Where to Travel in India Based on Your Vacation Style
Trying to decide where to travel in India? Check out these top destinations in India based on your vacation style!
There are so many reasons why India attracts tourists year-round from all over the world! It’s a huge and diverse country where each state is vastly different from the one next to it. This can make it a bit challenging to decide where to travel in India!
This post has the top destinations in India based on your vacation style! Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxing beaches, city life, cultural hotspots or wanting to dive into your spirituality, this list has recommendations for each type of experience!
Having lived in India for 7 years and traveling all around the country in that time, I have had many different types of trips! From visiting ashrams, snorkeling in clear water beaches and rafting on the Ganges River, there is such a wide variety of places for travelers to explore!
This post is all about where to travel in India based on your vacation style.
Where to Travel in India for your Vacation Style
Explore where to travel in India for adventure, relaxation, culture, cities, nature, and spirituality!
Where to Travel in India for Adventure
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers! It’s located in Kashmir in northern India. Kashmir is famous for it’s natural beauty full of mountains, valleys and lakes and there are many places around the state worth visiting. But, Gulmarg is one of the best spots for adventure sports!
Gulmarg is most famous for its world-class ski resorts and snowboarding opportunities. It’s got one of the highest cable cars in the world with breath-traking views of the surrounding mountains.
In the spring and summer the city is full of lush green meadows and there are many treks to experience the mountains and lakes. It’s also a nice spot for golfing and it is home to the highest green golf course in the world!
Manali
Manali is a picturesque town in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. It’s famous for the stunning views and adventure opportunities! Depending on what time of year you travel, you’ll enjoy snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
There are so many adventure sports to enjoy in Manali and it’s well-known for thrill-seekers. Skiing, paragliding, and hiking are some of the most popular activities you’ll find here. Personally, Himachal is one of my favorite states to travel in India because it’s so beautiful, inviting and there’s many different things to try!
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a popular destination in the foothills of the Himalayas. It’s in Uttarakhand in north India and draws adventure seekers year round. Along with being known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” there are many activities for travelers wanting to embrace nature and the stunning surrounding mountains.
One of the most recommended adventure sports is River Rafting in Rishikesh on the sacred Ganges River. There’s also tons of trekking routes to picturesque waterfalls and temples, zip-lining and paragliding. It’s the perfect place for spiritual seekers and adrenaline junkies alike!
Where to Travel in India for Relaxation
Goa
Goa is a coastal paradise on the western shores of India. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations and draws in people from all over the world. You’ll definitely see many other foreigners while traveling to Goa.
It’s the perfect place to relax on the beach and soak in the sun. The water is clean and is calm for swimming. Depending on what you are looking for, you can find luxurious beach resorts or laid back hotels.
While most of the time spent in Goa is hanging out at the beach and relaxing, there are also options for snorkeling, surfing, dolphin-spotting and more. It’s also known for having a vibrant nightlife and music scene depending on what beach you go to.
To learn more about Goa, check out these 7 Best Goa Beaches for your trip!
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in India! They are a group of islands in the Bay of Bengal with clear water that makes for a dreamy beach vacation.
The main thing to do is enjoy lazing around and soaking in the sun. There are many resorts across the islands and the water is crystal clear! It’s a popular place for scuba diving and snorkeling, or just enjoying the sunrise and sunsets.
There is also a national park for travelers wanting some hiking and a Cellular Jail in the capital city, Port Blair, which showcases some fascinating history about the island’s colonial use.
If you’re looking for a trip where you can hang out and relax by the clear water and coral reefs, Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the place to go!
Coorg
Coorg is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, towards the western coast of India. It’s famous for its lush greenery and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. If you want a relaxing getaway that’s not on the beach, Coorg is the place to go!
The landscape and natural beauty surrounding Coorg is unbeatable. It’s known as the “Scotland of India” and is an ideal retreat for nature lovers. If you feel like leaving the views of your hotel or resort, there are beautiful waterfalls to explore.
Coorg is also known for it’s surrounding coffee plantations. Enjoy a coffee tour and relax with a delicious cup of joe while soaking in the picturesque scenery.
