Best Cities To Visit In India - A Traveler's Paradise

India, an expansive and awe-inspiring nation, is renowned for its remarkable cities that embody the country's rich traditions, vibrant culture, and zest for life. As a top-tier travel destination, India presents a wealth of captivating experiences. From the relaxed and open-minded ambiance of Goa and Kerala in the south to the time-worn desert forts of Rajasthan, the country exudes an enigmatic and enchanting allure.

India stands as a powerhouse, surging forward into the modern era, resulting in cities that effortlessly blend urban innovation with its profound historical roots. Technological advancements, economic prosperity, socio-economic disparities, and ancient architectural wonders coexist harmoniously in these thriving urban landscapes.

In this article, we will explore the best cities to visit in India, where each step unveils a new facet of India's diverse and enchanting tapestry.

Best cities to visit in India - A traveler's paradise

Top Cities To Visit In India - Discover The Best

Mumbai - The city of dreams

Mumbai (formerly Bombay), widely regarded as the "City of Dreams," stands as the epitome of urban dynamism and vibrant aspirations and the ideal location to feel the pulse of contemporary India. With its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and pulsating energy, Mumbai has become the most visited city in India, attracting travelers from all walks of life.

Mumbai is also renowned for being a city on the edge; although its skyscrapers reach the heavens, its slums teem with life. This extraordinary blend of affluence and poverty creates a unique urban landscape that serves as a driving force for India's progress - you must see this most populated city in India to believe it.

Don't leave Mumbai without trying the city's iconic snack, bhel poori: puffed rice and fried dough with lentils, onions, herbs, and savory chutneys. The hour-long ferry voyage to Elephanta Island's 1500-year-old rock-cut temples, a World Heritage Site, is also the city's unmissable adventure.

Mumbai - The most visited city in India

Varanasi - A spiritual odyssey

There's no denying the fact that Varanasi is not a destination for contemporary art or pristine beaches. Instead, it holds the esteemed position of being India's spiritual epicenter, where devotees gather to immerse themselves in the sacred waters of the Ganges at the break of dawn and where many Hindus seek their final breath in the pursuit of moksha, the ultimate liberation of the soul. 

Prepare to be transported back in time as you witness age-old death rituals that unfold daily along the serene banks of the sacred Ganges in Varanasi. It is here that you will come face to face with the profound cycle of life and death. Take a deep breath and allow yourself to be immersed in this deeply transformative experience. The experience of Varanasi can be overwhelming, but it is also an incredibly humbling journey that cannot be replicated anywhere else on Earth.

Bangalore

India's high-tech hub city is in the south and has grown into a thriving multicultural center of industry, nightlife, and open spaces. This expanding and lively city has developed as a cultural hotspot for shopping, eating, drinking, and having a good time.

Bangalore's contemporary attitude makes it a place for tourists to unwind and let their hair down. Enjoy lunch at independent cafés and stroll through the city's many parks, but don't forget to stop by Krishnarajendra Market for a taste of everything Indian.

Kolkata - The old capital of India

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, stands as one of the most famous tourist cities in India, renowned for its long and complex history. As the former capital of British India and still the country's second-largest city, Kolkata offers a plethora of experiences that captivate the senses and ignite the imagination.

Immerse yourself in Kolkata's rich history by wandering through the historic buildings of BBD Bagh, once occupied by the East India Company. Feel a sense of the city's erstwhile international splendor as you explore its diverse architectural wonders, from Jewish synagogues to Armenian churches and Chinese emporiums in Barabazar.

You can enroll in a Bengali cooking class or even work as a volunteer at Mother Teresa's renowned Missionaries of Charity organization to really get a feel for the city. Either way, don't miss an overnight excursion to the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, which is close by and has one of the largest concentrations of royal Bengal tigers on Earth.

Kolkata - One of the most famous tourist cities in India

Udaipur - The venice of the East

Prepare to be enchanted by the romantic allure of Udaipur, often hailed as the Venice of the East. This city of lakes, nestled on the edge of the desert in Rajasthan, exudes an irresistible charm that captivates the soul. 

The ethereal Lake Palace, seemingly floating on Lake Pichola, invites you to step into a world of regal indulgence. Lose yourself in the majestic City Palace, a treasure trove of art and architecture, offering breathtaking vistas of the city below. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the old city, where vibrant markets showcase intricate handicrafts and the aroma of traditional Rajasthani delicacies permeates the air. As dusk settles, glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola and witness the city's enchanting beauty illuminated by a thousand shimmering lights.

Jaipur - The pink city 

India’s celebrated “Pink City” has become a muse for virtually every designer and photographer in the world. As a beautiful city in India, Jaipur captivates visitors with its rich history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant culture.     

Jaipur has long served as a breeding ground for creative talent,  leading the way in everything, such as printed batik textiles and ceramics, as well as the art of emerald cutting. The city is also celebrated for its architectural marvels, ranging from the picturesque Amber Fort with its blush-toned façade to the iconic havelis and resplendent palaces adorned with jewel-toned hues. 

When it comes to accommodations, have you ever wondered how royalty lives? It's a question that piques the curiosity of many. Indulge your fascination by booking a stay at the Rajmahal Palace, where the Maharaja of Jaipur still officially resides. 

