When nothing goes right, go north. And if you are in India, the north promises a wonderful time. Blessed with the majestic Himalayas, gurgling rivers, lush valleys, stunning alpine meadows, rich biodiversity, and soulful religious places, north India is simply incredible. Here, we feature twenty places to visit in north India. By Karan Kaushik
20 Places to visit in North India
Leh
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Jagged mountains, turquoise lakes, age-old Buddhist monasteries, traditional Ladakhi mud-brick houses, prayer-flag-festooned lanes, charming bazaars, and cool cafes. Only a few places in India reward the discerning traveller as Leh does. Prominent spots in Leh include Pangong Tso Lake, Thiksey Monastery, Leh Palace, Hall of Fame, Shanti Stupa, Hemis National Park, and Magnetic Hill.
Best time to visit: April to June, July to September (for bikers)
How to reach: Leh enjoys good air connectivity with major Indian cities via Delhi and Srinagar. Considering Delhi is the base, there are two major routes to Leh. These are the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes. Jammu Tawi is the nearest railhead from Leh.
Nubra Valley
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Located across the Khardung La Pass to the north of Leh, Nubra Valley is loved by travellers for its high-altitude sand dunes and double-humped Bactrian camels. Nubra Valley is home to two picturesque valleys. The valley to the northwest is called the Shyok Valley, and it comprises the towns of Diskit and Hundar. The second valley is to the north, where Panamik is the main town. Enjoy a bumpy camel ride in Hunder, get photographed in traditional Ladakhi costumes, visit the Diskit Monastery, trek to the Ensa Gompa, take a dip in the hot springs at Panamik, explore Sumur village, and trek to Yarab Tso Lake.
Best time to visit: June to August
How to reach: Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh is the nearest airport and Jammu is the nearest railhead. Hire a taxi in Leh through a registered tour operator, who will also arrange your Inner Line Permit to visit Nubra.
Srinagar
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Nestled in the western Kashmir Valley by the Jhelum River, Srinagar and its tranquil environs offer the most iconic images of a mountain holiday for Indian tourists. With the majestic Zaberwan Hills in the backdrop and pristine lakes and beautiful flower gardens dotting its landscape, Srinagar is the gateway to the paradise called Kashmir. When in Srinagar, stay in a houseboat, cherish a shikhara ride in the Dal Lake, visit the Shalimar and Nishat gardens, shop for Kashmiri saffron and kahwa, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, and go all touristy around the Boulevard.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to reach: Srinagar airport is served by regular flights from major Indian cities. Banihal is the nearest railhead. Buses are easily available from Jammu.
Gulmarg
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One of the most popular places to visit in India, the touristy hill station of Gulmarg is sheer heaven for lovers of the great outdoors. The literal meaning of Gulmarg is the meadow of flowers. From thrilling Gondola rides to exploring lush meadows, Gulmarg offers a lovely experience for all kinds of tourists. One of the highest ski resorts in the world, Gulmarg gives skiing enthusiasts an opportunity to ski on the sun-kissed snowy slopes of the Apharwat peak. The peak is said to be Asia’s longest ski slope.
Best time to visit: April to October, January to February
How to reach: It’s best to book a cab from Srinagar.
Patnitop
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Most travellers who travel to the pilgrimage site of Vaishno Devi make sure to club their visit with Patnitop. Nestled in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop lies on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. Top places to visit in Patnitop include Nathatop, Sanasar Lake, Naag Mandir, Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, Baglihar Dam, Sudh Mahadev Temple, and Patnitop Circular Road.
Best time to visit: April to June
How to reach: Jammu is the nearest airport and railhead. Buses for Jammu are easily available.
Spiti
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Once you leave behind the cemented roads and traffic snarls of Himachal Pradesh and cross the Kunzum Pass, the striking moonscape of Spiti greets you with its soaring mountains and scattered villages. The turquoise-grey ribbon of the River Spiti snakes through rugged terrain. Skip the popular hill stations teeming with bustling crowds and arrive in Spiti for its Buddhist monasteries, quiet villages, and scenic alpine lakes.
Best time to visit: March to June
How to reach: Bhuntar is the nearest airport and Joginder Nagar is the nearest railhead. To reach Spiti by road, you can take a bus to Manali, from where shared and private taxis to Spiti are available.
Shimla
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Perhaps the most loved hill station in India, Shimla promises a quintessential mountain holiday. The erstwhile summer capital of British India continues to charm visitors with its colonial heritage and stunning vistas. All-time favourite spots of tourists include Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, Viceregal Lodge, Botanical Gardens, and The Ridge. The real joy lies in embarking on a shopping spree on the Mall Road though.
Best time to visit: May to June, December to January
How to reach: Jubbarhatti Aiport is the nearest airport and Kalka is the nearest railhead. Buses are easily available from Delhi and other north Indian cities.
