15 Destinations in India That Will Change The Way You See the World

Despite the thrill that travelling to unknown lands brings with it, quite a number of gems remain unexplored in our own country. Prime Minister Modi on Independence Day urged citizens to explore at least 15 local destinations to highlight domestic tourist attractions. Why travel to far flung countries when your own backyard has a number of unturned precious stones? With a plethora of cultures, traditions and customs, it is rightly said that India’s unity is in its diversity. Do not know where to start? We have got you covered. Thomas Cook challenges you to visit these 15 local destinations before 2022!

1. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya, One of the Cleanest Destinations in India

This monsoon state features Mawlynnong– the cleanest village in Asia, a feat that deserves to be marvelled at. This little village has achieved huge distinctions. Rightfully addressed as God’s own garden, Mawlynnong’s people have raised this village, as one would their own child. The tribal people have lovingly given shape to the roots of the trees. You will witness this at the Living Root Bridges that curl over a river. Apart from the many wonders that this hamlet has to offer, progressive is one of the many words used to describe this place. It proves that 100 per cent literacy, as well as women empowerment is not impossible to achieve.

Best time to visit – Known as the abode of clouds, this showery state offers you lush green valleys, untouched waterfalls and otherworldly views in the monsoon. The best time to visit this state would be the summer season, when you could easily indulge in some sightseeing and adventure activities. Being pleasantly warm, temperatures range from 16 C to 31 C at this time of the year.

How to get there – If you plan to take the train, the closest railway station is in Guwahati located 180 km from Meghalaya. It is well connected to Amritsar, New Delhi, Bangalore, and Jammu and Kashmir. If you are planning to travel by air, the closest airport to Meghalaya is in Guwahati (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport). It lies at a distance of 159 kms from Meghalaya.

Weather – Home to some of the rainiest cities in the world, Meghalaya’s skies are constantly overcast and cloudy throughout the day. The monsoon brings with it, heavy downpours that leave Meghalaya in a state of lush greenery and misty mornings.

Other popular attractions in Meghalaya – Head to the Elephant Falls in Shillong to listen to the water gushing ever so harmoniously as it beats relentlessly against the rocks. If you are an adventure enthusiast, head to Tura and Guwahati on trekking expeditions. You could also visit attractions such as the Balpakram National Park near Garo Hills in Meghalaya.

2. Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh, Amongst Famous Destinations in India

Both Bollywood and Hollywood have an ongoing love affair with the Taj Mahal as it is an iconic symbol of adoration and devotion. This ivory white mausoleum stands along the banks of the Yamuna river in Agra. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. This remnant of love is also considered to be the jewel of Mughal architecture and attracts around 7 to 8 million visitors in a year. The beauty of this monument lies in its perfect symmetry. Often this country’s identity has been associated with Taj Mahal, by people from all over the world. You ask any foreigner about India, and the first thing they will say is the Taj Mahal! This monument can be visited on all days except Friday and is open from 30 minutes prior sunrise till 30 minutes post sunset.

Best time to visit – A suitable time to visit this historical location would be from October to March.

How to get there –

• By Rail: The Agra Cantt Railway Station is the nearest station to the Taj Mahal.
• By Air: The nearest airport to the Taj Mahal is in Agra.

Weather – The sun is a regular visitor throughout the year. However, the weather gets relatively cooler in the winter season.

Suggested Read : Taj Mahotsav 2019 – Where India Comes Together

3. Varanasi’s temples and Ganga Ghats, Uttar Pradesh

The world’s oldest city- Varanasi – houses temples and Ganga ghats. Benaras is laden with 88 ghats that lead to the Ganga river. Popular temples include Kashi Viswanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Dhanvantari Temple and Durga Temple. Taking a dip in the holy Ganga river by the Ghats is believed to give one ultimate salvation. You will find the Ghats along the banks of the Ganga River bustling with fortune tellers, snack-sellers, vegetable vendors, boat-operators and yoga practitioners.

Best time to visit – You must visit during the months of November to February.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The Varanasi Railway station is well connected to most of the major cities.
• By Air: Varanasi Airport is well linked to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

Weather – Varanasi is usually mild, temperate and cooler in the winters.

