15 Most Exciting Places to Visit in North India in 2024

The charm of India is beyond imagination. I've travelled extensively in South and East India. You can find several guides on my blog related to these regions. Since I haven't explored the north much, I invited our guest writer to talk about the best places to visit in North India in 2021.

This year has not been kind to humanity, but I hope 2021 will be awesome. With that wish, over to our guest writer Rekha.

The perfect blend of vibrant culture, fascinating traditions, historical structures, and rich wildlife makes North India a paradisiacal part of the country. Its scenic natural vistas make it a sought-after destination and one of the best places to travel in India. It's blessed with awe-inspiring natural treasures and has several beautiful places to explore.

With remnants of erstwhile kingdoms, spiritual centers, picturesque mountains, lush valleys, and cities doused in historical hues; North India has a lot more to offer. Apart from its scenic beauty to admire, the wide varieties of delicious cuisines and adventure sports are difficult to resist.

Here is a compiled list of the best places in North India that you can include in your trips. Whether it is a honeymoon, family holiday, adventure, or spiritual quest; North India is always ready to satisfy the wandered and explorer in you.

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You can also read my post about the best places to visit in South India.

Delhi

Having witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties, Delhi boasts of several monuments, heritage sites, and colorful culture. Additionally, it has various shopping destinations, lip-smacking Indian street food, and a happening nightlife. Think of the best tourist places in North India and Delhi tops the list.

Places to Visit: Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Gardens, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Akshardham Temple, Jama Masjid, Jantar Mantar, Lotus Temple, and many more
How to reach: Take a flight to the Indira Gandhi International Airport or board a train to any of the railway stations in Delhi.

Agra

Agra counts among the top places to visit in North India and that too for all the right reasons. The historical city in Uttar Pradesh boasts of three UNESCO World Heritage sites, exceptional architecture, vibrant local markets, and delectable street food.

Places to Visit: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Akbar’s Tomb, Fatehpur Sikri, Chini-ka-Rauza, and I’timād-ud-Daulah or Baby Taj
How to reach: Take a flight to Agra Airport and drive to Agra. You can also board a train to Agra.

Jaipur

Jaipur is the capital of royal Rajasthan and one of the most fascinating travel destinations in India. Vibrant, historical, and cultural; the “Pink City” is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its majestic past is visible in the form of palaces, forts, and monuments. Jaipur is a major stop for heritage tours of Rajasthan.

Places to visit: Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jai Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum, Birla Mandir, Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, GaltaJi Temple, and Bapu Bazaar.
How to reach: Board a flight to Jaipur International Airport or take a train to Jaipur. You can also choose a Golden Triangle Tour to visit the city along with Delhi and Agra.

Manali

Snuggled in the Himalayas, Manali in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most visited hill stations. It is also among the best places to visit in India in summer. Bask in the bliss of snow-covered mountains, meadows blooming with flowers, swift rivers, and hot springs. You can also try river-rafting, paragliding, skiing, trekking, or camping.

Places to visit: Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Manu Temple, Nehru Kund, Arjun Gufa, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Great Himalayan National Park, Rahala Falls and much more.
How to reach:  Take a flight to the Bhuntar Airport or drive to Manali from Delhi.

Looking for a less touristy place for family trip? Read to plan the perfect family trip to Dalhousie, Khajjar and Chamba.

Haridwar and Rishikesh

The sacred towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh are settled at the foothills of the Himalayas by the River Ganga. Both towns have a serene aura that attracts tourists from across the world. Along with spiritual bliss, there is a lot for thrill-seekers. River rafting, camping, trekking, and bungee jumping are some exciting activities that make Rishikesh one of the most popular adventure spots in North India.

Places to visit: Har ki Pauri Ghat, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Shanti Kunj Ashram, Rajaji National Park, Ganga Aarti, Yoga retreats, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Neelkanth Mahadev.
How to reach: Board a flight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and later drive to Haridwar. You can also choose to take a flight to Haridwar Railway Station.

Amritsar

One of the most popular tourist places in North India, Amritsar is the city of history, spirituality, and some amazing experiences. Home to the holiest shrine of the Sikhs, the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib), the city offers experiences to cherish.

Places to visit: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Akal Takht, Partition Museum, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Durgiana Temple, Gobindgarh Fort, Central Sikh Museum, and Wagah Border
How to reach: Take a flight to Amritsar International Airport or board a train to Amritsar Junction.

Udaipur

When counting the must-visit places in India, Udaipur deserves special mention. Nestled at the foothills of the Aravalli hills and dotted with lakes, Udaipur earns bonus points for tourists with palaces, architectural delights, lush gardens, amazing boat rides, luxury stay at heritage hotels, shopping, and folk performances.

Places to visit: City Palace, Taj Lake Palace, Sajjangarh Palace, Lake Pichola, Jaisamand Lake, Udaisagar Lake, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Jagmandir, Jagdish Temple, Fateh Sagar Lake, Ahar Cenotaphs, Shilpgram, Bagore Haveli, Maharana Pratap Memorial, and Vintage Car Museum
How to reach: Arrive by flight to Udaipur Airport or board a train to Udaipur.

