Best Tourist Places to Visit in North India

Home to ancient kingdoms, cosmopolitan cities, scenic landscapes, lush valleys, and old towns, the northern part of India is a mystery that you have to explore at least once in your life. Nestling towns and cities with diverse yet fascinating characteristics, North India has been attracting people from different corners of the nation for years now.

If you are someone planning to visit tourist places in North India, make sure you add these ones to your list: -

Delhi – For its heritage

The national capital and one of the best-developed cities in India, Delhi is where the heritage is. Although popular as the seat of politics in the nation, Delhi actually has a lot of captivating elements in store that make it one of the top places to visit in North India.

Be it exploring the ancient monuments, temples, and museums to delve into the city’s rich history or inspecting it lavish lanes for some soul-fulfilling shopping, you will find a lot to do in this city. Boasting of some of the most hep places for youngsters to hang out in, Delhi remains busy all year round. The Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb and the India Gate are some of the top places to visit here if a peep back into history is what you desire.

 

Agra – For its magnificence

Home to one of the most mesmerizing wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, Agra is another one of the top places to visit in North India for history enthusiasts and romantics, in general. Located in close proximity to Delhi, Agra is accessible by both road and rail. Heading to this place will allow you to closely witness the remnants of the Mughal period in the form of the city’s old architecture. Once you are done wandering in awe of the white marble-clad hallways of the Taj Mahal, head forth to explore other Mughal attractions in the city like the Fathepur Sikri and the famous Agra fort.

 

Haridwar and Rishikesh – For its devotion

One of the best places to visit in North India for the religious, spiritual and adventurous, the twin cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh add a new flavour to this unique spread. Located at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas along the banks of river Ganga, the heritage cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh are suited to both the young and the old.

While you can go around visiting temples, observing aartis and participating in festivities in Haridwar, Rishikesh is where you can engage yourself in some soul-searching through yoga and meditation. The place also offers unique opportunities for a variety of adventure sports like river rafting, bungee jumping and flying fox for the thrill-seekers.

 

Amritsar – For its atmosphere

Considered as the centre of the Sikh religion in India, Amritsar is among the popular tourist places in North India, and a treasure trove of culture, history, and food. Harbouring the famous Golden Temple, the city of Amritsar has a history dating back to the 16^th century. Founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the city has many gems within its borders that can pique the interest of tourists and travellers alike.

The city’s topmost attraction, the Golden Temple was established in the year 1588, a little after the city’s own establishment. Besides this, some of the most popular places among tourists here include the Wagah Border and the Jallianwala Bagh.

Varanasi – For its holiness

Recorded among the oldest cities in the country, Varanasi is often referred to as the “religious capital of India”. Comprising of narrow, busy lanes and old architectures the city holds an old-world charm. An important destination among Hindu pilgrims and seekers of spirituality, Varanasi is popular for being home to more than 80 Ghats and around 2000 temples.

Known as Lord Shiva’s own city, Varanasi is one of the best places to visit in North India that attracts a large number of devotees. When in Varanasi, stroll along its lanes to experience its rustic vibe, or calm your spirits by watching an enthralling evening aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.

 

Kashmir Circuit – For the utopia

Referred to as the Paradise on Earth, Kashmir is one of those tourist places in North India that you will find in every travel lovers bucket list. Snow-covered mountains, vibrant valleys, beautiful lakes are what mostly make up the landscape of the breath-taking Kashmir valley.  Recognized as a winter destination, Kashmir along with the neighbouring Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam, offers the most stunning topography you can find.

When visiting Kashmir, some of the top things to do, include a pleasant shikara ride across the Dal Lake, thrilling adventure activities/skiing at Gulmarg, tasting strawberries at the strawberry fields, and so on.

 

Kullu and Manali – For the much-needed break

A resort town located at a height of 2050 meters in the Beas River valley, Manali is one of those tourist places in North India that is recognized for its surreal vistas, revitalizing weather conditions, and super-exciting adventure sports.

Preferred by backpackers, honeymooners and families alike, Manali along with the neighbouring town of Kullu (located at a distance of 40 kilometres) offers an amazing retreat from the chaos and monotony of cities. The old and one-of-its-kind Hadimba temple, Vashisht hot springs, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk art, and Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa are some of the key attractions here. Manali is also a popular hotspot amongst trekkers; those interested in adventure activities like zorbing or paragliding can head to Solang Valley.

 

Dharamshala – For serenity

Presenting soul-pleasing views of the Dhauladhar Ranges, Dharamshala is a quaint little hill station that is a favourite with pilgrims as well as tourists. Famed for being the residence of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is one of the best places in North India for tourists to head to for some much-needed peace and solitude.

The upper portion of the town, better known as Mcleodganj, an important centre of the Tibetan community in India, is where most of the crowd heads to for lip-smacking food, shopping, and invigorating activities. The Tsuglagkhang Complex, Tibetan Museum, Bhagsunag waterfall, Kangra Fort, and HPCA cricket stadium are among some of the most preferred places by tourists here.

 

Jaipur – For its regality!

If your list of places to visit in North India does not include Jaipur, then that list needs revision!

Known throughout the nation as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital and one of the biggest cities in the state of Rajasthan. Having served as a stronghold to the Rajput rulers of Amer, Jaipur is a city that is rich in culture and heritage. Recognized for its lively festivals and royal architecture, it is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Jantar Mantar and the mighty Amer Fort.

This is one of those places in North India where you will be amazed by royal monuments, enticed by elaborately designed dresses, and impressed by the flavourful Rajasthani cuisine! Some of the top places to cover in Jaipur include Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amer Fort, and Chokhi Dhani.

Exquisite as they may be, the above-mentioned are only a handful of all that the North Indian tourism has to offer. However, for someone looking forward to an amazing holiday while discovering the many colours of the north, a list of these places is a good way to get started. You can look into tour packages to North India that cover these destinations, in case elaborate trip planning is not your thing.