Other popular attractions in Uttar Pradesh – One of the many popular attractions in the state is the Agra Fort, also known as the Lal – Qila. It is located at a distance of 2.5 km from Taj Mahal and defines Mughal architecture. Comprising four gates, one can say that this great Mughal Fort has not been overshadowed by the magnificent Taj Mahal. Made of red sandstone, this ancient fortress’s initial parts were constructed by Mughal emperor Akbar and subsequently taken over by his grandson Shah Jahan. Head to the Ramnagar Fort and Museum standing across the Tulsi Ghat. This is the favourite sunset spot amongst the tourists. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum if you are an art enthusiast. Located within the premises of the Banaras Hindu University, you will find miniature paintings and local history displays.

Must Read : The Pilgrim’s Bucket List

4. The Statue of Unity, Gujarat

The Statue of Unity- largest monolithic statue in India is an ode to Sardar Vallabhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. It lies at a distance of 100 kms from Vadodara. You can visit the Statue of Unity from Tuesday to Sunday.

Best time to visit – The best time to visit would be during the months of November to February.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  Trains are easily available to Vadodara from any place in the country as it is well connected with all major cities.
• By Air: The nearest airport is the Sardar Vallabhai International Airport. You will also get flights connecting you to Vadodara.

Weather – The weather in Gujarat is usually hot and dry in the summer with mild and pleasant winters.

Other popular attractions in Gujarat – You could also visit the Gir National Park, home to the Asiatic Lions. Head to the beautiful beach Town, Porbandar which is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. It also comprises temples and dams.Forts and monuments in Rajasthan.

Recommended Read : 10 facts about Gujarat you never knew

5. Forts and Monuments in Rajasthan

Located in the Pink City of Jaipur, the palace of winds is one of the most frequented places by tourists. It is constructed with pink and red sandstone, which gives the monument a royal look. It is a towering five storeyed palace housing around 953 windows.If you stand right at the top, you will get a beautiful view of the Jantar Mantar, City Palace and Sireh Deori Bazaar in the other direction. You can visit the Hawa Mahal from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Head to the Taragarh Fort in Ajmer if you want to learn a little about the military history of this region. The Fort was later used as a sanatorium during the rein of the British.

Best time to visit – The weather remains pleasant during the months of November to February.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  Jaipur offers good connectivity with the major cities in the country through Indian Railways. The Ajmer Junction Railway station connects you to all the major cities
• By Air: The closest airport to Ajmer is in Jaipur, one can take a bus or cab to reach the hamlet.

Weather – It is usually rather hot in the summers and drastically cold in the winters.

Other popular attractions in Rajasthan – Head to the royal city of Jodhpur and visit the Mehrangarh Fort which is known to be one of the largest forts in India. This imposing piece of architecture is made of red sandstone and four hundred feet above the skyline of Jodhpur. Head to Ranthambore National Park which is home to royal tigers, crocodiles and leopards.

Suggested Read : Rajasthan and the legends of its forts

6. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho houses the finest sculptures from the past. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town boasts of evocative and erotic stone carvings on its World Heritage listed temples. One of the most popular temples in Khajuraho is the Lakshmana Temple that comprises carvings of a horse and a gentleman. These carvings tell stories that you won’t find anywhere else. Another temple to visit is the Kandariya-Mahadev temple that has intricate carvings, portraying female beauty.

Best time to visit – You should head here during the period of October – March.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The railway station connects you to only a few places such as New Delhi.
• By Air: The Khajuraho domestic airport is well connected to major cities in the country.

Weather – The climate is usually humid and rather hot throughout the year.

Other popular attractions in Madhya Pradesh – You could head to the Kanha Tiger Reserve if you want to spot some tigers, jackals and wild pigs in the meadows. Head to the Dhuandhar Falls to witness the extreme force of the water, which releases a huge plume of mist, as it plunges down towards the rocks.

7. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, One of the Best Destinations in India

Also known as the Yogic Hub, Rishikesh- the Yoga Capital of the world attracts many tourists because of its sacred Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Rishikesh is the yoga enthusiast’s paradise with its many ashrams and yoga retreats. Head to Parmarth Niketan along the banks of the Ganga river in Rishikesh for the perfect yoga retreat to calm your senses.

Best time to visit – Head to Rishikesh during the months of March to June.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The nearest railway station to Rishikesh is in Haridwar, 25 kms away from the hamlet.
• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Rishikesh.

Weather – Rishikesh is mild and warm in the summers and drastically cold in the winters.

8. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

This is where Prime Minister Modi covered the trekking path with adventurer Bear Grylls for the Man vs Wild show. This path will soon be turned into a tourist spot and will be called the Modi Trail. Head to the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand to witness exuberant flowers in various shades. You might also spot the Blue Sheep, Black deer and other endangered species of fauna.

Best time to visit – Head here during the months of November to June.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The nearest railway station to Corbett is in Ramnagar. Direct trains from Delhi to Ramnagar run regularly.
• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Rishikesh.

Weather – The region is mild and warm in the summers and drastically cold in the winters.

Recommended Read : Discover the best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park

9. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand

Witness exuberant flowers in various shades at the valley of flowers. You might also spot the Blue Sheep, Black deer other endangered species of fauna. Located near Badrinath, this is a famous tourist destination to look at its wild blooms bordered by white peaks. With a plethora of medicinal and healing herbs, history says that Hanuman picked up the Sanjivani for the ill Lakshmana from the valley of flowers.

Best time to visit – Visit during the months of Mid-July to Mid-August.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The nearest railway station is located in Rishikesh.
• By Air: The closest airport to Valley of Flowers is in Jolly Grant airport, Dehradun.

Weather – Usually divided according to its area, the weather is cooler in hilly terrains and comparatively hotter in the plains.

Other popular attractions in Uttarakhand – Head to Badrinath temple which is the most sought-after site by the pilgrims. This temple is Lord Vishnu’s home and is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Head to Har ki Paudi in Haridwar which is deemed to be the most historically significant temple in the city. This temple is famous for its Ganga aarti. Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, Kedarnath is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage centres in India. Tourists from all over the world visit this 1200-year-old temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst snow-capped mountains, the Kedarnath temple welcomes its devotees with a spiritual atmosphere after an adventurous trek to Lord Shiva’s shrine.

10. Ladakh, One of The Most Sought After Destinations in India

The adventure enthusiast must aim to explore Ladakh by going on a motorbike expedition. Head to the Pangong Tso Lake- the place where 3 Idiots was shot. The 130 km stretch of water will mesmerise you. You could also set up a camp by the lake and unwind for a bit after the ride. Visit the Nubra Valley and be amazed by the cold mountain deserts. This could also prove to be a suitable camping site.

Best time to visit – The most suitable time to visit Ladakh by road is during the month of June.

How to get there –

• By Rail: The Jammu Tawi railway station is located 712 kms away from Ladakh.
• By Air: The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport in Leh is the closest airport to Ladakh.

Weather – Ladakh has a cold desert like climate and ranges from pleasant to extremely challenging.

Other popular attractions in Ladakh – Head to the Zanskar Valley to get a breath-taking view of its snow-clad peaks surrounded by long stretches of brown. Visit Shanti Stupa that overlooks Leh in its entirety and is also a popular sunset viewing spot. If you like a bit of a challenge, motorbike your way through the Khardung La Pass and boast about it to your friends and family later!

Must Read : 10 secrets you didn’t know about Ladakh

11. Konark Sun Temple, Orissa

A monumental portrayal of the Sun God Surya’s chariot, the Konark Sun Temple is a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 13th century old temple is solely made from stone and its architecture defines divinity. Its fine Brahmin architecture pays a tribute to the Sun God and signifies wealth, strength and spirituality of the Brahmin community.

Best time to visit – You must visit during the months of November and February

How to get there –

• By Rail:  Trains to and from all major cities run from Orissa.
• By Air: Biju Patnaik Airport at Bhubaneswar is well connected to different cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

Weather – Orissa has a tropical climate and remains warm throughout the year.

Other popular attractions in Orissa – Head to the longest dam in the world- Hirakud Dam standing tall across river Mahanadi. This is quite a popular spot amongst the tourists. Another major attraction is the Puri Beach where you can head to for a picnic with your family. You can also engage in water sports, camel and horse rides.

Other popular attractions in Orissa – Head to the Ramnagar Fort and Museum standing across the Tulsi Ghat. This is the favourite sunset watching spot amongst the tourists. You will also find quite a few American antiques and cars, medieval costumes inside the museum. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum if you are an art enthusiast. Located within the premises of the Banaras Hindu University, you will find miniature paintings and local history displays.

