The northern part of India has historic places, rich culture, and natural beauty. A land adorned with majestic mountains, scattered temples, and bustling cities has something for each type of traveler. In this guide, we have analyzed the 10 top tourist places in North India that you should visit. The beauty and enchantment of all these sights bring alive the grandeur of architecture, deep-seated heritage, and flamboyant historical events, cobbled up, catering to some of the top landscapes in North India.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one such iconic place to visit in Goa. Old Goa is famous for its baroque architecture and archaic significance. This church holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier who is a saint from the Portuguese era which makes this a very important pilgrimage site for Christians all over the world. Known for its beautiful artwork and intricately designed interior, the Basilica gives a glimpse of the region's rich past during Portuguese rule. Plan your next journey via the Manohar International Airport Goa, which is well connected with major cities, and visit a place rich in history, architecture, and great culture.
When we talk about some of the places to visit in North India, Taj Mahal can’t be missed. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, in the loving memory of his life and wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj is a white marble mausoleum located in Agra. The Taj Mahal is famously known as the symbol of love and an iconic Mughal architecture. The grand dome, the Mughal-style inlay work, and landscaped gardens make it the top tourist place in North India. This UNESCO World Heritage Site truly comes alive with a golden shade that sets in during sunrise and sunset.
Popularly known as the Pink City for its unique, colorful seventeenth-century old palaces in town, still retain walls that include natural colors like red and terracotta from Mandana stone. Jaipur is an abode to royal history and rich culture. The Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and the majestic Amber Fort are two attractions in North India you wouldn’t want to miss while taking a trip to the northern part of India.
Varanasi, the oldest livable city in the world, is a major spiritual and culture-oriented North India place to see. This is a place where one can see people of all shapes and sizes; it remains on the bank of the mighty river Ganges. The ghats (steps down to the river) are particularly interesting, and evenings see hundreds of thousands descend them for the melodic Ganga Aarti function. This small holy town with narrow lanes spotted by ancient temples is one of the best places to visit in North India.
The national capital, Delhi, is a tale of the past, encapsulating India’s heritage. A popular North India tourist spot for tourism, Delhi has plenty to offer including a multitude of tourist places. The architectural grandeur of the Mughal Dynasty can be seen in Old Fort, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, and more. Other famous landmarks are India Gate, Lotus Temple, and Akshardham Temple. You can experience the hustle and bustle in one part, shop for local wares in another part, or just indulge your inner foodie as you stroll through lively markets in Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place. Delhi attains its place in all North Indian tourist destinations because of Delhi's rich history and cosmopolitan vibe.
Golden Temple, officially known as Harmandir Sahib, is one of the main attractions in north India and a tranquil spot with a divine environment. A splash of sanctity around the golden monument is a true treasure. Amritsar is also home to Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial site of the unarmed Indian civilian massacre by British forces in 1919. The city is also known for the Wagah Border ceremony, a border exercise closing off the India-Pakistan line that visitors visit from surrounding areas and as far away as Europe.
Manali is a famous hill station and popular place to go in North India. Spectacularly carved into the form of mountain recesses amidst snow-capped peaks and wooded forest land, Manali is a much sought-after destination with its stunning natural beauty. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley are the perfect places for skiing, paragliding, and trekking. The town itself is dotted with cozy cafes, temples, and local markets. Get into the tourist spirit by visiting Hidimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple in Manali while taking a dip into Vashisht hot springs.
Rishikesh and Haridwar are two of the most popular North India tourist destinations. Rishikesh, apart from being the Yoga Capital of the World, is also known for its spiritual vibes which have been attracting seekers for ages. The city is known for the ashrams, yoga retreats, and adventure sports like white-water rafting and bungee jumping. The famous suspension bridges Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula are key landmarks here. If you are in Rishikesh, consider visiting Haridwar, which is a short drive away and can be seen within a few hours. Highlights include the ghats of this sacred city and witnessing the evening Aarti at the famous and mesmerizing ghat, Har Ki Pauri, where hundreds to thousands of devotees assemble every day for Ganga snan (bath) and prime worship rituals.
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, tops any list related to the North India tourist spots. Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla is perched in colonial history with its tales from the Raj reverberating through lanes and gabled bungalows. Some of the popular places to visit in Shimla are The Ridge, Mall Road, and Christ Church. Hop onto the historic Kalka-Shimla toy train that also leads to a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a memorable scenic ride. Home to natural beauty along with a lot of adventure outings, Kufri and Chail are also alluring destinations in the vicinity.
Known as the Venice of the East, Udaipur is a beautiful city surrounded by scenic lakes and majestic palaces. Lake Pichola is a must-visit, coupled with the spectacular sight of the Lake Palace nestled in its heart. The City Palace towers over Pichola Lake and is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The Jagdish Temple and the Jag Mandir are also some of the notable sites. A boat ride on Lake Pichola in the evening reveals an unforgettable sight of shimmering city lights. For those exploring north India places to see, Udaipur offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich history.
Leh-Ladakh is included in the best north India places to see for those looking to get tanned with adventure and surreal landscapes. This place is said to be the northernmost part of India, which has a flat barren and cold desert land. The monasteries of Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit offer inner peace, being hidden in very beautiful spots. The places you must visit include the chameleon Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley, which has dunes with double-humped camels. If none of those views took your breath away, prepare yourself for the epic drive over the Khardung La Pass - one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
North India is a land beyond classification, an elaborated chapter in the book of mankind's history overflowing with diverse experiences. Alongside the architectural marvels of the Taj Mahal and Jaipur, there is religious purity in Varanasi and Amritsar, as well as picturesque landscapes in Manali and Leh-Ladakh among others, which speak volumes about North India tourism. From a history buff to a spiritual follower, adventure addict to nature lover, North India tourist destinations have something for all wonders of the globe. The tourist spots mentioned above show you only a piece of this culturally and naturally rich region. So, include these iconic places to go in North India while planning your travel itinerary for a truly unforgettable and rewarding experience.
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