Snow, Sand & Road: The 23 Most Beautiful Places In India

India is as diverse as it is vast. It is also a country that sees many cultures come together, celebrating their differences and living in harmony. Similarly, there are varied locations in India that emphasize the beauty and diversity of the country.

These range from scorching desserts to chilly hill stations. You can expect to find beauty and unique experiences in all parts of the country. Read our list of the most beautiful places in India. Let’s check them out.

Beautiful places in India: Northern Region

1. Manali

Manali is a town located in the valley by the Beas River. It is enveloped by the Pir Panjal mountain range to its east. Most people come here to relax in the villages nearby, where you can experience a bit of hippie culture. Adventure enthusiasts are also drawn to the natural terrain that makes for good trekking, climbing and mountain biking. Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley Pandoh Dam are also big draws for tourists.

• Best time to visit Manali: May to October

2. Khajjiar

Khajjiar is located in near the Himalayan Mountain Range in Himachal Pradesh. Khajjiar is blessed with beautiful green meadows and forests that overlook the grand Himalayan peaks. The place is the perfect holiday destination for couples and families as it is scenic and beautiful – often referred to as a “Mini Switzerland”.

• Best time to visit Khajjiar: March to October

3. Dalhousie

Dalhousie is the gateway that connects the Chamba District to Himachal Pradesh. There are several ancient Hindu temples, as well as arts and handicrafts that have been preserved and practiced in Dalhousie. This hill station was named after the British governor who fell in love with its natural landscape. Dalhousie is so quaint and stunning, it will feel like a town from a fairy tale. The Panch Pulla, Satdhara Falls, Khajjiar and Dainkund Peak are nearby places that you can visit.

• Best time to visit Dalhousie: March to May

4. Ladakh

Ladakh is a piece of heaven on earth. It is the home to many Buddhist monks and there are many monasteries here. Ladakh is surrounded by the picture perfect Himalayan mountain range, a backdrop that leaves visitors awestruck. There are plenty of treks and adventure activities here. People also love riding and driving to Ladakh because of the challenging and scenic routes. Pangong Lake, Magnetic Hill, Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri are some tourist attractions to enjoy.

• Best time to visit: May to September

5. Gulmarg

Gulmarg is the foremost town when it comes to skiing in India. It lies in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir and stands at 2,650 meters above sea level. Snow-clad pine trees give Gulmarg its signature postcard look. It has one of the highest located gondola rides in the world, connecting the main town to the nearby Apharwat Peak. There’s also a golf club that was built by the British here; it is the highest green golf club in the world.

• Best time to visit: December to February

6. Varanasi

Varanasi is known to be as old as the Indus Valley civilization. The city is considered holy because of its proximity to the Ganga River. The Ganga aarti, which is a ritual conducted to please the gods, is conducted in the evenings by the banks of the river and is a delight to watch. People flock to Varanasi to connect with their spiritual side. During the winters there are events and festivals where tourists can experience the city in its true splendor.

• Best time to visit: September to March

7. Agra

An ancient city, with mentions in records as far as back the Mahabharata, Agra is better known today as the location of the Taj Mahal. The city houses three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri. In Agra, you can see the cultural influence from the Mughal era. There are many mausoleums and tombs of famous Mughal leaders. Don’t forget to eat petha, a famous sweet made in Agra.

• Best time to visit: November to March

Also Check Treebo Hotels in Agra 

8. Jaisalmer

Popularly known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is surrounded by the Thar Desert that gives it its golden tinge. There are many colorful villages close to Jaisalmer that you can visit to get a taste of hardcore Rajasthani culture. Go on a camel safari in the desert and, at night, enjoy delicious Rajasthani food as you watch the locals perform.

• Best time to Visit: November to March
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Jaisalmer 

9. Udaipur

Udaipur is known for its many lakes, the most famous being Lake Pichola, with its crystal blue water that reflects every ounce of light that falls on it. The city is lined with palaces, temples, ghats and hillsides. In the evenings, you can take a peaceful boat ride on one of the lakes or just have a nice walk around.

• Best time to Visit: September to December
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Udaipur

10. Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar is a waterfall that is located 60 kilometres from Panaji in Goa. Massive amounts of water gushing down the multiple tiers of the hill give the waterfall a milky white look and feel, hence the name. Local legend states that the waterfalls are a result of a princess pouring down milk to form a veil. Whichever story you believe, there is no denying the fact that that falls are absolutely gorgeous.