Where to Travel in India for Culture
Jaipur
Jaipur is one of the most iconic cities in India, also known as the “Pink City.” It’s full of rich history, vibrant culture and stunning architecture! It’s really a picturesque city.
With a royal heritage, there are many popular places to visit in Jaipur. Amber Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal are stunning testament to the city’s rich history. There are also lively markets full of colorful handicrafts and jewelry.
Jaipur is also one of the most traveled destinations in India because it is near the Taj Mahal in Agra and Delhi. Many people travel through the “Golden Triangle” which is a tourist route that reaches Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest living cities! If you’re wondering where to travel in India where you can learn about the history and culture, Varanasi is the perfect stop. It’s situated along the sacred Ganges River and has played an important part in India’s cultural heritage for generations.
The city is full of small, bustling alleyways and markets. Most famously, people enjoy spending time near the Ganges River and participating in the daily Ganga Aarti, a ceremonial ritual.
Varanasi is also home to hundreds of temples and is an important destination for pilgrims wanting to cleanse themselves in the holy water of the Ganges. It’s also an auspicious place for cremations which are openly done along the banks of the river.Varanasi is a great experience into India’s traditions and spirituality. It’s authentic and captivating and unlike any other place in India! Check out these top 15 Places to Visit in Varanasi to learn more about what makes this city so unique.
Kolkata
Known as the “Cultural Capital of India” and the “City of Joy,” Kolkata is a top destination for travelers in India. It used to be the capital during British rule which is evident in the architecture around the city.
Kolkata is famous for its love of the arts and literature. The famous attractions include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the lively Park Street area full of good shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. Kolkata is also home to Mother Theresa’s convent and small museum about her life.Kolkata is one of my favorite places to visit in India and is also near Sundarbans National Park, where you can enjoy a safari and take in the natural world outside of the city. But the city itself is a cultural hub and a great destination to explore. Don’t miss these 10 Things to Do in Kolkata while you’re there!
Amritsar
Amritsar is a unique destination in India for history enthusiasts. Located on the border of Pakistan, it is a city with a rich history.
One of the most popular things to do in Amritsar is to visit the Wagah Border with and witness the daily ceremony performed by both countries. There is also an incredible museum (I’d argue it’s the best museum I’ve been to in India) about the partition when India and Pakistan became two different countries.
Amritsar is also home to the famous Golden Temple which is also surrounded by a pool of water. On a very different note, there is also some amazing food to try and tons of great restaurants and dhabas!
City Experiences
Mumbai
Mumbai is a huge city on the western coast of India. It’s known as the “Financial Capital of India” and most famously, it’s the home of Bollywood! If you’re looking to experience urban life in India, Mumbai is the perfect destination.
Visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, the Taj Hotel and Marine Drive along the coast. The city is always bustling and is full of incredible restaurants and a fun night life. Not to mention, the street food is amazing!
The city is growing rapidly and there are so many fun things to do. It’s also relatively modern to other parts of the country and is very safe, including for women.Learn what makes Mumbai so special and be sure to check out 13 Famous Places in Mumbai when you go!
Delhi
Wondering where to travel in India? Surely you have heard about Delhi! Delhi is the capital of India and is a melting pot of history, culture and modernity.
Some of the most famous things to see in Delhi include the massive Red Fort, the Qutub Minar and the Lotus Temple which welcomes people of all faiths. There are tons of areas and markets for shopping and endless options for great food!
Delhi is a beautiful place to explore with stunning views. There’s also a metro that is well-maintained and makes traveling around the city easy. Delhi is the perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle!
Bangalore
Bangalore is an amazing city for travelers in India! It’s known as the “Silicon Valley of India” and is growing at an incredible speed. It’s home to a thriving tech industry which has led to a cosmopolitan culture full of start-ups, trendy cafes and vibrant nightlife.
The city is spread out and full of beautiful parks and gardens too. Bangalore Palace is one of the top sights to see in the city and Bangalore is also known for its delicious South Indian food!
Even though I love so many destinations across India, Bangalore is probably my favorite city to go to! Unlike the other major cities, it feels a bit less chaotic because there is more space. I also love all the breweries and food joints that are unique and fun!
