20 Stunning Places to Visit in North India

North India will delight you no matter what you’re looking for. From the snow capped Himalayan mountain ranges, the gushing waters of the Ganges, the heart of Thar Desert and the capital city of New Delhi, North India will set off the traveller in you with the sheer range of places it has to offer. So, if you’re looking to tour this part of India, we’ve got just the places you need to check out.

Places to Visit in North India

1. Leh Ladakh

Ladakh and its district Leh is a spot in India that is truly heaven on earth. With amazing landscapes, beautiful monasteries, interesting markets and a vibrant culture, a trip here will leave you in love with this beautiful region in North India.

A land like no other with superabundance of attractions to visit and phantasmagoric and fabulous landscapes, amazing people and culture, Ladakh is truly a heaven on Earth.

• Location: Jammu & Kashmir
• Traveller Tip: Do not forget to try the delicious street food here

2. Srinagar

Srinagar is every bit the epitome of paradise on earth. As picturesque as the most stunning painting to ever be painted, Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, lies on the banks of the Jhelum River. It has a cool, pleasant climate all year round, contributing to the perpetual influx of tourists visiting this city which offers a plethora of gorgeous scenic vistas.

• Location: Jammu & Kashmir
• Traveller Tip: April to October is the best time to visit this beautiful city  

3. Gulmarg

This is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India thanks to its beautiful landscapes and peaceful vibe. There are also good institutes where you can learn to ski and mountaineer. The best time to visit this stunning town is between October to June.  

• Location: Jammu & Kashmir
  
• Traveller Tip: Do not miss a ride on the second highest cable car in the world in Gulmarg.

4. New Delhi

If you’re in India, then you cannot miss seeing its stunning capital New Delhi. It’s has the perfect mix of modernity as well as a rich heritage. There are strong Mughal influences and a number of historic monuments. Don’t miss a trip to Chandni Chowk – a bustling market and Lodhi Gardens.

• Location: Delhi, NCR
• Traveller Tip: Points of interest include Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb and Purana Qila
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Delhi

5. Jim Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park is located at the foot of the Himalayas and offers visitors the perfect place to unwind with nature.  The park is home to the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger and also houses 50 species of trees, 580 bird species and 50 species of animals among its lush confines.

• Location: Uttarakhand
• Traveller Tip: Do make sure to go on a safari here

6. Rishikesh

Rishikesh, in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a great mix of scenic landscapes, ancient temples, cafes, ashrams and adventure activities. A popular tourist location is ideal to visit during September to November.

• Location: Uttarakhand
• Traveller Tip: Try your hand at White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox and Mountain Biking here
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Rishikesh 

7. Mussoorie

With lush green hills and snow capped mountains, Mussoorie is the perfect place to experience nature at its finest. There are adventure activities to try out, local food to sample and of course, there is the popular Mall Road that has an old world charm that captures the heart of this hill station.

• Location: Uttarakhand
• Traveller Tip: September to June offers the best weather
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Mussoorie

8. Manali

Manali has awe-inspiring views thanks to its cosy location between two snow-capped mountain ranges. Here you will find lush forests, colourful fields of flowers, temples, museums and flowing blue streams. Solang Valley is a must visit if you’re looking to do adventure sports.

• Location: Himachal Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: October to June is the best time to visit
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Manali

9. Shimla

This holiday favourite inset among lush rolling hills and vibrant greenery. Shimla is clean and well maintained and is popular with families and honeymooners. Here you must check out Mall Road, the toy train and cute cafes.  

• Location: Himachal Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: The nearest airport is Chandigarh
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Shimla

10. Dharamshala

Surrounded by the lushness of the deodar cedar trees, Dharamshala is a famous holiday destination. Dharamshala boasts of good weather and soothing locations. It is the holy residence of the Dalai Lama and is the best place to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture.

