Who says the past is gone? In some cities in India, it still lives susurrating in the marble palaces, in fragrances of incense cones, in emerald lakes and in enchanting tones.

The country is an abode of cultures, a kaleidoscope of artistry, a chamber of devotion and a medley of bazaars.

Many eminent personalities like Albert Einstein, Mark Twain, Max Mueller, Romain Rolland, etc. have spoken gloriously about the country of dreamers. And if you love to travel, it’s self-evident that you love India.

And so, here are the top 10 cities in India you must visit at least once in a lifetime.

1. Agra

Fatehpur sikri, Photo by Pedro

Fatehpur sikri, Photo by Pedro, CC BY 2.0

The sure shot destination to begin your travel journey is to visit the City of Taj. With wonders like Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, the only time when your journey will end is never. Remember to carry a box of famous winter melons or Agre ka petha.

2. New Delhi

Lotus temple, Photo by harmeet

Lotus temple, Photo by harmeet, CC0 1.0

Check out world’s best shopping markets, explore rich heritage or delight your taste buds with tangy street food, the capital of India has something for everyone. The city boasts of a rich college culture and an attitude unmatched in its people.

Delhi is also home to many popular monuments like Jantar Mantar, Red Fort, Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple.

3. Pondicherry

Matri mandir(Auroville), Photo by LoggaWiggler

Matri mandir( Auroville), Photo by LoggaWiggler, CC0 1.0

With perpendicular streets and colonial style monuments, the South Indian city showcases French influence in its culture. Pondicherry attracts tourists every year, especially Auroville, a small town in Pondicherry.



Also known as the Paris of the East, the city has also been featured in Roald Dahl’s book Charlie and The Chocolate Factory.

4. Jaipur

Amer fort, Photo by spiritedbolderwomen

Amer fort, Photo by spiritedbolderwomen, CC0 1.0

The tales of Mughals and Rajputs seem to take over the imagination when you take a view from red sandstone jharokhas and marble lattices. Built around three centuries ago by the ruler of Amer Maharaja Jai Singh, Jaipur very intricately captures the lifestyle of the medieval era.

With other tourist places, Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort are a must-visits in Jaipur.

5. Kochi

Cape muroto, Photo by T_Murakami

Cape muroto, Photo by T_Murakami, CC0 1.0

The Queen of Arabian Sea, Kochi is perfect for a relaxing vacation away from the hustle of your daily life. Sit back in solitude at the Marine Drive or indulge in spicy coconut flavors, the city has so much to rejuvenate your senses.

6. Ladakh

Pangong tso, Photo by Jeevan

Pangong tso, Photo by Jeevan, CC0 1.0

For those who are ready to break free, Ladakh is a perfect destination. Endless passes unfold into a valley of rugged mountains and another moment you find yourself in the rustling serenity of a Buddhist monastery, colorful flags around.

If you want to engage in adventure sports, the Silk Route City offers trekking, mountaineering, water rafting and paragliding. Break free!

7. Aurangabad

Cities in India - Ellora caves, Photo by Arian Zwegers

Ellora caves, Photo by Arian Zwegers, CC BY 2.0

Aurangabad epitomizes a rich blend of Mughlai and Hyderabadi cultures. The Maharashtrian city houses Ajanta and Ellora Caves, one of the most visited tourist cities in India, are reminiscent of the Indian rock-cut architecture.

If you are a food lover, try Hyderabadi biryani and Naan Qaliya for sure. The cave city is also famous for its Mashru and Himroo shawls.

8. Varanasi

Cities in India - Ganga ghat, Photo by kraigseder

Ganga ghat, Photo by kraigseder, CC0 1.0

Varanasi, also called Banaras is a must-go on itinerary of every Indian who is a religious devotee. Dusky breeze on the streets, men in orange with smoky pipes and diyas lit from the Ghats, though overwhelmed with tourists the sight is subject to behold.

9. Srinagar

Cities in India - Shalimar garden, Photo by Ankur P.

Shalimar garden, Photo by Ankur P, CC BY-SA 2.0

To pray for heaven is a good thing but to only pray is, not at all when you can experience live Heaven of Earth here in Srinagar. Sitting ashore calm Dal Lake while witnessing the adorable Mughal gardens will perhaps make the most beautiful moments of your life.

If you are on your honeymoon, don’t miss a ride on colorful shikaras.

10. Amritsar

Cities in India - Golden temple Photo by cascayoyo

Golden temple, Photo by cascayoyo, CC0 1.0

With hearty people and hearty meals, Amritsar is sure to woo your heart. And its jewel, the Golden Temple, it’s needless to say that it actually scintillates a spiritual aura that pauses the thoughts for a while.

With cities so many and words so few, the charm India reflects is almost inexpressible. However, to begin with, you can plan your visit to these cities in India. Like beads in a thread, all cities are so connected that one will automatically take you to others.

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This Post Has One Comment

  1. David Jones

    Nice Blog. Keep the good work as you are already doing. Thanks for sharing this with us.

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