Where to Travel in India for Wildlife & Nature
Kochi
Kochi is a beautiful and serene little city located in Kerala on the eastern coast of India. It’s famous for its enchanting backwaters and rich wildlife. There are also several nearby wildlife sanctuaries which are ideal for animal enthusiasts like the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary and Periyar Wildlife sanctuary.
The backwaters in Kerala are impressive interconnected canals, rivers and lagoons that stretch along the coastline. Visitors can spend time traveling along the water in traditional houseboats while enjoying the views of the lush countryside and little villages along the way.
Visiting the backwaters from Kochi is a picturesque experience and uniquely found in Kerala. It’s a state well-known for their biodiversity and natural beauty.
Shimla
Shimla is a unique destination in Himachal Pradesh in northern India. It was previously the summer capital during colonial rule, so the architecture is a reflection of British influence. It’s a small city surrounded by beautiful mountains.
If you’re wondering where to travel in India to experience the mountains without all of the outdoor sports, Shimla is a great option. You can still find some treks and activities, but the vibe is very relaxed. You can enjoy shopping around in the city, seeing the panoramic views and enjoying good food.
There are also many beautiful spots outside the city which are perfect for spending a few days in nature. Check out these 14 Places to Visit in Shimla during your trip! One of my best trips to Shimla was when we spent a few days at a nearby apple orchard!
Gir National Park
Gir National Park is one of the best nature reserves in India, situated on the eastern coast in Gujarat. The park has a diverse landscape of forests, scrublands and plains that allow a wide range of animals to thrive.
Travelers can explore the park with guided safaris for a peaceful ride through nature and exciting sightings of wildlife. The park is most famous as the home to the Asiatic lion which is a critically endangered species and the only place left in the world where they live. Gir National Park is the perfect destination for travelers wanting to experience nature and wildlife in a relaxing way!
Destinations for Spirituality
Dharamshala
Dharamshala is a peaceful and serene city in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh in north India. It attracts spiritual seekers particularly because of the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage. McLeod Ganj, an area of Dharamshala, is home to the Dalai Lama and several monasteries.
It’s a beautiful city to explore and the surrounding nature makes it a great destination for travelers who want to reconnect. There are many places you can join for meditation sessions or learn about holistic practices and wellness. It’s the perfect place for those seeking inner peace!
Auroville
Auroville is one of the most unique destinations in India. It’s an experimental township founded in 1968 in Tamil Nadu, south India. The mission of the town is to create a community where people from diverse backgrounds and cultures live in harmony. Sustainable living is also an important aspect of the city.
At the center of the city is the Matrimandir, which is a large temple surrounded by trails and gardens. There are many expats who live and travel to Auroville. It’s also near Pondicherry, a city formerly ruled by the French.
Auroville has a wide variety of activities people can enjoy. There are various yoga classes, sound healing sessions, group meditations, and eco-friendly workshops. I mean it, there are seriously a million options of workshops and things to do! It’s also a very small and relaxed town which offers plenty of space for self-reflection.
Isha Yoga Center
Isha Yoga Center was founded by Sadhguru in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu in south India. It’s a vast space with a variety of yoga programs and spaces for people to experience deep meditation.
Many people travel here from all over the world to experience the Isha ashram. It’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and also emphasizes eco-friendly initiatives. The Isha Yoga Center is a space where you can nourish your body and mind and devote time to inner growth! Check out this Complete Guide to the Isha Yoga Center for more details on what to expect here.
Mysore
Mysore is in Karnataka in south India and is famously known as a destination for spiritual seekers. It’s a city with a rich heritage and deep roots in spirituality. It’s a peaceful city with beautiful gardens, palaces and the calming presence of nature which is ideal for self-exploration.
Mysore is where Ashtanga Yoga began and is home to many ashrams, meditation centers and spiritual festivals. If you are particularly interested in learning yoga, Mysore is a great option with authentic teaching and immersive experiences to nourish your soul.
For more ideas on where to travel, check out these Top Destinations in India for Each State!
This post was all about where to travel in India based on your vacation style.