Manali
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Manali continues to be an all-time favourite hill station, which is flocked by tourists in droves. With its stunning vistas, rich cultural and architectural heritage, chic cafes, and vibrant bazaars, Manali is one of the best places to visit in north India. Famous tourist spots in Manali include Hidimba Temple, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Manu Temple, Jogini Falls, Manali Sanctuary, and Vashishtha Temple.
Best time to visit: March to June, December to January
How to reach: Bhuntar is the nearest airport and Joginder Nagar is the nearest railhead. Regular buses to Manali ply from Delhi and other cities of north India and Himachal Pradesh.
Dalhousie
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Named after the erstwhile Governor-General of India, Lord Dalhousie or James Andrew Broun-Ramsay, Dalhousie offers a quaint and beautiful hill setting. Palatial Victorian bungalows, charming cottages, Raj-era churches, and elite boarding schools line its sylvan roads. Take strolls at its three malls. Appreciate the best of Gothic architecture. Hike to Bakrota and Moti Tibba hills. Go on a road trip to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Try paragliding at Khajjar. The charming hill station has an impressive array of offerings for the seasoned traveller.
Best time to visit: March to June
How to reach: Gaggal Airport is the nearest airport and Pathankot is the nearest railhead. Buses are available from Delhi and other parts of Himachal Pradesh and north India.
Valley of Flowers
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A UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand is a nature lover’s paradise. The national park is known for its alpine meadows and a variety of flora that covers the expanse of the park. The rich diversity of the area also translates to the rare and endangered animals including the likes of the ever-evading snow leopard, blue sheep, black bear, and more that call this park their home.
Best time to visit: July to August
How to reach: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport and Rishikesh is the nearest railway station. Govindghat is the nearest bus stop.
Kedarnath
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A part of the Char Dham Yatra, Kedarnath is India’s northernmost Jyotirlinga. Perched at a height of 11,746 ft, the sacred shrine is steeped in myth and legend. It is said that Sage Adi Shankaracharya achieved samadhi here. The Kedarnath Temple stands in all its glory near the source of the river Mandakini. Pilgrims have to undertake a 14-km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. Ponies, palanquins, and porters are also available for children and the elderly.
Best time to visit: April to June
How to reach: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport and Rishikesh is the nearest railway station. Gaurikund Bus Stand is served by regular buses from Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Jim Corbett
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If a wildlife holiday is what you are looking forward to, look no further than the Jim Corbett National Park. One of the oldest national parks in India, it was earlier known as Hailey National Park. It was set up as a part of the Corbett Project Reserve initiated to protect endangered species, including the Bengal Tiger. Sprawling over an area of 520 square kilometres, the national park features grasslands, hills, riverine belts, and marshy depressions. Apart from the endangered tigers, other rare animals that can be spotted at Corbett are otters and the endemic fish-eating crocodile.
Best time to visit: December to March
How to reach: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport and Ramnagar Railway Station is the nearest railhead. Regular buses for Ramnagar are available from Delhi, Haridwar and Nainital.
Rishikesh
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Located in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas by the banks of River Ganga, the holy city of Rishikesh is a huge tourist magnet. Mostly flocked by youngsters, Rishikesh is also known as the yoga capital of the world. Backpackers visit Rishikesh to party at the white sand beaches of Shivpuri. But it’s the Beatles Ashram that continues to be the major draw among the free-souled travellers. Top things to do include river rafting and bungee jumping in Shivpuri, evening Ganga aarti, and savouring meals at Choti Wala and German Bakery.
Best time to visit: September to March
How to reach: Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport. Rishikesh is regularly served by trains and buses from the rest of India and major north Indian cities, including Delhi.
Nainital
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Another super popular hill station of India, Nainital is situated in the serene valleys of Uttarakhand. Nestled around the pristine Naini Lake, Nainital is every bit touristy. From soulful boat rides in the lake to cable car rides to birdwatching to shopping in the mall, the hill station has it all. And then there are the warm and hospitable folks of Kumaon. If you are planning a Kumaoni vacation, Nainital is one of your best bets.
Best time to visit: March to June
How to reach: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport and Kathgodam is the nearest railhead. Buses are also available from Delhi and other main cities of Uttarakhand and north India.
Amritsar
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Few places offer as much tranquillity as Amritsar. There’s spirituality, there’s history, there’s incredible food, and there’s so much to shop for. Experience early morning serenity at the Golden temple, walk through the pages of history at the Partition Museum and Jalianwala Bagh, take your tastebuds on a joyride at iconic dhabas, shop for phulkari dupattas and jutis, and feel your chest swell with pride at the Wagah Border. One of the most special experiences in Amritsar is volunteering at the mega kitchen of the Golden Temple and enjoying a wholesome langar meal. You may also visit the historical Gobindgarh Fort.
