India is a diverse country with something for everyone. From the cosmopolitan city of Delhi to the ancient ruins at Ajanta and Ellora Caves, there is so much to see!
One of the best places to visit in India is Varanasi, a place where a fusion of religion and spirituality meets. It’s a holy city that attracts Hindu pilgrims with funeral rituals at the Ghats overlooking the River Ganges.
1. Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb is a stunning 16th century memorial and one of Delhi’s most popular tourist attractions. It is also the first tomb to be built in India and is the resting place of over 150 Mughal emperors.
The monument has a number of striking features and is known for its unique construction. It is octagonal on the outside and square on the inside and it has an imposing marble dome.
The sandstone structure has been illuminated so that you can enjoy spell-binding views of the beautiful architecture at dawn or dusk. The building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the must-see attractions in Delhi.
2. Dudhsagar Falls
Dudhsagar Falls, also referred to as the “Sea of Milk”, is one of the most beautiful and majestic waterfalls in India. Located on the Karnataka-Goa border, it is surrounded by dense forest and is home to a wide variety of wildlife.
This beautiful waterfall is a part of Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
It is considered to be one of the most renowned natural wonders in the world and it attracts many tourists every year.
The waters of the falls flow down in three streams that make their way to the ocean. It is the fifth tallest waterfall in India and a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
The best time to visit this spectacular waterfall is between October and March, when the weather is perfect. However, it is not recommended to trek here during the monsoon season, as it can become very slippery.
3. Hampi
Hampi, a small town in Karnataka, is a traveler’s paradise. It is famous for its architectural brilliance and the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire that once flourished here.
One of the most prominent attractions is the Vittala Temple, which was built in Dravidian style and dedicated to the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The high compound walls, Maha Mantapa and exceptional stone chariot are some of the highlights of this magnificent structure.
Another famous monument is the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, which displays a monolithic statue of a half-man and half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Though damaged during the Mughal raid that ruined the Vijayanagara Empire, it is still a significant piece of art to see.
4. Akshardham Temple
One of the most beautiful temples in India, Akshardham Temple is a stunning shrine that reflects the country’s spirituality and history. It’s the largest Hindu temple in the world and was first opened to the public in 2005.
The complex is a tribute to the life and teachings of 19th-century saint Swaminarayan. The temple’s intricate architecture and impressive size attract millions of visitors every year.
Among the temple’s main attractions is a multimedia water dancing fountain show that tells a story through light and water. It’s called the “Circle of Life,” and it takes place every evening.
Other exhibits include the Hall of Values, which teaches the importance of truth, peace, and non-violence; Neelkanth Darshan, a multimedia theater show about Swaminarayan; and the Sahaj Anand Water Show, which showcases the temple’s millennia-old culture through a series of large format films.
5. Leh
Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. Its enchanting scenic beauty, high altitude, and rich culture make it a fascinating place to visit.
- The Shanti Stupa, a white-domed chorten built by Japanese Buddhists and Ladakhi monks to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism and promote world peace is the most famous landmark in Leh. It offers a stunning view of Leh town and the entire Ladakh region from its hilltop in Chanspa.
- Another famous attraction in Ladakh is the Hemis National Park, the largest national park in South Asia. It is home to a variety of wildlife species including leopards, Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolves and the Eurasian brown bear. It is also a great place for bird watching.