India is a country that will never cease to amaze you with its extraordinary beauty. An amalgamation of several states, India has so much to offer that planning a holiday can be a tough decision. Which is India’s most beautiful state? That’s a question that is extremely hard to answer as there are so many magnificent places to choose from.
If you are planning your next trip and asking yourself this very question, we have aimed to make the task of choosing a bit easier on you. Read our narrowed-down list of the 10 most beautiful states in India. Choose a location that suits your holiday tastes and preferences.
The Best State To Visit In India
1. Kerala
Kerala is one of the prettiest states, rightfully dubbed ‘God’s Own Country’. Here you will find pristine beaches at Kovalam, Muzhappilangad and Varkala. Besides beaches, the state also has a plethora of historical monuments, enthralling waterfalls and some breathtaking hill stations. There are also plenty of ecotourism drives conducted to promote sustainable tourism.
Places to Visit in Kerala
- Alleppey: Dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey has many backwater channels interconnected in the city where you can rent houseboats.
- Munnar: Known for its tea plantations, Munnar is one of the most visited hill stations in Kerala.
- Kumarakom: With alluring flora and fauna as well as numerous lakes, Kumarakom is one of the most serene places in Kerala
2. Rajasthan
Rajasthan will tell you stories about wars, victories, romances and men of valor. Rajasthan is the land of kings and has a rich history. You can see palaces, archaic monuments and staggering forts. It is also home to the largest Indian desert, Thar Desert, famous for its dunes and desert safaris.
Places to visit in Rajasthan
- Jaisalmer: In the heart of the Thar desert, the city reflects a golden hue from the sunlight and is nicknamed “The Golden City”.
- Jaipur: The capital of Rajasthan is home to many palaces with the City Palace and Amber Fort being the most visited.
- Jodhpur: Called the ‘Blue City’ thanks to its buildings that are painted with the colour, Jodhpur is an absolute delight to visit.
3. Goa
Goa boasts flawless beaches and mesmerizing sunsets. It is known for its local cuisine, especially seafood. There are a lot of water sports activities held here. Stroll through Goa to marvel at its Portuguese churches and diverse landscapes. It is also one of the smallest states in India and easy to fully explore.
Places to visit in Goa
- Bom Jesus Basilica: One of the oldest churches in Goa, go here to admire the architecture.
- Arambol Beach: One of the most laid-back beaches; with plenty of food options, it is perfect for a lazy day.
- Mapusa Market: Buy handicrafts, artworks, clothes and accessories. Shop for souvenirs to take back home in this market.
Also check Hotels in Goa
4. Punjab
Punjab is known for its rich and religious history, its cultural diversity and the lip-smacking Punjabi cuisine. It is also home to the iconic Golden Temple that draws devotees from all around the world. Here you will find a blend of local culture and ancient history.
Places to visit in Punjab
- Amritsar: Home to famous landmarks like the Golden Temple and the Jallianwala Bagh
- Chandigarh: Considered the most well-planned city in India, Chandigarh is also home to the famous Rock Gardens and the Leisure Valley.
- Jalandhar: One of the most ancient cities in India – full of history and culture.
5. Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh lies in the foothills of the Himalayan mountain range, and you can see the snow-capped mountains amidst the lush greenery. There are a number of great hill stations to visit. Rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, and heli-skiing are some adventure activities conducted in this state.
Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh
- Kulu: Known as the valley of the gods, Kullu is situated on the banks of the Beas River and is one of the most frequented tourist spots.
- Manali: Manali is a town famous for the plethora of sporting activities it has to offer that will certainly up your fitness quotient.
- Shimla: Once the summer capital of the Britishers ruling India, with snow-capped peaks in the backdrop, Shimla is a picture-perfect location.
6. Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is a land of spirituality. One of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, is located here and the holy Ganga river also flows through this state. The state is filled with beautiful architecture, with famous monuments such as the Qutub Minar and Chaukhandi Stupa. Ayodhya and Allahabad, two important pilgrimage sites, are located here.
Places to visit in Uttar Pradesh
- Agra: Visit famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri.
- Lucknow: The state capital and home to some exotic royal Nawabi cuisine, Lucknow is a must visit for every foodie.
- Varanasi: A holy city considered to be one of the seven places every Hindu must visit during his lifetime.
7. Gujarat
Every year Gujarat sees an inflow of tourists who visit the beaches, temples and archaeological survey sites. Gujarat also is the home to the largest protected area dedicated to Asiatic lions. The state is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi.
Places to visit in Gujarat
- Rann of Kutch: Massive salt flatlands spread across the Thar Desert, till the Arabian Sea. Also a resting spot for flamingoes that fly all the way from Siberia.
- Dwarka: On the banks of the Gomti River, this place is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- Laxmi Vilas Palace: Home to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad, it sprawls over 700 acres of land and houses other buildings such as the Moti Baug.
8. Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir is the northernmost state in India, often called a piece of heaven on earth owing to its evergreen valleys, clear blue skies and massive snow-clad mountains. The state is known for its quiet idyllic villages, gushing waterfalls and valleys. Go here to relax or trek. There are beautiful mosques and temples to explore too.
Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir
- Srinagar: The capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is known for the number of activities you can take part in, right from boating in shikaras to bird watching in a sanctuary.
- Gulmarg: Also known as ‘the meadow of flowers’, this place is a visual treat when the entire land blossoms with vibrant flowers.
- Leh: One of the most popular trekking and adventure destinations in India, Leh will mesmerize you with its sheer beauty.
9. Karnataka
The state is also called the ‘land of temples’ because of the multitude of these religious structures here. Right from hill stations to ancient temples, there is something for everyone in Karnataka. There are popular protected monuments such as the temples of Hampi. It has been ranked as the fifth most visited state by tourists in 2018.
Places to visit in Karnataka
- Coorg: Visit the coffee estates and try the lip-smacking food. Don’t forget to visit the many gorgeous waterfalls here.
- Gokarna: A famous beach town, there are also temples that draw devotees from all around.
- Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is a small village that houses some age-old monuments. Hampi is a favourite among history buffs.
10. West Bengal
West Bengal is the home to some grand mansions and British-era Palaces. Kolkata, its capital, is widely regarded as the cultural capital of India. Witness surreal landscapes and go for vibrant art and film festivals. You can also enjoy the theatre and plays.
Places to visit in West Bengal
- Darjeeling: Spread across a mountain range, you will be transported back in time when you witness the jaw-dropping locales.
- Malda: It is a city that is famous for its many archaeological sites. The city is also known for the varieties of mango it produces.
Every state in India is beautiful in its own accord, however, we have chosen a list of 10 states whose outstanding beauty will leave you speechless. Do have a look at our list and let us know of your experiences in the comments section below.