Best time to visit: November to March
How to reach: Amritsar is served by daily flights and trains from all parts of India. Buses are easily available from Delhi and other major north Indian cities.
Chandigarh
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When a city prides itself on being one of the most beautiful in the country, its public spaces can’t afford to have low aesthetic value either. Chandigarh, the city beautiful, is home to lovely gardens, tranquil lakes, chic cafes, plush bars, and swanky shopping complexes. Visit the iconic Rock Garden, treat your eyes to stunning colours at the Rose Garden, spend some leisure time at Sukhna Lake, and visit the International Dolls Museum.
Best time to visit: September to November
How to reach: Chandigarh has good air, rail, and road connectivity with the rest of the country.
Agra
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Home to the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, Agra is one of the most-flocked tourist attractions in India. The erstwhile capital of the Mughals continues to lure tourists with its myriad heritage, cultural, and culinary offerings. The city can be explored even in a day. Start with the Taj Mahal, loll around at the Methab Baagh, walk through the pages of history and the Agra Fort, and get some petha pack for home. You may also include Fatehpur Sikri in your itinerary.
Best time to visit: November to March
How to reach: Agra has good air, rail, and road connectivity with the rest of India.
Varanasi
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One of India’s most iconic sacred cities, Varanasi has a mystic charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Located on the banks of River Ganga, Varanasi is one of the most popular places to visit in north India. Start your mornings by savouring piping hot bedmi puris with alu sabzi. When done, take a boat ride or a refreshing dip in the Ganges, attend the evening aarti, befriend interesting locals, and gift yourself a Banarasi silk saree or kurta. The land of Lord Shiva awaits you with its blissful vibes.
Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach: Varanasi is served by regular flights, trains, and buses from major cities of India and Uttar Pradesh.
Jaipur
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Jaipur never fails to surprise the seasoned traveller. The charming Pink City offers a bewitching experience to history buffs from around the globe. A quintessential Jaipur itinerary includes Hawa Mahal, Amber Palace, City Palace, Jal Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, and Jaigarh Fort. For shopping, visit Johari Bazar, Bapu Bazar, Tripolia Bazar, and Chandpole Bazar.
Best time to visit: October to March
How to reach: Being the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur enjoys good road, rail, and air connectivity with the rest of the country.
Jaisalmer
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If you want to experience the Thar Desert, there’s no better place than Jaisalmer. When here, explore age-old havelis and Jain temples, visit the Jaisalmer Fort- India’s only living fort, soak in peaceful vibes at the Gadisar Lake, and shop to your heart’s content at the main market. When done appreciating the rich architectural and cultural heritage of Jaisalmer, head to the haunted village of Kuldhara for a fascinating experience. Spend the night at a campsite or resort in the Sam Desert. But before that, enjoy a bumpy camel ride, watch a puppet show, shake legs with Kalbelia dancers, and enjoy the thrill of paramotoring.
Best time to visit: October to March
How to reach: Jodhpur is the closest airport. Regular buses are also available from major cities in Rajasthan. Jaisalmer has good rail connectivity with major Indian cities.
Feature and hero image courtesy: Shutterstock
Related: These Are Some Of The Best Places To Visit In September In India
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Answer: Yes, most north Indian destinations are safe for solo travellers. Women solo travellers must be a little cautious when visiting places like Varanasi, Mathura, and Agra. If visiting a hill station in the upper reaches of the Himalayas, do make sure to check the weather forecast beforehand.
Answer: While most places in north India are safe for women travellers, they should avoid late nights and lonely places. Dressing appropriately at religious places also comes recommended.
Answer: North India is dotted with some of the most stunning destinations in the country. It would be hard to pick one. However, some of the most beautiful destinations in north India include Gulmarg, Shimla, Manali, Valley of Flowers, and Nainital, to name a few.
Answer: Mcleodganj, Tirthan, Varanasi, Agra, Manali, and Amritsar are some of the most pocket-friendly destinations in north India.
Answer: Whether a place is expensive or not depends on the hotel and mode of transport that one may choose. As far as logistics are concerned, visiting Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Spiti Valley could be a little expensive as compared to the others.
Answer: Some of the most popular hotels in north India include The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra, Rambagh Palace Jaipur, Ananda Spa Resort Rishikesh, Khyber Himalayan Resort Gulmarg, Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar, Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur, Corbett Leela Vilas Uttarakhand, among others.
Answer: Some of the best hill stations in north India include Srinagar, Leh, Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, Nainital, Bhimtal, Almora, Binsar, Munsiyari, Kausani, Kasauli, and Dharamsala.
