North India is a pure delight to mountain lovers and adventure enthusiasts. There are plenty of picturesque, popular, and off-the-wall hill stations nestled in the Himalayas that make for beautiful holiday destinations. And all of them are so spellbinding that it gets tough to choose one from the list of gorgeous places to visit in north India.
To sort this confusion of where to go and what to see, here’s an elaborate compilation of northern India’s best tourist destinations. Pick your dream destination and plan your most amazing holiday in India.
43 Best Places To Visit In North India
We understand your confusion why you are not able to choose just one destination. When there are so many places to visit in North India, how can you just choose one? We got you a list of tourist places in North India to pick from for a scintillating vacay with your loved ones!
- Kashmir Circuit – Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg, And Srinagar
- Dharamshala – Tibetan Charm
- Dalhousie – A Peaceful Getaway
- Shimla – The Erstwhile Summer Capital Of British India
- Kullu And Manali – Hub Of Adventure
- Nainital – A Mesmerizing Hill Station
- Dehradun – A Treat For Nature Lovers
- Mussoorie – A Popular Tourist Destination
- Varanasi – A Peace Seeker’s Haven
- Allahabad – UP’s Pride
- Haridwar And Rishikesh – Beautiful Twin Cities
- Mathura And Vrindavan – Catch Some Soul Delight
- Amritsar – A Must Visit City
- Chandigarh – Gateway To The Hills
- Agra – Among The Most Romantic Destinations In India
- Delhi – Political, Cultural And Food Capital Of India
- Lansdowne – A Slice Of Mountain Life
- Kasol – Touristy Beauty
- Ranikhet – Relax Away The Entire Vacation
- Spiti – Pristine Land For True Wanderers
- Ladakh – Picture-Perfect Landscapes
- Lucknow – The City Of Nawabs
- Jim Corbett National Park – The Wildlife Safari
- Vaishno Devi – A Spiritual Expedition
- Patnitop – Mesmerizing Vistas Of Kashmir
- Almora – Serene Ambiance At Foothills
- Bir – Paragliding Paradise
- McLeodganj – Little Lhasa
- Auli – Skiing Resort
- Kedarnath – Pilgrimage Tour
- Munsiyari – Quaint Getaway
- Kasauli – Campers Paradise
- Kaza – On The Banks Of Spiti River
- Kufri – Winter Wonderland
- Dhanaulti – For Peace & Solace
- Pithoragarh – The Urban Hill Town
- Binsar – Lost In The Wilderness
- Pushkar – More Than A Temple City
- Jodhpur – Wondrous Forts And Temples
- Udaipur – Culturally And Aesthetically Rich
- Kausani – For Thrill And Peace Seekers
- Gangotri – A Prominent Pilgrimage Destination
- Kinnaur – A Spiritual Treasure
1. Kashmir Circuit – Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg, And Srinagar
Kashmir is a heaven on Earth. Known for its surreal topography, stunning views, colorful culture, and cheerful people, Kashmir is definitely one of the most awe-inspiring tourist place in North India. The stunning Dal Lake in Srinagar, the gorgeous valleys of Sonmarg, the thrilling adventures of skiing at Gulmarg, and the perfect serenity of Pahalgam make a trip to Kashmir replete with happiness. With plenty of things to do in Gulmarg, a visit here will tell you that it surely is a heaven on Earth!
Key Attractions: Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Mughal Garden, Betab Valley, Strawberry Field, and Apharwat Peak
How To Reach: Srinagar Airport is just 14 km from the main city and Udhampur (130 km from Srinagar) is the nearest railways station.
Things To Do: Visiting the famous tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Stream restaurant, Dana pani
Best Time To Visit: April to October
2. Dharamshala – Tibetan Charm
Looking for spirituality? Dharamshala is one of the best places to visit in north India for recreational purposes. It is a small and quaint hill station that offers mesmerizing views of Dhauladhar Ranges, sparkling Dal Lake, plush green deodar forests, and the honored residence of His Holiness – The Dalai Lama. That along with several camping sites in Dharamshala and more make it one of the best places to visit in February in North India.
