If you’re someone who loves India and wants to know the heritage of India, planning a vacation to North India is a must-do.
The beauty of nature blended well with great adventures and culture is what north India travel provides you. Totally different from southern India, North India has a lot of cultural influence from the Mughals and Middle Eastern invasions. The food, the buildings, the culture, everything has a distinct taste of Indian + Middle eastern blend that’s very unique. If you’re planning a North India trip, here are a few must-visit places in my opinion.
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Best Travel Destinations in North India
North India travel is a surprise package each time you visit. It has always attracted tourists from the world over, with mountains, valleys, lakes, and other beauties of nature; you could never get tired of this great place.
1. Kashmir for its heavenly scenery
Who does not know about Kashmir? It is otherwise also called the Switzerland of India or the ‘Paradise of Earth’.
If coming to India, Kashmir is one place that should be a priority on your list as this is such a beautiful place that should not be missed out. It is surrounded by mountains, valleys, rivers and holds natural beauty as such. The ride on a Shikara at the Daal Lake could not be traded for anything else.
Some of the places that should not be missed out in Kashmir are Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg as they are filled with so much natural beauty that just awakens your senses. For those of you, who love nature and peace, Kashmir is ‘THE’ place to be in.
2. Shimla for its views
Also known as the “Queen of Hill Stations”, Shimla is one place that should not be missed out after Kashmir. The snowfall in Shimla is something that your eyes would love. People flock to Shimla every year to experience the great snowfalls and also to enjoy the Toy train rides. Other places to be visited in Shimla include the Tara Devi temple, Summer Temple, Jahkoo Temple, Christ Church, State Museum, Colonial homes, etc.
Related reading: Places in India with snowfall.
3. Manali to enjoy Solitude
This is yet another pretty hill station in Himachal Pradesh. A well-known place for honeymoon couples and nature lovers. The quietness and beauty combined together bring in a great number of visitors, from all over the world to this destination. Some of the other attractions of Manali include Hadimba Devi Temple, Rohtang Pass, and Solang Valley.
4. Jim Corbett National Park for adventure
If you are not somebody very close to nature, but love adventures, then Corbett is the best place. This is the first Wild Life sanctuary of India and you could experience the wildlife near to you through the forest safari and elephant rides you get over there. Wildlife tourism is splendid in this location.
5. Ranthambhore, Rajasthan for wildlife
One of the largest and most popular National parks is Ranthambhore, also known as the ‘Pride of Rajasthan’. Most commonly known for the large number of tiger population they have in there and also provide the Jeep Safari, wherein you could experience the thrills of forest in a convenient manner. The Camel Safari is also very famous and it is a great experience to go in through both.
6. Varanasi for its Spiritual Trails
One among the most famous pilgrimage locations in India and also well known for Indian Philosophy and spiritualism. Along with the Ganges, it is filled with temples, ghats, and narrow lanes. The most famous temples to be visited in Varanasi are the Vishwanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Alamgir Mosque are a few to name. A truly divine place to be.
7. Jaipur for its culture
Being the state capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is one destination to be visited. It is also known as the ‘Pink City’ of India. This place is a living example of royal Indian traditions and culture. Places to be visited in Jaipur include City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and Amber Fort.
8. Jaisalmer for its tradition
Also known as the ‘Golden City of Temple’, Jaisalmer is one location that should not be missed out. The pleasant climate could be enjoyed thoroughly with a beautiful Camel Ride. The places to be visited in Jaisalmer are Golden Fort, Desert National Park, Merchant Haveli, and Jain temples. The Camel ride enables you to get a glimpse of the real Rajasthan and the majestic past of Forts and Havelis.
9. Agra for the Taj
Having one of the seven wonders of the world- ‘Taj Mahal’, Agra does not require any introduction. It is known the world over and thousands of tourists come to this place every year. Apart from the Taj Mahal, Agra is also known for other beautiful locations like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Itmad-Ud-Daullah Tomb, etc. On a full moon night, the Taj Mahal is a real treat for your eyes. One place that could never be missed out.
10. Delhi for its chaotic patterns
The Capital of India does have great treats for you with Historical places and Heritage monuments. A beautiful mix of the old heritage and current modern lifestyle go hand in hand without overpowering each other. The beautiful attractions of Delhi include Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Akshardham Temple, Lotus temple, and India Gate.
Apart from these locations, Delhi is also called as Shoppers Stop for the great shopping experience it provides. Shopping at Janpath Market, Lajpat Nagar Market or the Sarojini Nagar Market would just get you loads of great stuff that you have been looking out for.
These are some of the few destinations in North India. There are many more that could be visited and which has many beautiful places. So pack your bags and get ready for a great vacation to explore the adventures, culture, heritage, and beauty of North India together.
Photo Courtesy – Ahmed Sajjad Zaidi, Nitin Gupta, Amod Sane, Ashley Vincent, Michael Vickers, Paul Garret, Woosra Kim, Aman Dhingra, Piet Flour, Martin Dudek
