well as masala, jasmine, cardamom, and even chocolate, connoisseurs will have a wide variety to pick from.
The place has a variety of budget-friendly food joints that will satisfy your palate with everything from spiciness to velvety sweet dishes.
The train ride up here, which offers a breathtaking view of the romantic surroundings, is one of Ooty’s most alluring attractions for couples.
5. Leh, Ladakh
Ladakh is one of the most beautiful areas in northern India, including craggy snow-capped peaks, blue lakes, and vibrant monasteries. The picturesque city of Leh is home to the 17th-century Leh Palace and is filled with whitewashed buildings and stupas. The closest Buddhist monasteries to Leh are Shey, Thiksey, and Hemis, and the latter is where the vibrant Hemis Festival is held (usually in July).
One of the best seasons to travel to Leh Ladakh is during May because there are comparatively fewer tourists there.
6. Chennai
It is the capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the southern reaches of the nation due to its ancient temples, vibrant art, natural beauties, and thriving culinary scene.
Chennai is the guardian of South Indian art, culture, and traditions. From the magnificent traditional dance form of Bharatnatyam to the robust flavors of its signature food, from the glossy silk sarees traded here to the beautiful temples and cathedrals. All are the main attractions for tourists. The city makes an excellent starting point for excursions to various parts of Tamil Nadu.
7. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is one of India’s most well-known hill towns and a gateway to the northeastern state of Sikkim. It is also regarded as one of the greatest locations for honeymoon planning in India.
Darjeeling is a common name in the homes of people who adore tea more than anything else. It is thought to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Further, it is well-known throughout the world for its various tea varieties and the Tibetan medicine training center.
No doubt, Darjeeling is the perfect blend of urban culture and unspoiled natural beauty, perched in the country’s extreme north between Nepal and Bhutan.
8. Shimla
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With its churches & cathedrals, colonial-era cottages & bungalows, and natural appeal, Shimla is one of the most well-liked hill stations in India and one of the finest places to go with family in May in India. The town has structures in the colonial style, which gives it a unique appearance. The village is renowned for offering enjoyable hillside walks surrounded by pine and oak woodlands.
Nothing quite compares to Shimla when it comes to delectable food of all kinds. There is plenty in Shimla for guests from well-established roadside eateries to cafes with tons of character and popular food to fine-dining restaurants. Therefore, do not pass up some of the delectable foods they have to offer you on your visit to this lovely state.
9. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur is brimming with ancient forts and royal palaces, many of which are painted in terracotta shades, earning it the nickname Pink City. One of the best locations in India for a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park, which is only 190 kilometers from Jaipur.
The gorgeous Jal Mahal or Lake Palace is among Jaipur’s most breathtaking sites. The bright blue of the water and sand-colored stone walls create a beautiful contrast.
You can find all of the traditional foods in Jaipur, including the well-known Rajasthani curry, Gatte ki Sabji, Mangori, Ker Sangari, and Pakodi. The Rajasthani people eat these dishes as a regular part of their daily meals.
10. Pondicherry (Puducherry)
Pondicherry, formerly known as Puducherry, was the largest French colony in India. It is a fascinating tiny town with enough attractions to enchant visitors.
You can see and feel the fusion of French and Tamil cultures across the city in everything from the style of life to the creative and culinary traditions.
The beaches in Pondicherry are excellent for both relaxing and engaging in thrilling water sports. Beaches are uncrowded, provide beautiful scenery, especially at sunrise and sunset, and are places to engage in water sports like swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.
The best methods to explore this charming tiny town are on foot or by hiring a bike or motorcycle. You might momentarily question if you are in France or India as you move around, especially in the town’s ancient French section.
It’s fair to say that the architecture, which is primarily French in style, is intriguing. There are lots of houses with gray paint, too. No, people are not pessimistic; rather, the gray color is meant to signify a connection to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
11. Lonavala
Lonavala is another well-liked tourism destination in India. It is the most visited hill station in Maharashtra and a well-liked location for outdoor activities including camping and trekking. Tourists are drawn to it by its attractiveness. It is a must-see location for all nature enthusiasts because it is surrounded by stunning waterfalls and woodlands.
Lonavala, sometimes referred to as the “Jewel of Sahyadri,” is endowed with lush vegetation, sprawling meadows, breathtaking waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and ancient caves. The three magnificent rock-cut caverns in this hill town—Karla, Bhaja, and Bedse—are among its top attractions.
12. Ranikhet, Uttrakhand
Ranikhet, a charming cantonment hill town in Uttarakhand, is also called Queen’s Meadow. It is thought to be the home of Kumaon’s Queen Padmini. The colonial beauty of this tranquil little hill town is still evoked by several historic churches, mall roads, and heritage hotels from the Raj era.
This adorable hill town has a very tranquil atmosphere and a stunning view of the majestic Himalayas. It has some of the most exquisite gardens scattered around with apple orchards, apricots, and pine trees. Additionally, there are thick forests and cascading waterfalls that enchant tourists with their unending beauty.
13. Gangtok
Gangtok is also known as the “land of monasteries.” You cannot afford to miss it because it has become a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site and is home to some of India’s best monasteries. One of the greatest monasteries in the nation is without a doubt the Rumtek monastery.
This stunning hill town is situated between peaks and clouds. Additionally, it serves as a base for numerous trekkers who hike up to the Himalayan peaks.
14. Assam
Be prepared to be awed by the scenery, wildlife, and plants of the Dibru Saikhowa National Park. Without a steaming mug of tea, life is inconceivable to the typical Assamese. Any time of the day is a good time for a cup of tea.
Numerous books and films have described and complemented Assam’s tea gardens. Therefore, when visiting Assam, make sure to stay on or close to a tea estate, which is located in upper Assam.
The indigenous silk variants known as eri and muga from Assam are also well-known. Mekhela sador, garments made from these silks, are a staple of the state’s traditional wardrobe.
15. Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal is one of the most alluring locations in all of India with its immaculate white facades, Mughal architectural style, cross-shaped canals, and lush gardens surrounding it.
Shah Jahan, the emperor, erected this monument of white marble as a tribute to his third wife. It is located in the center of Agra, a city in northern India, and is the most well-known and often visited monument.
Moreover, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Final Thoughts
India is a country rich in culture, heritage, and picturesque locations. Here, we’ve listed all the top locations you should visit in India in 2023. These locations are ideal for everyone.
So, why are you still waiting? Pack your luggage and travel to your chosen location with your loved ones, friends, or partner.
