Top 15 Best Location Based In India 2023
A list of popular and well-known locations in India that are frequently visited by tourists:
- Taj Mahal, Agra
- Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur[1] is the capital city of the Indian state of Rajasthan and is also known as the “Pink City” due to the pink-colored walls of many of its buildings. It is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, culture, and architecture. The city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and is home to several historical monuments and landmarks, including the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and the Amer Fort.
The City Palace is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens that is home to several museums and is a great place to learn about the history of Jaipur and Rajasthan. The Hawa Mahal is a unique five-story structure that was built to allow royal ladies to observe the street festivals while remaining veiled. Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory that was built in the early 18th century and is still in use today.
It contains several instruments that were used to study the movements of celestial bodies and is a popular destination for science and history enthusiasts. Jaipur is also famous for its textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts, and there are several markets and bazaars where visitors can shop for these items. The city is a blend of old and new and offers visitors a unique and memorable experience of India’s rich culture and history.
Goa is a coastal state located on the western coast of India and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961 and has a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culture.
It is home to several historical landmarks, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier. The Old Goa area is also home to several other churches and cathedrals that showcase the state’s rich history and architecture.
Goa is also famous for its beaches, which offer visitors a range of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to water sports and beach parties. Some of the popular beaches in Goa include Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Anjuna Beach, and Palolem Beach.
The state is also known for its cuisine, which is a blend of Indian and Portuguese flavors. Some of the popular dishes in Goa include fish curry, vindaloo, and sorpotel. Goa is a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.
- Kerala Backwaters
The Kerala Backwaters[2] are a chain of interconnected lagoons, lakes, and canals located along the coast of the southern Indian state of Kerala.
The backwaters are a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings. The backwaters are spread across several towns and villages in Kerala and offer visitors a unique way to experience the state’s natural beauty and culture. The backwaters are home to several species of birds and fish and offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the best ways to explore the backwaters is by taking a houseboat ride, which is a popular activity among tourists. The houseboats are traditional Kettuvallams that have been converted into comfortable and modern accommodations that offer stunning views of the backwaters. Some of the popular backwater destinations in Kerala include Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, and Kasaragod.
These destinations offer visitors a range of activities, from relaxing on the houseboat and enjoying the scenery to exploring the local villages and markets. The Kerala Backwaters are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kerala, and they offer a unique and unforgettable experience of India’s natural beauty and culture.
- Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Ladakh is a region located in the northernmost part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique way of life. It is often referred to as the “Land of High Passes” and is one of the most scenic and remote regions in India.
Ladakh is home to several ancient monasteries, including the Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, and Diskit Monastery, which offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. The monasteries are also known for their stunning architecture and intricate artwork. The region is also famous for its stunning natural beauty, which includes high-altitude deserts, snow-capped peaks, and deep gorges.
Some of the popular attractions in Ladakh include Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, and the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Ladakh is also known for its unique culture and way of life. The region is home to several different ethnic groups, including the Ladakhis, Tibetans, and Muslims, who have their own distinct traditions and customs.
Visitors can experience the local culture by attending one of the region’s colorful festivals, such as the Hemis Festival or the Ladakh Festival. Overall, Ladakh is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a glimpse into India’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique way of life.
- Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and is known for its bustling streets, vibrant culture, and colonial architecture. It is one of the most populous cities in India and is often referred to as the “City of Dreams” due to its reputation as the entertainment capital of the country.
The city is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Gateway of India, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. The Gateway of India is a massive archway that was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in 1887 and is one of the busiest railway stations in India.
Mumbai is also famous for its street food, which includes local favorites like vada pav, pav bhaji, and bhel puri. Visitors can sample these dishes at one of the city’s many street food stalls or at one of the city’s iconic restaurants, such as Leopold Cafe and Cafe Mondegar.
The city is also home to several cultural attractions, including the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, which is a museum that showcases the art and history of India. Overall, Mumbai is a vibrant and diverse city that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience of India’s rich culture and history.
- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is a city located on the banks of the river Ganges in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered to be one of the holiest cities in India.
Varanasi is known for its rich spiritual and cultural heritage and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The city is home to several ghats, or steps leading down to the river, where visitors can witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that take place on the banks of the Ganges. The most famous ghat in Varanasi is the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is known for its evening aarti ceremony.
Varanasi is also known for its many temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most sacred temples in India. Other popular temples in Varanasi include the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and the Durga Temple. The city is also famous for its silk saris, which are made from locally produced silk and are renowned for their intricate designs and high quality.
Visitors can purchase these saris at one of the city’s many silk shops or at the local markets. Overall, Varanasi is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a glimpse into India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is an ancient village located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Karnataka. Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is home to several well-preserved ruins and monuments that offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history. The most famous of these monuments is the Virupaksha Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest functioning temples in India.
Other popular attractions in Hampi include the Vittala Temple, the Lotus Mahal, and the Hampi Bazaar. Hampi is also known for its stunning natural beauty, which includes rocky hills, verdant forests, and the Tungabhadra River. Visitors can explore the region’s natural beauty by hiking up one of the many hills, going on a river rafting expedition, or taking a leisurely boat ride down the Tungabhadra River.
The village is also famous for its vibrant local culture and is home to several traditional dance forms, such as the Lambani dance and the Dollu Kunitha. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending one of the region’s many festivals, such as the Hampi Utsav or the Pampapathi Fair. Overall, Hampi is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a glimpse into India’s rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty.
- Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is a hill station located in the Indian state of West Bengal, known for its stunning natural beauty and colonial-era charm.
