Most Beautiful Cities and Villages You Should Visit in India

From the serene lakes of Udaipur to the vibrant streets of Jaipur, India is a stunningly beautiful country. Discover the Himalayan scenery of Shimla, the beaches of Goa, or the rich history of Delhi with knowledgeable guides who make each place come to life. Our carefully chosen experiences guarantee an amazing journey, whether your goals are leisure, adventure, or culture.

Jaipur is commonly known as the ‘Pink City’ due to its stunning buildings which were painted pink in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria. Jaipur is also the biggest city in the state of Rajasthan, and its capital. Together with Agra and Delhi, it is part of the famous Golden “Triangle” which attracts thousands of Indian and international tourists every year. The most-visited sites include the mesmerizing City Palace, a couple of impressive Rajput forts and the many temples.

Nestled at an elevation of 2133.6 metres in South Sikkim is the quaint town of Ravangla. It offers stunning landscapes with the backdrop of the snow-laden peaks of Kanchenjunga and the environs of the lush Himalayan forest and rolling valleys. This town is known for its diversity of flora and fauna, picturesque tea gardens and the ancient Ralan and Bonn monasteries. You can spot a wide range of Himalayan birds here – blue-fronted redstarts, green-backed tit, verditer flycatchers, white-browed fantails and blue-whistling thrush, thus making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Being located at a hefty altitude, it makes a perfect place for thrill-seekers to boot. You could spend an extra day or two exploring its neighbouring villages of Bhutia and Lepcha that are equally beautiful, and devoid of modern noise. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Varanasi is one of the most beautiful, historical and spiritual cities in northern India. The first settlements date back to the 11th century BC, making it one of the oldest inhabited places in the world. A sacred place for both Hindus and Jains, it is also home to a varied range of vendors, sadhus, entrepreneurs, priests, pilgrims and families. The scenes of devotion in the river, set against the backdrop of stunning temples, are certainly some of the most impressive in the world.

Located in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, Tarkarli is a seaside village with sprawling coastline and pristine ecosystem. This village is known for its white sandy beaches and azure waters, and the shuru vegetation adds to its charm. The major attractions are the Tarkarli beach and backwaters of Karli river. Visitors can indulge in water activities, like scuba diving, zorbing and snorkelling. It is among the best destinations for scuba diving in India, where you can see marine life up to 20ft. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

If you want to experience an organic way of life, look no further than Munsiyari; a tiny village in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by snow-laden Himalayan peaks, this picturesque village offer a perfect respite from the chaotic city life. Wedged between the borders of India, Nepal and Tibet, breathtaking mountain trekking trails abound in this village, such as the Namik, Milam and Ralam glacier treks. The region is also home to a variety of bird species. The short jaunt outside the village will put you amid the spectacular scenery of the surrounding villages of Sarmoli and Darkot. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Mawlynnong is primarily famed for its cleanliness and greenery, and has even received the accolade of ‘Asia’s Cleanest Village’. Located in the East Khasi hill district of Meghalaya, Mawlynnong is a charming retreat full of natural beauty. The inhabitants are warm and amiable, and follow eco-friendly ways of living. The village is home to several attractions that allow people to be at one with nature in solitude. The worth-checking spots are the 1,000-year-old Living Root Bridgesmade out of the roots of the rubber tree, the 85ft-high Sky Walk made from bamboo, the waterfall and a 100-year old Church of Epiphany. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Lying in the lap of Himalayas, Chopta is unspoilt by urbanisation and offers a perfect retreat to relax in the nature’s midst. Rich in diversity of flora and fauna, fresh mountain air and a plethora of trekking trails, this tiny hamlet is a must-visit. If you love the snow, visit from December to February, as the village is usually wrapped up in sheets of snow. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Most famous for its stunning lakes, forts, temples and palaces, Udaipur is another city located in the state of Rajasthan, and is certainly not to be missed. Lovers will be delighted to hear that this is a city filled with romantic spots, as well as beautiful gardens. Over the years, it has been a favorite setting for many movies, including James Bond-title Octopussy (1983). The city is filled with colour, as locals opt to wear vibrant clothes, and fairs and festivals happen year-round.

Often referred as a ‘hippie heaven’ or ‘backpackers’ paradise’, Kasol is brimming with international expats, mainly Israelis, who now call this hamlet home. The hamlet is a mix of laid-back vibe with a plethora of charming cafés, natural beauty and trekking trails. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Mandawa is famed for its colourful and gloriously standing forts and havelis, complete with mirror work, exquisite carvings and spectacular frescoes. The town takes you back to the ostentatious era of the Maharajas of Rajasthan. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

In one of the latest surveys, Bangalore was established as India’s most livable city. In the past, it used to be referred to as the “Pensioner’s Paradise” and the “Garden City of India” because of its large, green spaces. While in recent years, development has meant that the city’s green areas have been affected and reduced, it still has enough to make it one of the most beautiful cities in India, and lush green forests can still be found in the outskirts. Bangalore is also the main center of the IT industry, commonly known as the “Silicon Valley of India”.