Mcleodganj is located 9 km upslope from Dharamshala and tops the list of places to see in north India. It is known for some really cool and quaint cafes and exhilarating adventure. The two destinations are among the best places to visit in North India that, together, form an integral part of the tour packages to Himachal.
Key Attractions: Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dal Lake, Naddi Village, Kangra Fort, and Bhagsunath
How To Reach: Gaggal Airport (18 km from Mcleodganj) is the nearest airport. Pathankot Junction (90 km from Mcleodganj) is the nearest railway head. Volvos and non-AC buses by Himachal Roadways ply between these destinations and Delhi.
Things To Do: Trekking, paragliding
Best Restaurants: Tibet kitchen, Nick’s Italian kitchen, Lung Ta Japanese
Best Time To Visit: February to June
3. Dalhousie – A Peaceful Getaway
Dalhousie is a picturesque hill station, nestled in the Himalayas. One of the most invigorating North India tourist places, it is characterized by lofty mountains, sparkling river, luxuriant valleys, and colonial houses. Its serenity makes it a perfect choice for honeymooners, solo travelers, and photographers. And while you’re here, don’t forget to visit the ever-so-delightful Khajjiar, that is often called the Mini Switzerland of India!
Key Attractions: Chamba, Khajjiar, Dainkund Peak, Kalatop Wild Reserve, Panchpula, and St. Francis Catholic Church
How To Reach: Pathankot is the nearest airport and railway connection, located 80 km away
Things To Do: Trekking, spotting wildlife
Best Restaurants: Kwality restaurant, Sher e punjab restaurant
Best Time To Visit: March to May
4. Shimla – The Erstwhile Summer Capital Of British India
Plan your first 2020 getaway by making sure you explore all the best places to visit in Shimla with the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding and super cozy climate, Shimla is one of the most popular North India tourist places. Snow-capped mountains, plush valleys, and bustling mall road has made Shimla a favourite choice for all. And when you have explored all of Shimla, you can head to the charming hill stations nearby including Kufri, Chail, Chamba, and more.
Key Attractions: Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Annandale, Jakhoo Hill, Summer Hill, and Scandal Point
How To Reach: The nearest airport, Jubbarhatti, is located 23 km from the main city. The nearest railhead is Kalka, which is connected by a toy train to Shimla station.
Things To Do: Trekking, paragliding
Best Restaurants: Cafe Sol, 45 the Central
Best Time To Visit: November and February
5. Kullu And Manali – Hub Of Adventure
Kullu and Manali are the twin tourist places to visit in north India, popular for their luxuriant greenery, surreal topography, invigorating climate, and super thrilling adventure sports. Kullu, located at a distance of 40 km from Manali, is a stunning valley by the Beas whereas Manali is an amazing retreat, immensely popular especially among adventure freaks and honeymoon couples. Once you’re here, don’t forget to check out the various paragliding spots in Manali!
Key Attractions: Hadimba Temple, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa, and Vashisht Hot Water Springs
How To Reach: Nearest airport and railhead are at Chandigarh, approximately 250 km away.
Things To Do: Trekking, paragliding
Best Restaurants: Hot Spice cafe, Maitre restaurant
Best Time To Visit: March to June
6. Nainital – A Mesmerizing Hill Station
Nainital is a mesmerizing hill station and one of the most popular places in North India tourist places list. This charming destination has developed around a splendid lake. Boating, trekking, and shopping at the Tibetan market of Mall Road are some of the must-do things here. If sitting by a beautiful lake watching the day go by is your idea of a perfect vacation, then Nainital is the place for you, since it is among the most peaceful places to visit in North India. You can explore the places near Nainital that offer the same scenic beauty and adventure for a perfect vacation.
Key Attractions: Naini Lake, Naina Peak, Nainital Zoo, Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, Raj Bhavan, and Naina Devi Temple
How To Reach: The nearest railway station is at Kathgodam, 34 km from Nainital. It takes close to 8 hours to reach there from Delhi. Nainital does not have any direct air access.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Simz cafe, Sakley’s restaurant
Best Time To Visit: March to June
7. Dehradun – A Treat For Nature Lovers
Dehradun is among the best famous holiday destinations in north India for families as well as couples. The popular hill retreat is known for its awesome surrounding beauty, Doon School, Forest Research Institute, and Indian Military Academy. But that’s not all. There are myriad other North India tour places hidden in its hilly terrains and valleys. It also acts as a gateway to the popular hill stations of Uttarakhand for people traveling to the hilly areas from metros like Delhi and Jaipur.
