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With the remains of the erstwhile kingdoms and the scenic mountain ranges, North India offers a spectrum of experiences for its visitors. From bustling metropolitan cities to serene mountain towns, this area boasts historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant local cultures. What’s even more alluring is that the places to visit in North India offer a myriad of experiences, ranging from spiritual to historical and adventurous to tranquil. It all comes down to what you’d like to explore in your next vacation. There’s so much to explore in North India, however, planning according to your travel goals can help.
Top 10 Places to Visit in North India
From hill stations to historical monuments, discover these 10 places to visit in North India for an enchanting vacation this year.
1. Delhi
Photo: Shalender Kumar / Unsplash
If there’s one place in North India that stands out as a “microcosm” of the country, it has to be Delhi. Besides being the capital city, Delhi is steeped in historical sites. Layers of history unfold with magnificent Mughal monuments like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. History is not the only reason that charms tourists, witnessing politically important monuments like the Rashtrapati Bhavan, visiting museums showing the transition of Delhi, and eating delicious food are some reasons to visit Delhi. The city from ancient times had been a centre for rulers and conquerors and still holds the same charm of different eras.
Best Time To Visit: October to March (10°C to 25°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple
Top Experiences: Explore Chandni Chowk market, visit historical monuments, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, and savour delectable street food
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South India
2. Auli
Photo: Aniket Mandish / Unsplash
Often known as a “Skier’s Paradise,” Auli is located in the middle of the snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. Given its reputation for offering some of the most thrilling winter sports, Auli beckons adventurers who want to glide down the snow-covered mountains. There are well-maintained ski courses and professional instructors to guide, so safety is not a concern. Ideal for treks like the Nanda Devi trek and Trishul Peak, Auli lets you pump your adrenaline to the core.
Best Time To Visit: November to March (-4°C to 15°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Artificial Ski slopes, Nanda Devi National Park, Trishul Peak, Auli Gorson Bugyal meadows, and Auli Lake
Top Experiences: Skiing, snowboarding, gondola ride, trekking to Gorson Bugyal meadows, enjoying scenic beauty
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
3. Kashmir Circuit
Photo: Isa Macouzet / Unsplash
The Kashmir circuit is one of the significant places to visit in North India. This includes your staple Kashmir tour spots – Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. Collectively referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” each of these spots offers a unique experience. From houseboat rides on Dal Lake to Gondola rides in Gulmarg, and trekking to Apharwat Peak, the places offer many unique experiences. Pahalgam beckons tourists with its valleys, meadows and trekking trails while Sonamarg takes you to the beautiful Thajiwas Glacier via trekking. You can also plan for nature walks and camping, further making the most of your trip.
Best Time To Visit: March to October (15°C to 30°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Gulmarg, Apharwat Peak, Betaab Valley, Thajiwas Glacier
Top Experiences: Shikara ride on Dal Lake, gondola ride in Gulmarg, trekking in Pahalgam, white water rafting on the Lidder River, scenic drives
Ideal Trip Duration: 7 – 8 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Monsoon In India
4. Varanasi
Photo: Steve Evans / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the banks of the holy Ganga, Varanasi is steeped in spirituality and tradition. The highlight of this city lies in the evening Ganga Aarti at the Dasaswamedh Ghat and visiting one of the 12 jyotirlingas in Kashi Vishwanath Temple. However, how you explore Varanasi and the quaint city is entirely on you. You can start by exploring the different ghats, including the cremation ghat, aka Manikarnika Ghat. Following that, explore the narrow lanes and bustling markets and follow up the experiences with historical expeditions by exploring the nearby forts.
Best Time To Visit: October to March (10°C to 25°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Dashasmedha Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, Manikarnika Ghat (cremation ground), Ganges River
Top Experiences: Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony, boat ride on the Ganges, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi, and visit ancient temples
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
5. Ladakh
Photo: Omendra Singh / Wikimedia Commons
Ladakh, also known as the “Land of High Passes,” is a high-altitude desert region known for its stark beauty, adventure activities, and unique Tibetan culture. Beyond biking trips across the region, you can also take your time to immerse yourself in the life of the locals by visiting the local monasteries. For some adventure, set out on a jeep safari through the Nubra Valley or a trekking trip to the Pangong Tso, which is a high-altitude lake.