12. Backwaters of Kerala

The Kerala Backwater tour comprises Alleppey Backwaters, Kuttanad Backwaters and Padanna Backwaters and many more. Experience the comfort of luxury house boats as you explore the region’s vivid colours on sparkling waters. Head to the Alleppey Backwaters and explore the region in an austere houseboat. Lush green coconut trees will whisk past you as you meander your way through the lake. You will also witness the beautiful sunset, painting a pretty picture in the sky.

Best time to visit – Visit during the months of August to March.

How to get there –

• By Rail: Kerala is quite well connected with major cities in the country.
• By Air: The state comprises three airports in Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Kochi.

Weather – Kerala is usually pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20 to 32° C with copious amounts of rainfall.

Other popular attractions in Kerala – Head to Munnar if you are visiting Kerala and marvel at the lush green meadows, imposing mountains and tea estates. Bring out the explorer in you and engage in some paragliding, trekking as well as rock climbing. If you have some time on your hands, visit Thekkady and Chalakudy which comprise popular tourist spots -Periyar National Park and Kauthuka Park respectively.

Must Read : The Backwaters of Kerala for Honeymooners

13. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Khajjiar is better known as the mini Switzerland of India. With a topography similar to that of Switzerland, this is one of the most frequented tourist spots. Head to the Khajjiar Lake- an island of sorts, which is the ideal picnic spot for the family. You can also engage in horse riding and para gliding activities.

Best time to visit – Visit during the months of March to October.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The nearest railway station is located in Pathankot.
• By Air: The nearest airport is in Dharamshala- Gaggal airport.

Weather – Himachal is usually pleasant with heavy snowfall during the winter.

Other popular attractions in Himachal Pradesh – Head to the Spiti Valley to catch a glimpse of the snow-clad Himalayas. This valley separates India from Tibet and is also home to a number of trekking trails for the adventure enthusiast. However, do make it a point to visit during the summer. Another major tourist attraction is the Hidimba Devi Temple, with wooden architecture. This temple is in Manali and is dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, Lord Bhima’s wife. Head to Mcleodganj if you are an adventure enthusiast. With a heavy influence of Tibetan and British culture, it is also home to the great spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Located in Dharamshala, this place is dotted with major Tibetan settlements. You must also head to Bhagsu Nag and Kangra, located quite close to Mcleodganj.

14. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The Kaziranga National Park is known to be famous for spotting the one-horned rhinoceros. With an exotic variety of flora and fauna, this place is ideal for photography and wildlife enthusiasts. The species closest to humans would be the mammals – Wild buffalo, Eastern mole and Pangolin. You’ll also meet with the reptiles of the park. You will find lizards, turtles and tortoises and of course crocodiles with their long and slender snouts.

Best time to visit – Visit during the months of October to April.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  Guwahati is the rail hub of Assam and well connected to cities such as Trivandrum, Cochin, Bangalore and New Delhi.
• By Air: Guwahati’s Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the nearest airport and is well connected to major cities.

Weather – The summers are extremely hot, while the monsoons bring some relief with high rainfall.

Other popular attractions in Assam – This north eastern state is known for its tea. Hence, do not forget to visit the dense tea gardens when in Assam. Some of the top tea gardens are the Manjushree Tea Gardens and Mangalam Tea estate.

15. Kashmir, One of the Beautiful Destinations in India

We are not exaggerating when we say that Kashmir is Paradise on earth. With its picturesque locations, plentiful wildlife and snow-white valleys, Kashmir is on every traveller’s bucket list. Do try the Shikara ride on Dal Lake at Srinagar which is known as the jewel in the crown of Kashmir. The lake is dotted with lotuses, lilies and water chestnuts. You can also indulge in kayaking, canoeing and other water activities at Dal Lake. As you meander through the lake, you will see that it is surrounded with mountains on all sides.

Best time to visit – Visit during the months of March to early-May.

How to get there –

• By Rail:  The Jammu Tawi Railway Station is located 330 kms away from Kashmir, being the nearest railway centre.
• By Air: The Srinagar airport is well connected to major cities.

Weather – Kashmir has a moderate climate, whereas Jammu is a subtropical region and receives plenty of sunshine.

Other popular attractions in Kashmir – If you want to take the road less travelled, head to Aru; a quaint hamlet located in the hills with endless meadows. It is well known for its Lidder River and Lidderwat meadow. Another place you could head to is Gulmarg. This popular hill station is dotted with bluebells, daisies, forget-me-nots and buttercups when winter falls. Adventure enthusiasts, can also engage in horse riding, skiing and trekking.