Jaipur - As a beautiful city in India

Delhi - A bustling metropolis

When it comes to the top tourist cities in India, one cannot fail to mention Delhi. This Indian capital has always been synonymous with vibrant life, seamlessly intertwining the past and the future. Despite its congested streets, crowded markets, and bustling train stations, Delhi possesses an undeniable charm that appeals to many.

A must-visit attraction is the magnificent Red Fort, dating back to the 17th century, where the grandeur of Mughal architecture leaves visitors in awe. From there, hop into a tuk-tuk and make your way to Jama Masjid, Delhi's iconic mosque, where you can bask in the serene ambiance and be greeted by warm smiles. For a small fee, ascend to the top of the mosque's tower and marvel at a panoramic view of the city from above.

Rishikesh 

When the Beatles stayed at a Himalayan ashram in the 1960s, they revealed a spiritual secret to the entire hemisphere. Rishikesh, home to the first known ashram, has long been treasured as a pilgrimage location by Hindus and as the birthplace of yoga in India. Meditation and a bath in the Ganges — here at its most accessible point, amid swiftly flowing waters beneath wooded slopes — are thought to hasten the path to enlightenment. Make sure to arrive in town around twilight, when a breeze sweeps down the river, amplifying the clang of the temple bells before the ganga aarti (river worship rite).

Jodhpur

Rajasthan's "cobalt city"—a much-searched reminder of Jodhpur's Brahmins, who painted their walls blue to deter insects and keep the city cool in summer—may appear to play second fiddle to its more famous rosy-hued sister, but that doesn't mean it should; this place is magnetic enough on its own. It is one of the most prominent architectural sites in the nation, home to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, the Mandore Gardens (where the Maharajas resided before moving to Mehrangarh), and the Jaswant Thada monument. Don't miss the lakes, either; the natural ecosystem in the region is spectacular.

Agra

Agra is recognized for one thing: the famous and ultimately breathtaking Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal, located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, attracts millions of tourists yearly. Built by an emperor as an opulent tribute to his wife, the mausoleum's porcelain white marble represents passion, love, and adventure.

Agra is under the shadow of its towering monument, yet it is a tiny and friendly city. The historic Mughal-era Agra Fort is a popular tourist attraction; peek over the walls to capture your first hypnotizing view of the Taj Mahal.

Hyderabad

The timeworn, ancient streets of Hyderabad's old town are rich with history and provide an intriguing look into a bygone India. Take a walk through its crooked, meandering lanes and let the rainbow of colors, fragrances, and people wash over you.
This is a place where you may learn more about India's Islamic culture and get a peek of India's pioneering high-tech future in this business-focused center known as 'Cyberbad'. A vacation to the city isn't complete without seeing the massive and majestic Golconda Fort.

Pune

Pune, a sprawling and vibrant city, embodies India's future objectives. The city is a hub of commerce and education, but it also has a rich cultural heritage. This bustling student metropolis aspires for the India of the future while still honoring its traditions and past.

There are other temples to visit, including the 2,000-year-old Sinhagad Fort and the Shaniwar Wada Palace, which was erected in 1740 and has a gate wide enough for an elephant to walk through.

Kochi

Kochi, in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is a breath of fresh air. The city, located on the coast, has a distinct atmosphere when compared to other northern metropolises. Since it first began trading with Arabs, Chinese, and Europeans, the port town has been a melting pot of cultures.
Foreign influences may be evident throughout the city, from the tiled bungalows of Fort Kochi to the iconic cantilevered Chinese fishing nets.

Pushkar

Pushkar is a beautiful white city built around a beautiful and sacred lake. If you are travelling to India in late October or early November, you should see if your travel dates overlap with the world famous Pushkar Camel Fair. This multi-day event is unlike any other and makes Pushkar one of the best places to visit on your first visit to India.

The Pushkar Camel Fair combines a large livestock fair with a sacred pilgrimage to Pushkar, home to the world's only Brahma temple. The fair kicks off with a camel race and the following days are filled with a series of colourful exhibitions, concerts and performances.

Interestingly, Pushkar is a 'vegan' city, meaning that all restaurants in the city follow the Hindu diet. There is no meat, chicken, fish or even eggs on the menu, making it a great destination for vegetarian travellers. There is a wide variety of Indian vegetarian dishes, and even devout meat-eaters will love Pushkar's meatless meals.

If you're looking for interesting Pushkar hotel options, consider PushkarOrganic, a new organic farm stay (with a pool!) ), which is easily accessible by rickshaw from the lake.

Essential Tips For Exploring The Best Cities To Visit In India

India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, offers a plethora of captivating cities to explore. To make the most of your journey, here are some essential tips to keep in mind when visiting the best cities in India.

• Plan your itinerary: India is vast and diverse, so it's crucial to plan your itinerary in advance.
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit India is during the winter (December to early March). From April on, it usually gets very hot, and from June through September, most places experience the summer monsoon.
• Obtain an Indian eVisa: To simplify your travel preparations, consider contacting India Immigration Services. This online platform offers a convenient and secure way to obtain your Indian visa, saving you time and effort. 
• Understand cultural diversity: India is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. Respect the local customs and traditions of each city you visit. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and etiquette.

Remember, each city in India has its own charm and attractions. By following these essential tips, you can make the most of your journey and create unforgettable memories as you explore the best cities that India has to offer.