Nainital with Jim Corbett National Park

Combining the scenic beauty of mountains with wildlife safaris, Nainital with Jim Corbett offers a memorable holiday in North India. The scenic hill station in Uttarakhand is the perfect retreat for families, honeymoon couples, and even solo backpackers. The scenic bliss soothes your weary soul. Jim Corbett is India’s first national park that is home to tigers. After a pleasant holiday amid hills, wildlife safaris offer the perfect thrill.

Places to visit: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, G B Pant Zoo, Snow View Point, Governor House, Land’s End, and Nainital Ropeway
How to reach: Drive from Delhi or board a train to Kathgodam railway stations and then drive to Nainital and Jim Corbett National Park.

Varanasi

Steeped in spirituality, Varanasi is among the must-visit places in North India. As old as Indian civilization, a silent witness to eras and rituals from life to death, Varanasi blesses you. Settled along the holy river Ganga, the city is dotted with temples. Watch the sacred Ganga Aarti or enjoy the sunrise on a boat ride. Stroll down the ghats, try out street food, and discover the artisans’ villages.

Places to visit: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Alamgir Mosque, Ganga Aarti, Dhamek Stupa, Ramnagar Fort, Sarnath Museum, and Chaukhandi Stupa
How to reach: Arrive by flight at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or by train at Varanasi Junction.

Kashmir

If there is heaven on earth, it is in Kashmir! The abundance of natural beauty makes it one of the top places to visit in North India. From snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, mesmerizing lakes, and expansive gardens; Kashmir is truly blessed.

Srinagar attracts vacationers with shikara rides, houseboat stays, and lush Mughal Gardens. Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are the ideal getaways for skiing and winter sports.

Places to visit: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahal, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Chashme Shahi, Hazratbal Shrine, Hari Parbat, Betaab Valley, Sonmarg, Gulmarg Gondola, and Pahalgam
How to reach: Land at Srinagar airport or drive from Jammu to Kashmir.

Shimla

Shimla offers a unique travel experience. The picturesque capital city of Himachal Pradesh is dotted by snow-capped mountains, forests, lush green valleys, and pleasant weather. Shimla is one of the best honeymoon destinations in North India, be it summer or winter.

Best Places to visit: The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Hill and Temple, Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railway,Tara Devi Temple, Kufri, Chail, and more.
How to reach: Board a flight to Chandigarh Airport and drive to Shimla. Alternatively, board the Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railway.

Ladakh

Ladakh is a remote region tucked between the high mountain ranges of Himalayas and Karakoram in North India. The “Land of the High Passes” is quite unique as the landscapes vary from rugged mountains to pristine blue lakes, lush green pockets to the cold desert to meandering rivers.

Ladakh is home to several ancient Tibetan monasteries. Adventure is synonymous to Ladakh as it offers trekking, camping, road trips, river rafting, and desert safaris.

Places to visit: Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Thiksey Monastery, Leh Palace, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Tso Kar and Hemis Monastery
How to reach: Board a flight to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. Or, you can choose a road trip from Manali.

Ladakh is an offbeat destination where you can enjoy tranquility and raw beauty of nature. If you are more interested in such places read my post on the best offbeat places to visit in India.

Jaisalmer

Standing at the edge of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is among the best places to visit in Rajasthan. Titled as the “Golden City” owing to the desert as well as a yellow-sandstone fortress, the city has much to offer. The historical forts, havelis, cenotaphs, and magnificent Hindu and Jain temples are visual treats. Desert safari and camping at Sam sand dunes are an unforgettable experience.

Places to visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Gadi Sagar, Salam Singh Ki Haweli, Nathmal ki Haveli, Desert Culture Centre and Museum,  day-trip to Desert National Park and more.
How to reach: Land at Jaisalmer Airport or Jaisalmer Railway station.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

What makes North India tours unique are the mountains and this valley is truly among the most beautiful places in India. Away from the hustle-bustle of cities, the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is a place un-spoilt by mankind.

A part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere, this valley is extremely special as every year after the rains, it transforms into a carpet of flowers. More than 300 species of mountain flowers bloom in every shade possible.

Places to visit: Gobindghat, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and Hemkund Sahib Lake
How to reach: Arrive at Dehradun Airport or railway station. Drive to Gobindghat and trek to the valley.

Ranthambore

The sanctuary of tigers, Ranthambore in Rajasthan is one of the most popular places for wildlife tours in India. Formerly the hunting grounds of the royal family, the reserve is now home to tigers, crocodiles, chinkara deers, birds, and other species of wildlife. The regal Ranthambore Fort, picturesque lakes, and peaceful wildlife resorts are other attractions.

Places to visit: Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Ranthambore Fort, Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Surwal Lake, Padam Lake, Kachida Valley, and Ranthambore Schools of Art
How to reach: Board a flight to the Jaipur International Airport and drive to Ranthambore or arrive by train at the Sawai Madhopur Railway Station.

In a nutshell, North India offers a vast range of holiday destinations that offer you travel experiences to cherish lifelong. Take up the golden chance to indulge in a magnificent mix of traditions, festivals, and spiritual beliefs. The northern part of the country is blessed with the opulence of the bygone era while matching the needs of modern-day tourists. So, travel across these North Indian tourist places that embody India's heritage and culture along with natural beauty.

Miss travelling? Check out the best books about India to travel virtually.

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About Author

Rekha Bisht is a travel enthusiast who loves to visit the most popular as well as offbeat places of the world. She loves to share her travel experiences with fellow travelers. For planning memorable holidays in India or any world destination, you follow her write-ups.