Best Time To Visit: June to September (5°C to 25°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Leh Palace, Hemis Gompa Monastery, Shanti Stupa
Top experiences: Jeep safari through Nubra Valley, trekking to Pangong Tso, exploring Buddhist monasteries, mountain biking, and white water rafting on the Indus River
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Winter In India
6. Dalhousie
Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is a charming hill station featuring a colonial past. From the laidback colonial architecture to the bustling markets on Mall Road, Dalhousie feels like a dream. From witnessing the stunning Panchpula waterfalls to leisurely strolling around the city centre to pick up crafts and items from the local artisans, there’s so much to unfold in this hill station. For a day trip experience, visit Khajjiar, often known for its meadows and pine forests.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November (15°C to 25°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Panchpula, Khajjiar, Sach Pass (the highest motorable road in Himachal), St. Andrew’s Church, Gandhi Chowk
Top Experiences: Hike to Panchpula waterfalls, explore the Khajjiar meadows, scenic drive through Sach Pass, explore colonial architecture, and visit Tibetan handicraft markets
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
7. Jim Corbett National Park
Photo: Prashant Saini / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Regarded as one of the oldest national parks in the country, Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936 and features a diverse range of wildlife, biodiversity and ecosystems. The national park is spread across 580 sq. km and stands out for its native sal forests. Also, on jeep safaris, you can set out to closely encounter animals like tigers, leopards, lions and a wide variety of birds too. It’s a perfect place to indulge in nature walks too.
Best Time To Visit: November to February (5°C to 20°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Dhikala Zone (famous for tiger sightings), Corbett Museum, Bijrani Zone, Garjia Temple, Corbett Falls
Top Experiences: Jeep safari for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, nature walks, visit the Corbett Museum and explore Dhikala Zone
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In India In June With Family
8. Kasol
Photo: Ashwini Chaudhary(Monty) / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Another less-explored tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh that truly represents the charm of North India is Kasol visit this town before it becomes overcrowded. Thus, it is one of the best places to visit in North India for your vacation. Not just for nature enthusiasts, Kasol is a heaven for backpackers too. Kasol has attracted a significant Israeli population, earning the nickname “Mini Israel.” Beyond that, Kasol is steeped in a lot of amazing tourist attractions like Manikaran for its hot springs and temples and Kheerganga Peak for its trekking expeditions. For shopping experiences, head over to Kasol Market.
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November (15°C to 25°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Manikaran, Kheerganga Peak, Tosh village, Grahan Trek (challenging trek), Kasol market
Top Experiences: Explore the cafes and shops, go on a trek to Kheerganga or Grahan, visit Manikaran hot springs and temples, relax by the Parvati River, and experience the Israeli influence
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
9. Dehradun
Photo: SP Srivastava / Shutterstock
The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun attracts a lot of visitors due to its stunning beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the place is a popular destination among families and couples alike. If you want to make your tour in North India special, Dehradun is the best place to be. Decked with popular religious sites, hilly terrains and valleys, the place offers several unique experiences for adventure junkies and nature enthusiasts. From exploring the lush hills to shopping for your favourite items, you can have a wonderful vacation on this beautiful hill station.
Best Time To Visit: March to June (17°C to 35°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Robbers’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Mindrolling Monastery, Tapkeshwar Temple, Paltan Bazaar, etc.
Top Experiences: Trekking through nature trails, paragliding above misty mountains, shopping for souvenirs, etc.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In North East India
10. Jodhpur
Photo: Sanhitasinha / Wikimedia Commons
Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City,” is a vibrant city in Rajasthan, and is among the top places to visit in North India. It is known for its magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, which overlooks the city painted in shades of blue. To get a glimpse into the architectural marvels, visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace, which served as a royal residence and a part of it now serves as one of the most expensive boutique hotels in the country. To truly immerse in the essence of the city, visit the bustling Clock Tower market, which is popular for its textiles and handicrafts.
Best Time To Visit: October to March (10°C to 25°C)
Top Tourist Attractions: Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada (marble mausoleum), Toorji Ka Jhalra (stepwell), Sardar Market (Clock Tower Market)
Top Experiences: Marvel at the royal palaces and forts, and shop for handicrafts and handlooms
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
The places to visit in North India offer a wide range of travel experiences. From serene spirituality in Varanasi to the heart-stopping adventure trails in Ladakh, there’s so much to do and experience. As you finalise the basics of your next vacation, let TripXL be your travel partner. Secure the best deals and book your trip with us.
Cover Photo: Rishabh Dhiman / Pexels
