A Guide to Ladakh: For First-time Travelers

If you’re looking to dive into India’s architectural wonders or explore its rich and beautiful history, all you need to do is take a trip to Rajasthan, a state that is believed to have more history than the rest of the country put together. The land of Maharajas, palaces and forts find its way into most travel itineraries thanks to its exotic ruins, romantic past, rich folklore, vast arid deserts, ancient fairs and beautiful culture. The yearly calendar always has a festival or an event on display and there is enough shopping and sightseeing to ensure that you never have a dull moment. One could spend months exploring this beautiful state, but those short on time can introduce themselves to the wonders of Rajasthan by visiting these 11 places.

From palm-lined beaches to the Taj Mahal to Himalayan hill stations, each corner of India is unique in its own way; no two regions in this vast country are alike. With so many places to go and things to see, planning a trip to India may seem like a daunting task but it's only a matter of a quick geography lesson and some top recommendations that will have you on your way to an adventure of a lifetime. Pack your bags and get ready to explore India with us. Here’s our list of the 20 best places to visit in India, by region, starting with the mesmerizing north.

The narrow strip of land on the southern tip of India squeezed between the Western Ghats in the east and the Malabar coast in the west makes up the state of Kerala. One of the country’s richest and most developed states, the jungles and waterways of Kerala come as a welcome haven of serenity for those more used to the chaotic jumble of cities further north. This is a place of tranquillity and stunning natural beauty, a land of enchantment that leaves few unmoved. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala to get started with:

A surefire amalgam of rich heritage, lush landscapes, glorious food culture and vibrant modern cities, it is not difficult to see why South India should be the destination for your next India trip. The heartbeat of the country, South India sits in clear contrast to the country’s north. Prepare to explore age-old shrines and structures, immerse yourself in colorful culture and gastronomy, and get lost in scenic coastlines, palm-fringed backwaters and rolling hills. Here is a guide to discovering all that the region has to offer, including recommended places, South India tour packages, suggested itineraries and more.

A tiger safari in India is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the power and grace of India’s most treasured animal. Under a conservation program titled Project Tiger launched by the Indian Government in 1972, 47 Project Tiger Reserves were established, making this country undoubtedly one of the best in the world when it comes to tiger safaris. All of the National Parks listed below have tiger reserves founded by Project Tiger in addition to housing some of the largest tiger populations in India. Not only that, there are plenty of other wild and wonderful creatures, flora, and striking landscapes all of which make India a desirable travel destination. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or animal lover, don’t miss the chance at safari in India!

With swaying palm trees, sandy beaches and tropical breeze, Kerala’s narrow coastal strip, and layered landscape has made it one of the destinations to be at. Just a short distance away from the Arabian Sea, Kerala borders Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. With the Western Ghats as its backdrop, Kerala tourism thrives off its wildlife reserves, lush vegetation, aromatic spices, mountains and backwaters. Kerala is a solace place away from the bustle of India that highlights a slower way of life with an evocative history waiting to be told.

For first-timers in India, it can be a challenge just knowing where to start. While South India undoubtedly has its charms, the northern part of the country is packed with enough sights, attractions and experiences to fill many months of travel. By concentrating on the northern region, you will be able to sample much of the magic of India in the shortest amount of time. Here are just a few of the things that shouldn’t be missed, along with some top suggestions for the most memorable North India tour packages.

Goa, the state that was once Portugal’s colonial toehold in India, has evolved through several distinct iterations. First, hippies drifting around India in the 60s were seduced by the state’s laid-back vibe and pristine beaches. Then, in the 80s and 90s, they were superseded by ravers who came to party; the state even gave its name to their particular genre of dance music – Goa trance. In more recent times, Goa has tried to reinvent itself, with many places now discouraging low-budget backpackers in favor of a new, higher-spending clientele. The hippies, the ravers and the package tourists with their families can all still be found, and what draws them is the same as it has always been – Goa’s gorgeous coastline of sandy tropical beaches that stretch dreamily up and down the shores of the Arabian sea. Here are ten of the best spots.

Rajasthan is the largest state in India and as its literal translation “Land of the Kings“ suggest, it has the capacity to astound and impress. Its war-ridden past, and the splendour and opulence of the maharajas can be seen until today. Impenetrable forts and decorated palaces with magnificently extravagant interiors may have been converted into hotels and museums, but they are no less impressive. Aside from architectural wonders, Rajasthan offers festivals, bazars, wildlife sanctuaries and the picture-perfect Thar desert attracting increasingly more visitors. Welcome to your Rajasthan tour.

Monsoon is active in much of India in August. However, travelers should not give up hope just yet. Not only are there plenty of gaps in rain clouds to afford great sightseeing tours in New Delhi and the Golden Triangle, but the Himalayas and the deserts of Rajasthan are also relatively dry for exploration during this time. So ignore the naysayers and plan a trip to India in August.

The wondrous of India lies in the fact that along with claiming it to be secular, India also proves that it is secular. India is a land of not just brilliant Hindu temples, but also some thriving and beautiful Buddhist monasteries that dot the hills and mountains of India. Closer to the India-Tibet border, the breathtaking monasteries are not only tourist destinations, but also an abode of peace. These monasteries also a great place to visit if you are looking for some peace along with a spiritual awakening. You will especially find many monasteries in Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh and the picturesque town of Ladakh. These monasteries are not only culturally rich but also historically significant to India. Here is a list of the 10 most amazing and mind-blowing monasteries in India that must be on top of your bucket list.

A short 5-day tour of India is an excellent opportunity to focus on one exciting part of this vast country. If you have 5 days in India, you can do the famous Golden Triangle, which includes a visit to the Taj Mahal, the country’s most popular monument. Or go on repeat safaris at the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, increasing the chance of spotting the elusive Bengal tiger. You plan a customized trip to Kerala for 5 days and enjoy its backwaters. Or spend 5 days in Goa for the perfect introduction to some of India’s finest beaches like Palolem.