• Location: Himachal Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: Do check out the war memorial and monasteries here
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Dharamshala

11. Spiti Valley

With its rambling roads, beautiful valleys, lush greenery, snow-capped mountains and quaint villages, the Spiti Valley is the best place to head to when you want to get away from it all. It is located at an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. Other places of interest include the Dhankar Monastery and Dhankar Lake.

• Location: Himachal Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: Do not miss the mountain ropeway from Kibber to Chichum

12. Kasol

Kasol is often referred to as the Amsterdam of India thanks to the backdrop of quaint little villages, beautiful scenery and a pleasant climate. It hasn’t been ruined with urbanization which adds to its laid-back charm. Kasol has quite a few casual cafes and it’s has a vibrant flea market too where you can pick up trinkets.

• Location: Himachal Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: October to June is the best time to visit   
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Kasol

13. Chandigarh

This modern town showcases the rich heritage of Punjab. Some of the sites of interest include the beautiful Sukhna Lake set at the foothills of the Shivaliks, the rambling Rock Garden, and the Leisure Valley & Rose Garden. The local food is a must try too.

• Location: Punjab
• Traveller Tip: It can get a little hot, so we recommend you visit between August to March
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Chandigarh

14. Amritsar

This beautiful and peaceful city is home to the world famous Golden Temple. It is a popular holiday spot thanks to its great food, welcoming locals, impressive structures and spiritual places. Some of the places worth checking out include the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border.

• Location: Punjab
• Traveller Tip: Amritsar is easy to reach as it has its own airport and railway
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Amritsar

15. Agra

Agra is a destination in North India that is visited by people from across the world thanks to its iconic structure, the Taj Mahal – a symbol of eternal love. Apart from this, the Agra Fort, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula, and Fatehpur Sikri are other places worth seeing.

• Location: Uttar Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: Delhi Airport is the closest airport to Agra
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Agra

16. Lucknow

The capital of Uttar Pradesh is also known as the city of the Nawabs and its rich heritage can be seen across the city. There are a number of places to visit here including the Bara Imambara, British Residency, Chhota Imambara and Dr. Ambedkar Park.

• Location: Uttar Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: We recommend you take a heritage walk to experience the city  
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Lucknow

17. Varanasi

If you’re looking to get in touch with your spiritual side, there’s no better place to do it than Varanasi. This is the best place to calm your mind and body with the beautiful backdrop of the Ganges. Do stroll through the winding lanes and visit the historic temples such as the Dashashwamedh Ghat and Vishwanath Temple.

• Location: Uttar Pradesh
• Traveller Tip: Do not miss the stunning evening aarti at the Ganges
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Varanasi

18. Jaipur

This is fondly called the Pink City thanks to the pink hue of the buildings here. Jaipur has a lot to offer tourists including forts, monuments, temples, gardens, museums and vast market. The local cuisine is a must try too as it boasts of mouth-watering Rajasthani food.

• Location: Rajasthan
• Traveller Tip: City Palace, Amer Fort and Pink City Bazaars are places of interest
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Jaipur

19. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a city that is rich in heritage. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, a holiday here will not disappoint thanks to its stunning views and impressive architecture. It sees tourists from across the world and there are a number of modern cafes that fit right in. November and December is the best time to visit.

• Location: Rajasthan
• Traveller Tip: It is ideal to group this in with Jaipur
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Jaisalmer

20. Udaipur

This is fondly called the Venice of The East as Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes. The city boasts of a number of castles many of which have been converted into hotels, letting you have a regal experience. Some of the places you must see include City Palace, Lake Pichola and Lake Palace.

• Location: Rajasthan
• Traveller Tip: Udaipur is also a popular honeymoon destination  
• Where to Stay : Hotels in Udaipur

North India is a great area to tour when you’re visiting India. Plan a few days visiting these famous cities, hill stations and towns to get a complete taste of how diverse and vastly beautiful this stunning country is. Tell us about the places you visited and your experiences in the comments section below.