Gokarna is one of the seven Hindu pilgrimage sites, full of temples. Besides, there are pristine palm-clad beaches and stunning landscapes that draws hordes of travellers to its shores to revel in sun, sea, sand and nature. There are many restaurants and resorts, too. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Lachen is one of the most picturesque villages in North Sikkim, with lush vegetation, snow-white mountain peaks, pine-laden valleys and trekking trails. The must-visit is the Lachen Monastery that is set atop the village offering stunning views of the village. You can reach this village either by a two-day trek from the Yumthang Valley, or via road from Gangtok. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

It is true that Delhi is the capital of India, home to the executive, judiciary and legislative branches of the Government. But Delhi is much more than that. It is a creative hub—a large metropolis with many arts and culture-related activities to offer. Travelers can head there for the best dining experiences and nightlife, but also for sightseeing as the city is home to some of the most stunning temples, mosques and forts. These include the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and the Baha’i Lotus Temple.

Set at an altitude of 1,495 metres, amidst the hills of Darjeeling, Mirik is known for its relaxed vibe and classic English architecture that transports you back to bygone days. This town is brimming with natural marvels, such as the Sumendu lake that has pine groves on one side and a verdant garden on the other, and a rainbow bridge connecting the two. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Renowned for its 14th century Diskit monastery that houses 106ft tall image of Maitreya Buddha, natural scenic beauty, mountains and serenity, Diskit is a beautiful village in the Leh district of Jammu and Kashmir. After spending a day or two here, you can head to the Nubra Valley that is known for its sand dunes, monasteries and Bactrian camels – do take a ride on one! Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Chennai is a beautiful city serving as the gateway to the south of India and has a distinct culture based on Tamil traditions. At the same time, the city is a modern cosmopolitan city with a very diverse population. The architectural landscape, for example, comprises beautiful ancient temples just as much as modern high-rises. Besides the thriving local arts and culture scene which attracts visitors from across the globe, Chennai is also an important medical tourism destination.

Filled with paddy fields, pine hills, scenic ridges, abundant of flora and fauna, enchanting caves and copious trekking trails, Ziro beckons to lovers of nature and adventure. This quaint town is also home to the Apatani tribe, who possess distinctive special characteristics and culture, so you can experience authentic tribal life. Visitors need an Inner Line Permit to reach this village. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Poovar is a small town, whose historic and natural beauty remains untainted, which makes it a perfect place for those looking for peace and quiet. Visitors can ride in a houseboat on the emerald backwaters of Poovar and soak in the stunning vistas of the surroundings filled with tropical green forests. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Located in southern India, Mysore is by far one of the most well-planned cities in India, the second cleanliest countrywide and the cultural capital of Karnataka. What Mysore is most famous for is its yoga centers; in fact, it’s where Ashtanga yoga originated. To find the best yoga schools, the Gokulam suburb is your best bet. The area is home to some of the most renowned schools in the country, including the famous S.K. Pattabhi Jois’ Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute.

Zuluk is a tiny village, located on the ancient Silk Route. This small hamlet does not have a hotel, but homestay options abound. Besides the abundant natural beauty, this village is known for its route that involves 32 hairpin bends, an engineering marvel. Be sure to visit the famous cave-like Nag temple and the Thambi View Point that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You can also catch a glimpse of Himalayan flora and fauna. After spending some time in this village, you can explore the other hamlets lying on the Silk Route. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Located in the upper reaches of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 7,500 ft, Kalap is an untouched beauty where you can breathe in pollution-free air and bask in nature. Surrounded by fragrant deodar and pine forests, you can go hiking along its charming terrains, indulge in organic farming, wander around the village and meet locals, and relish the authentic locally grown food. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Agra is home to what is arguably the most beautiful and revered building in the country, the Taj Mahal. This stunning marble mausoleum is part of the Seven Wonders of the World. Agra also has two other UNESCO World Heritage sites, namely the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, which are also worth a visit.

Muttom is a fishing village dotted with scenic shorelines, caves and rocky terrains. This village is devoid of mass tourism, thus keeping its beaches pristine and natural beauty intact. So, next time you’re down south, be sure to visit this village to simply relax and rejuvenate. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Sitting pretty on the banks of the Nubra River amid the snow-clad peaks, the Panamik is known for its hot spring that is said to have therapeutic properties. There are monasteries and plenty of trekking options available in and around the village. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

A charming city for the unsuspecting traveler, Kolkata has long been known as the country’s cultural capital, and continues to be home to some of the best poets, film producers, writers and Nobel Prize winners. It is a city of contrasts, where you’ll encounter run-down but beautiful British Raj period houses, historical colleges and stunning gardens.

Nako is an undiscovered realm of beauty. It is a lakeside hamlet, set on India-China border. The snow-covered mountains, lush greenery and pristine lakes make it one of the most beautiful villages in Himachal. Visitors can go boating on the Nako Lake. And, when the winter sets in, it transforms into a magical wonderland wrapped in sheets of snow, making it perfect for skiing. Recommended by Poonam Binayak.

Located along the sea, Mumbai is the most cosmopolitan metropolis of India, and was once known as Bombay. It is also the biggest city in India, and, without doubt, the country’s financial center. With endless opportunities for exploration, the city’s most notable attraction is the Gateway of India, built in 1911 to commemorate a royal visit.

India is a country with rich historical traditions, breathtaking scenery, and dynamic cultures. Every region of the nation has something special to offer, from the majestic palaces of Jaipur to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Expert-led tours can help you discover the best of India, whether you’re looking for architectural masterpieces in Agra or spiritual encounters in Varanasi. Begin your exploration now.