• Best time to Visit: November to February

11. Goa

In India, and for many foreign tourists, it just doesn’t get better than Goa. You have the cheap alcohol, great food, delightful beaches and great company.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Goa 

12. Kutch

Kutch, also known as the Rann of Kutch, is a wetland in Gujarat. The wetland is generally submerged during the monsoon. However, as summer sets in the water begin to recede and what’s left is flat surfaces laden with salt. The salt flatlands give a surreal white hue to the landscape of Kutch. There are many exotic bird species that you can spot here, too.

• Best time to visit: July to March

13. Gir National Forest

Gir National is the one and only sanctuary in India dedicated to the Asiatic Lion. The favorable climate and natural setting make it the perfect habitat for these stately beasts. You can spot lions during a guided safari that is conducted at the park. The park is also enveloped by 400 species of vegetation.

• Best time to visit: December to March

You may also like to read: National parks in India

14. Lonavala

Lonavala is a hill station nestled in the Sahyadri Hills in Maharashtra. It offers great views of the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan coast. Lonavala is known for its pleasant climate and lush greenery. The hill station has many forts and caves that make for good trekking spots. It is also a great getaway during the monsoons, frequented by the citizens of Mumbai and Pune.

• Best time to visit: October to May
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Lonavala

15. Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the heart of the western ghats in Maharashtra. It houses one of the last known evergreen forests in India. Mahabaleshwar is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is surrounded by gigantic peaks and green valleys that make it an ideal place to relax. The famous Trimbakeshwar Temple, which holds one of the lingams of Lord Shiva is also located here.

• Best time to visit: June to September
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Mahabaleshwar

Beautiful places in India: Southern Region

16. Coorg

Coorg lies in the western ghats that line up with Karnataka’s southernmost border. Coorgs’ fertile land has made it a hub for many plant-based estates. You can find an abundance of coffee and pepper estates in Coorg that also conducts guided tours if you wish to engage in one. You can also get to witness the charm and the high spirits of the Corgi people that will leave you coming back for more.

• Best time to visit Coorg: October to March
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Coorg

17. Hampi

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka. The city was once at the pinnacle of its power in the 14th century, however, due to foreign forces constantly invading the city, it was left in ruins. Despite this, the beauty of the city is not lost. The city is surrounded by beautiful palm groves and massive boulders where adventure activities are conducted.

• Best time to visit: November to May

18. Alleppey

Alleppey is in Kerala and is one of the most visited destinations in the south. The city is filled with inviting churches and temples, where you can admire the architecture and soak in the spirituality. The city is connected to inland water channels and is called the “Venice of the East”. You can rent a houseboat and spend a day on the backwaters.

• Best time to visit: November to February
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Alleppey 

19. Ooty

Ooty is an extremely popular hill station in Tamil Nadu.  Despite seeing a major rise in the number of tourists visiting the hill station every year, it has managed to remain free of commercialisation. Ooty’s fertile land has made it a prime agricultural spot as well. The Botanical Garden, Avalanche Lake, and the Pykara Waterfall are some of the popular tourist attractions here.

• Best time to visit: March to June
• Where to Stay : Treebo Hotels in Ooty

Beautiful places in India: Eastern region

20. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a town located in the Himalayan region of West Bengal. It is located at a staggering altitude of 6000 feet above sea level and is blessed with a pleasant climate. The climate along with the land makes it an ideal place to cultivate tea and you will see plenty of tea estates. You can watch the riveting sunset while sipping on a hot cup of tea here.

• Best time to visit: November to February

21. Dimapur

Dimapur is the most commercially important city of Nagaland. It is the only city in all of Nagaland connected by rail and is a vital trading center. Dimapur was the last known home of the Kachari Dynasty, whose relics can still be spotted through the city. It is surrounded by Medziphema, Aoimti and Aoyimukum villages that exude the true Naga culture.

• Best time to visit: January to April

22. Khajuraho

Khajuraho is known for its ancient temples and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are known for the nagara influence in the architecture and carvings. It is said that 85 temples were built by the 12th century, sprawling over 20 square kilometers. However, only 25 temples have survived. Most of the temples were built by the Chandela dynasty.

• Best time to visit: November to February

You may also like to read: World heritage sites in India

23. Konark

Konark is the home to the famous Sun Temple in Odisha. Konark is the perfect balance of history, culture, and beauty. The famous Sun Festival, which is a five-day long dance festival, is conducted at the Sun Temple and is a spectacle to witness. Konark hosts a handicraft exhibition where local Oriya artists gather and display their work.

• Best time to visit: September to March

There you have it, every place mentioned in the list above is unique and beautiful in its own way. If you are planning on touring the country or just looking for one beautiful place to visit, do check out our list and let us know of your experiences in the comments section below.