Key Attractions: Shikhar Fall, Guchhupani, Khalanga War Memorial, and Sahastradhara
How To Reach: Dehradun has its own railway station and an airport that goes by the name of Jolly Grant.
Things To Do: Touring major attractions, visiting the cafes, eating the street food
Best Restaurants: Orchard restaurant, Black pepper, Town Table
Best Time To Visit: March to June
8. Mussoorie – A Popular Tourist Destination
Mussoorie is one of the most visited hill stations of north India, snuggled at the Himalayas. Scenic waterfalls and lofty ranges form the backdrop for some of the most amazing things to do in Mussoorie, such as boating, skating, and horse riding. The charming cafes and alluring views of the mountains make it one of the best places to visit in North India for sure.
Key Attractions: Kempty Falls, Mussoorie Lake, Jharipani Falls, Camelback Road, and Benog Sanctuary.
How To Reach: Jolly Grant at Dehradun (54 km away) is the closest airport while Dehradun (33 km away) is the nearest railway connect.
Things To Do: Trekking, paragliding
Best Restaurants: Funjabi Tandoorz, Kalsang restaurant
Best Time To Visit: April to June
Religious Places In North India
If you are feeling religious or looking for places where you can take your family and grandparents, then here are some options for you.
9. Varanasi – A Peace Seeker’s Haven
Varanasi – the religious hub, is a perfect place to unwind, and rejuvenate the mind and the soul. With photogenic ghats of The Ganges, narrow lanes, century old temples, and the mesmerizing evening aarti, Varanasi is definitely in every traveler’s bucket list. The peaceful vibes and calm demeanor of this place are sure to revitalize your senses during your trip. There is no reason why we should not include Varanasi in the list of the best places to visit in North India.
Key Attractions: Dashashwamedh Ghat and Vishwanath Temple
How To Reach: Varanasi has its own railway station and airport.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Varanasi cafe & restaurant
Best Time To Visit: November to March
10. Allahabad – UP’s Pride
Allahabad is known for ‘Sangam’ – the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, & Saraswati – and is also counted as one of the sacred places to visit in north India. Besides, there is a range of tourist attractions that place it on the list of must visit places in North India. Located in the heart of the Indo-Gangetic plain, Allahabad is often called a kaleidoscope of multiple traditions.
Key Attractions: Khusro Bagh, Triveni Sangam, and Swaraj Bhavan
How To Reach: Allahabad has its own railway station and airport.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: El Chico restaurant, Eat on restaurant
Best Time To Visit: October to March
11. Haridwar And Rishikesh – Beautiful Twin Cities
One of the most famous tourist place in North India, Haridwar is another spiritual destination of north India. Ganga is said to leave the Himalayas here. The Ganga aarti and the religious celebrations keep the place crowded throughout the year.
Rishikesh is the yoga capital of India, located 20 km up slope from Haridwar. There are numerous places to visit in Rishikesh and the city is also known internationally for adventure sports like river rafting and bungee jumping. If you find this mixture of spiritualism and adventure tempting, then for you Rishikesh surely is one of the best tourist places in North India for summer that you must not miss!
Key Attractions: Har ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple Rajaji National Park, River Rafting, Bungee Jumping, and Yoga sessions
How To Reach: The nearest airport to both the places is Jolly Grant in Dehradun whereas the nearest railway station to Rishikesh is at Haridwar.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Hotel Raghuwanshi, Chandra Mohan Vaishno Bhojanalaya
Best Time To Visit: February, March, August, October
12. Mathura And Vrindavan – Catch Some Soul Delight
Mathura is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and one of the best North India tour places. Vrindavan, on the other hand, is where he spent his childhood and youth. Hence, both are very significant religious places to visit in north India for the Hindus. The distance between Mathura and Vrindavan is just about 12 km and both these places are known for their heritage temples. Owing to its spiritual aura, it is among the most peaceful places to visit in North India.
