5 Must Visit Tourist Destinations In India

India is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. India is known for its diversity – be it the diversity in cultures, traditions, and religions or diversity in its beautiful landscape. India is home to the highest mountain ranges in the world, the Himalayas. The stunning coastline of the southern part of the country on both sides makes South India one of the most magnificent peninsular regions to visit. If you go towards the western part of the country, you get to see the sprawling Thar Desert in Rajasthan and many forests, spiritual places, wildlife, and religious places that unite all the major religions of the world.

# Taj Mahal, Agra

One of the most recognizable symbols of India is the mighty Taj Mahal. The world’s most famous testimony to love, the Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this beautiful ode should be the first stop on your trip to India. This is one of the most stunning mausoleums globally that took over 20,000 workers and artisans to complete in 1648. The Taj Mahal is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built mainly with white marble decorated with delicate inlaid floral patterns and many precious stones, the Taj Mahal is the most famous monument in India. You can also see some exquisite black calligraphy around the entrance. The best time of the day to visit the Taj Mahal is either at dawn or dusk, to see the monument bathed in the light of the rising and setting sun. In recent times, the Government has allowed special visits to the Taj Mahal on full moon nights when the monument gets covered in the silver light of the full moon. It is also a breathtaking experience to view the Taj Mahal’s reflection from the bank of the Yamuna River.

# Holy City of Varanasi

Varanasi or Benaras is a major pilgrimage center for Hindus from all over the world. Varanasi is a major tourist destination. Visitors worldwide come here to check out the famous Ganga Aarti that takes place by the banks of the mighty Ganga River in the evening. The holy city of Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

There are many reasons to visit this fantastic city. One of the biggest reasons is to get a rare opportunity to explore the Old Quarter located next to the Ganges River. It is here that the majestic Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located. Built-in 1780, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the must-see places in India. Hundreds of pilgrims come here to get a glimpse of the Lord Shiva’s Shivlinga in the revered temple.

# Jaisalmer, the Desert City of Rajasthan

Also known as the Golden City of Jaisalmer, this stunning desert city is famous for the beautiful yellow sandstone used in constructing most of its buildings, owing to the name Golden City. Jaisalmer is a magnificent oasis of old royal architecture that rises out of the golden sand dunes of the famous Thar Desert. When you are in India, a visit to this city is a must to check out the Thar Desert. You can even spend a night in the desert as part of the many night stay camps that the nearby resorts organize for visitors.

# Beaches of Goa

Goa has always been the ‘go-to destination in India for those who want a relaxed holiday on the beach. The stunning western coastline of Goa overlooks the majestic Arabian Sea, stretching for over 60 miles of untouched beaches. There are so many beaches in Goa that you will be wondering which one to visit next. All of them have their own unique appeal. For those who want to relax in a peaceful atmosphere, the best beaches are the secluded Agonda Beach, while the Calangute Beach is for those who want to get lost amidst the partying crowd of Goa.

# Ellora Caves, Aurangabad

The Ellora Caves are one of the most fascinating destinations in India. You must visit this monumental structure. Built somewhere between the 5th and 10th centuries by Jain, Buddhist, and Hindu monks, Ellora Caves make for an excellent trip. The caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, having a collection of 34 beautifully carved monasteries, temples, and chapels. Out of these, 17 are Hindu, 12 are Buddhist, and five temples are of the Jain community. These were all built close together, an indication of the religious harmony that existed during this period.