The town is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and is renowned for its tea plantations, scenic views, and unique culture. One of the most popular attractions in Darjeeling is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train”. This historic railway line was built in the late 19th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can take a ride on the train to experience the stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding tea plantations. Darjeeling is also known for its tea plantations, which produce some of the finest teas in the world. Visitors can tour the tea plantations to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the different varieties of tea.
The town is home to several cultural attractions, including the Ghum Monastery, the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Institute of Mountaineering. These attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s unique cultural heritage. In addition to its cultural attractions, Darjeeling is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
Visitors can explore the surrounding hills and mountains on foot, or take a jeep tour to experience the region’s natural beauty. Overall, Darjeeling is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and colonial-era charm.
- Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park is a wildlife reserve located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, known for its population of Bengal tigers. The park is situated at the junction of the Aravalli and Vindhya hill ranges and is spread over an area of approximately 1,334 square kilometers.
The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, hyenas, sloth bears, and many species of birds. Visitors can explore the park on a jeep safari or a canter safari to see these animals in their natural habitats. In addition to its wildlife, Ranthambore National Park is also known for its historical landmarks, including the Ranthambore Fort and several ancient temples.
The Ranthambore Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors to the park can also enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and photography tours. The park is open to visitors from October to June, with the peak tourist season being from November to February.
Overall, Ranthambore National Park is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a mix of wildlife, history, and natural beauty. It is one of the best places in India to see Bengal tigers in their natural habitat and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur is a city located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, known for its stunning lakes, palaces, and rich cultural heritage. The city is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” due to its many lakes and waterways.
One of the most popular attractions in Udaipur is the City Palace, a stunning palace complex that was built over a period of several centuries. The palace is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles and features several stunning courtyards, gardens, and balconies. 
Udaipur is also known for its stunning lakes, including Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Jaisamand Lake. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lakes to experience their natural beauty and see the many palaces and temples that are located along their shores. The city is home to several other cultural attractions, including the Jagdish Temple, the Saheliyon-ki-Bari gardens, and the Bagore-ki-Haveli museum.
These attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. In addition to its cultural attractions, Udaipur is also known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, textile weaving, and miniature painting. Visitors can shop for these crafts in the local markets and also visit the many workshops where they are made.
Overall, Udaipur is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a mix of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and traditional crafts. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Rajasthan.
- Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore is a city located in the Indian state of Karnataka, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. The city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore and is now a popular tourist destination.
One of the most popular attractions in Mysore is the Mysore Palace, a stunning palace complex that was once the residence of the Wodeyar dynasty. The palace is a blend of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic architectural styles and features several stunning courtyards, gardens, and pavilions. The city is also known for its many temples, including the Chamundeshwari Temple, which is located on top of a hill overlooking the city.
Visitors can climb the hill to see the temple and also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Mysore is also known for its traditional crafts, such as sandalwood carving, silk weaving, and incense making. Visitors can shop for these crafts in the local markets and also visit the many workshops where they are made.
The city is home to several other cultural attractions, including the Mysore Zoo, the Jaganmohan Palace, and the St. Philomena’s Church. These attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Overall, Mysore is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a mix of stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and traditional crafts. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Karnataka.
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, off the east coast of India. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and rich marine life.
One of the most popular attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the Radhanagar Beach, which is often considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and pristine white sands, making it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The islands are also home to several other stunning beaches, such as the Vijaynagar Beach, the Kalapathar Beach, and the Corbyn’s Cove Beach.
Visitors can enjoy a range of water activities at these beaches, including swimming, surfing, and boating. The islands are also known for their rich marine life, with several species of fish, coral, and sea turtles found in the surrounding waters. Visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving to experience the underwater world up close.
- Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is a beautiful city located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India.
It is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and is also known as the “Queen of Hills”. The city is situated at an altitude of 2200 meters above sea level and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys. Shimla is a popular tourist destination and attracts a large number of visitors every year.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Shimla include:
- The Mall Road: It is the main street in Shimla and is famous for its shops, restaurants, and colonial architecture.
- The Ridge: It is a large open space in the center of Shimla and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
- Jakhoo Hill: It is the highest peak in Shimla and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
- Christ Church: It is a beautiful church located on the Mall Road and is known for its neo-Gothic architecture.
- Shimla State Museum: It is a popular museum that showcases the history and culture of Himachal Pradesh.
Apart from these, Shimla is also famous for its adventure sports like trekking, skiing, and mountaineering. The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air and can be easily reached from major cities in India.
- Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is a city located in the Indian state of Punjab, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.
The city is home to the famous Golden Temple, a Sikh gurdwara that is considered one of the most spiritual places in the world. The Golden Temple is a stunning complex made of gold and marble, surrounded by a large man-made lake. Visitors can enter the temple complex and witness the Sikh prayer rituals and enjoy a communal meal at the langar (community kitchen).
Amritsar is also known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Indian and Pakistani flavors. Visitors can sample local dishes such as Amritsari kulcha, tandoori chicken, and lassi. Another popular attraction in Amritsar is the Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden that is the site of a tragic massacre in 1919, where hundreds of unarmed civilians were killed by the British Indian Army.
The garden now serves as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the massacre. The city is also home to several other cultural attractions, including the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, the Durgiana Temple, and the Wagah Border, where visitors can witness the daily flag-lowering ceremony between India and Pakistan. Overall, Amritsar is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors a mix of spiritual experiences, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Punjab.
References
- ^ Jaipur (en.wikipedia.org)
- ^ Kerala Backwaters (en.wikipedia.org)