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West India is a region where historic forts, vibrant cities, large deserts, and green hills create a diverse travel experience. These places to visit in West India include ancient cave temples, lively festivals, and scenic beaches, offering something for every traveller. From exploring centuries-old structures to experiencing local traditions and coastal life, India showcases a combination of history, culture, and nature. Each destination has its own story, shaped by the past and influenced by modern life, making it a fascinating part of India to explore.
Top 10 Places To Visit In West India
Here are 10 places to visit in West India that stand out for their history, landscapes, and local experiences:
1. Goa
Photo: Sarang Pande / Unsplash
Goa, India’s smallest state, attracts visitors with its beaches, colonial history, and nightlife. Its popular beaches, like Calangute, Anjuna, and Palolem, offer water sports, beach shacks, and markets selling local crafts. The region’s past is also reflected in churches such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Goa’s tropical climate keeps it warm year-round, with monsoons from June to September. Tourists visit for relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a preferred destination for domestic and international travellers.
Major Attractions: Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Chapora Fort, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Madgaon Railway Station
2. Mumbai
Photo: Renzo D’souza / Unsplash
In Mumbai, old and new, India’s financial capital comes together with colonial buildings like the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, which stand next to modern skyscrapers and busy markets. The city’s streets remain busy with vendors selling food like vada pav and pav bhaji. Local trains transport millions daily, contributing to the city’s fast pace. Festivals, cricket matches, and economic opportunities make the city a hub of energy, diversity, and constant movement, drawing people across India.
Major Attractions: Elephanta Caves, Siddhivinayak Temple, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
3. Udaipur
Photo: Swag Photography / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Udaipur, surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, is known for its lakes, palaces, and historic architecture. Its major attraction, the City Palace, sits by Lake Pichola, giving a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal history. Meanwhile, the Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon Ki Bari add to the city’s cultural charm. In the old town, markets sell handcrafted textiles, pottery, and paintings, making it a great place for shopping. For a great view of the city and its surroundings, visit the Monsoon Palace, which sits on a hill and offers a quiet escape from the busy streets below.
Major Attractions: Fateh Sagar Lake, Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur City Railway Station
4. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, set in the Thar Desert, is famous for its yellow sandstone buildings and massive fort containing temples, homes, and markets. The city’s old mansions, like Patwon Ki Haveli, have beautiful stone carvings that show its rich history. The annual Desert Festival also brings camel races and folk events, adding to the cultural experience. With its desert scenery, historic sites, and rich traditions, Jaisalmer attracts travellers interested in history, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Major Attractions: Sam Sand Dunes, Gadisar Lake, Jain Temples
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jaisalmer Railway Station
5. Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is famous for its pink-coloured buildings, a tradition started in 1876 to welcome a British royal visit. The city’s landmarks include Amber Fort, which sits on a hill, and Hawa Mahal, which was designed with many small windows that once allowed royal women to watch street life without being seen. Additionally, Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory, showcases scientific achievements from the past. As part of India’s Golden Triangle, Jaipur is a key destination for northern India’s history, architecture, and culture, making it one of the best places to visit in West India.
Major Attractions: Nahargarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum, Birla Mandir
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jaipur Junction
6. Ahmedabad
Photo: Zarnesh Kanojia / Wikimedia Commons
Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, is one of the best places to visit in West India. The old city is known for its pols and traditional wooden houses with shared courtyards, while Jama Masjid, built in the 1400s, stands out for its stunning Islamic architecture. Additionally, the city is known for its vegetarian food, including dhokla and thepla. In January, Ahmedabad celebrates the Uttarayan Kite Festival, where thousands of colourful kites fill the sky as families gather on rooftops, enjoy traditional food, and participate in lively competitions.
Major Attractions: Kankaria Lake, Sabarmati Ashram, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Ahmedabad Junction
7. Aurangabad
Photo: Arian Zwegers/ Wikimedia Commons
Aurangabad is the gateway to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, with temples carved into rock from Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions. Ajanta is known for its ancient cave paintings, while Ellora features massive stone structures, including the Kailasa Temple, which was carved from a single rock. The city’s landmarks include Bibi Ka Maqbara, which looks like a smaller Taj Mahal, and Daulatabad Fort, a hilltop fort with strong defences. Aurangabad is also famous for Paithani silk saris, which are known for their peacock and floral designs and their local cuisine, which features spicy curries and sweet jalebi.
Major Attractions: Daulatabad Fort, Panchakki, Aurangabad Caves
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station
8. Mahabaleshwar
In Mahabaleshwar, a hill station in Maharashtra, nature and history come together. For breathtaking valley views, Arthur’s Seat is a must-visit, while Venna Lake, surrounded by forests, is perfect for a peaceful boat ride. Pratapgad Fort also stands nearby, offering historical significance and scenic trekking trails. Exploring the town, you’ll find winding paths where monkeys play and birds fill the air with their calls. Moreover, after the monsoon, waterfalls like Lingmala, Dhobi, and Chinaman’s come to life, cascading down lush green hills and adding to the area’s beauty.
Major Attractions: Elephant’s Head Point, Mapro Garden, Lingmala Waterfall
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Wathar Railway Station
9. Rann Of Kutch
Photo: Krunal Lakhatariya / Unsplash
The Rann of Kutch, a vast salt desert in Gujarat, changes with the seasons. During the monsoon, it fills with water, creating a shimmering landscape. As winter sets in, the water recedes, revealing endless white salt plains. This transformation sets the stage for the Rann Utsav festival, held from November to February, where music, dance, handicrafts, and camel rides bring the desert to life. The region also has unique attractions like the Wild Ass Sanctuary, home to the rare Indian wild ass, and Kala Dungar Hill, offering sweeping desert views.
Major Attractions: Kutch Museum, Mandvi Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuj Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Bhuj Railway Station
10. Pune
Photo: Shubham Swami / Unsplash
Pune is one of the best places to visit in West India. Landmarks like Shaniwar Wada, a grand Maratha palace, and the Aga Khan Palace, where Mahatma Gandhi was once imprisoned, reflect its rich past. Furthermore, those looking for a quick escape can visit Lonavala, a nearby hill station known for its cool climate and scenic views. Food lovers can enjoy local delicacies like spicy misal pav and sweet puran poli, adding to the city’s diverse appeal. Moreover, Pune becomes even more vibrant during the Ganesh festival, as grand processions and colourful decorations fill the streets.
Major Attractions: Sinhagad Fort, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pune Junction
West India combines historic cities, coastal retreats, and desert landscapes. From Mumbai’s fast-paced life and Goa’s beaches to Rajasthan’s grand forts and Gujarat’s salt desert, these places to visit in West India have something different to offer. Book your journey to India today with TripXL, which offers travel bookings, local guides, and reliable support to ensure a well-organised and enjoyable experience.
Cover Photo: Vivek / Unsplash