Key Attractions: Krishna Janma Bhoomi, Dwarkadhish Temple, Bankey Bihari Temple, Keshi Ghat, and the holi celebrations in Mathura and VrindavanHow To Reach: Both Mathura and Vrindavan can be easily accessed from Delhi by road or in a local train. However, the nearest airport is in Delhi or Agra.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Agrawal restaurant, Bansal foods
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Places For Sightseeing In North India
Here are more places to visit in North India in the plains if you have had enough of moiuntains. If not, then you could also choose places to visit in north east India.
13. Amritsar – A Must Visit City
Amritsar is a fascinating place and definitely finds its place among the best places to visit in north India. The aura of Golden Temple, amazing delicacies, and cheerful people pull tourists throughout the year. Among the many things to do here is watch the Changing of the Guard at the Wagah Border that tends to delight travelers, especially patriots.
Key Attractions: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border
How To Reach: Amritsar has its own airport and railway station
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Kesar da Dhaba, Kanha sweet
Best Time To Visit: November to March
14. Chandigarh – Gateway To The Hills
Chandigarh is popular amongst all. The city’s charming city scape, fascinating parks, and amazing museums have, for years, attracted tourists from all over. And being the gateway to the hills of Himachal, it is one of the most preferred tourist places in north India. The most fun aspect of the city is that it is one of the greenest and cleanest metros in the country.
Key Attractions: Pinjore Gardens, Rock Garden, International Doll Museum, Chattbir Zoo, Rose Garden, and Cactus Garden
How To Reach: Chandigarh has an airport as well as a railway station.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Swagath restaurant and bar, Virgin courtyard, Black Lotus
Best Time To Visit: October and March
15. Agra – Among The Most Romantic Destinations In India
Agra is one of the awesome tourist destinations in north India. Easily accessible from Delhi by amazing Taj Expressway, this globally famous place houses the Taj Mahal – one of the wonders of the world, which makes this place a great addition to your list of tourist places in North India. But when you’re here, you must explore beyond the Taj and visit the less explored attractions like the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
Key Attractions: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula, and Fatehpur Sikri
How To Reach: Agra has a railhead and Delhi Airport is closest to this place.
Things To Do: Admiring the beauty
Best Restaurants: Pinch of Spice, Bob Marley cafe, Bon Barbecue
Best Time To Visit: November to March
16. Delhi – Political, Cultural And Food Capital Of India
If you take Delhi as a busy, commercial, and political destination, you are grossly mistaken. This lovely capital boasts of its amazing tourist spots. These include monuments, museums, temples, forts, bustling markets, and super cool eat-outs in Delhi that cannot be missed at any cost. Delhi is, no doubt, among the best places to visit in February in North India. There’s more to this city than meets the eye!
Key Attractions: Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, Lodhi Garden, Humayun’s Tomb, India gate, and Rashtrapati Bhavan
How to reach: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi connects to all major international cities. Hazrat Nizamuddin, Sarai Rohilla, New Delhi and Old Delhi railway stations of the capital have trains for almost all Indian cities.
How To Reach: Visiting major tourist attractions, shopping
Best Restaurants: Annamaya, Hong Kong club, Cafe Pluck
Best Time To Visit: February and March
Offbeat Places To Visit In North India
Here are some more offbeat places to visit in North India that should be on your radar when you get a serious case of wanderlust. Take a look!
17. Lansdowne – A Slice Of Mountain Life
Lansdowne is a quaint and serene hill station that tops the list of the not so popular destinations of north India. But if you are looking for the best places to visit in north India with friends, this offbeat destination is a perfect choice. It makes for the perfect destination for those seeking merely peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can go for a trek, take a stroll, chill out, or laze around – the choice is yours.
Key Attractions: St Mary Church, Tip n Top, Bhulla Lake, and War Memorial
How To Reach: Kotdwar, located at 1-hour driving distance is the closest railway station.
Things To Do: Visiting major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Northern flavors, Yashika Green forest restaurant
Best Time To Visit: March, April, May, June, September
18. Kasol – Touristy Beauty
Kasol is a fantastic and upcoming weekend retreat. One of the most peaceful tourist places in north India, the destination is a delightful place for backpackers, photography buffs, and solo travelers. This charming and sweet little village of Kullu by the River Parvati has a lot to offer – complete peace, mental rejuvenation, and freshness. Don’t miss out on the exhilarating trekking and camping experience at Kheerganga once you’re here.
Key Attractions: Trekking, camping, hiking, and trying sumptuous Israeli cuisine
How To Reach: It is 42 km from Bhuntar Airport (Kullu). Regular buses and cabs ply from Bhuntar to Kasol.
Things To Do: Trekking, camping
Best Restaurants: The Evergreen, Moon Dance cafe, Little Italy
Best Time To Visit: April, May, October, November
19. Ranikhet – Relax Away The Entire Vacation
Ranikhet boasts of its lush green surroundings, heritage temples, and classic churches. With nothing much to do, this forested hilly retreat is a perfect place for romantic couples who are looking for a wonderful honeymoon away from urban noises. Other than that, trekkers and hikers also visit this place to revel in nature’s bounty and explore the jungles surrounding the hilltown.
Key Attractions: Visit the temples, trek, and stroll to reveal the nature’s splendor
How To Reach: Kathgodam is the closest railhead, located 80 km away.
Things To Do: Visiting the famous tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Rajatgiri restaurant, Chevron Rosemount
Best Time To Visit: April to June
20. Spiti – Pristine Land For True Wanderers
Endowed with picturesque villages, gorgeous mountains, and panoramic glacier, Spiti Valley offers awesome and mind-blowing views and is surely one of the most unconventional tourist destinations in north India. The vibrant monasteries add to the charm of the place that is already well known for offering ultimate spiritual serenity. It’s among the favorite place of all photographers and movie-makers from around the world.
Key Attractions: Bara Shigri Glacier, Tabo Monastery, and Ki Monastery
How To Reach: Kullu Airport is 85 km and Shimla railway station (toy train) is 428 km from Spiti.
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, paragliding, biking
Best Restaurants: The Himalayan cafe, Spiti organic kitchen
Best Time To Visit: April to May
21. Ladakh – Picture-Perfect Landscapes
How can we miss out this beauty when talking about North India tourism! Replete with the most wondrous of natural sights, topography, a vivid culture, colorful monasteries, and smiling people, Ladakh is a must visit on every wanderer’s bucket list. From the striking blue of Pangong Lake to the eye-catching gold and grey of Nubra Valley, Ladakh hides more beauty that one can imagine, which makes it one of the best tourist places in North India for summer!
Key Attractions: Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Zanskar Liver, Stakna Monastery, 3 Idiots School, Magnetic Hill
How To Reach: The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is connected with cities like Delhi, Srinagar, and Jammu. One can also drive down to Leh via the Delhi-Manali-Kargil-Leh route.
Things To Do: Paragliding, trekking, snow sledging
Best Restaurants: Jalsa, Unlocked restaurant, Wangchuk’s Ladakhi kitchen
Best Time To Visit: April to June
22. Lucknow – The City Of Nawabs
If you think ‘royalty’ and ‘luxury’ only denotes Rajasthan, you’re mistaken. The City of Nawabs is every bit royal and posh with its regal lifestyle and polite Lucknowi people. This multicultural city is home to some of the best places to visit in February in North India. And the delicious Awadhi cuisine you’ll be treated to at every nook and corner is something to die for! Escape to this charming hub of heritage and explore its beautiful gardens, music, cuisines, and rich culture.
Key Attractions: Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, The Residency and more
How To Reach: Lucknow Airport & Lucknow Railway Station connected to major Indian cities | Strong road networks with highways connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Kanpur, Jaipur
Things To Do: Visiting the major tourist attractions
Best Restaurants: Moti Mahal, Royal Sky, L-14 restaurant
Best Time To Visit: October to March
For more, check the second part of the blog
43 Updated Places To Visit In North India (with photos) In 2020 For A Refreshing Tour: Part 2
BouncingBelly
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