Top 10 Must-Visit Holiday Destinations in India for an Unforgettable Vacation

Global Team
19 Nov 2025 - 4 min read

Discover India's Most Beloved Holiday Spots

India, with its rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences, offers countless destinations for travelers seeking unforgettable holidays. From the snow-capped mountains of the north to the serene beaches of the south, the country presents a diverse palette of experiences for every type of traveler. Let's explore the top 10 most popular holiday destinations in India that continue to captivate both domestic and international tourists.

1. Goa - The Beach Paradise


Goa remains India's premier beach destination, attracting millions of visitors year-round.

Goa remains India's premier beach destination, attracting millions of visitors year-round.

Goa remains India's premier beach destination, attracting millions of visitors year-round. This coastal haven offers:

Beautiful Beaches: Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, and Palolem beaches showcase the best of Arabian Sea coastline
Vibrant Nightlife: Famous beach shacks, clubs, and music festivals
Portuguese Heritage: Historical churches, forts, and colonial architecture in Old Goa
Water Activities: Parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and dolphin spotting tours
Delicious Cuisine: Fresh seafood, vindaloo, xacuti, and bebinca

Best Time to Visit: November to February offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall.

Discover flight with Traveloka

Wed, 10 Dec 2025

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Jakarta (CGK) to Goa (GOI)

Start from USD 160.54

Wed, 10 Dec 2025

IndiGo

Jakarta (CGK) to Goa (GOI)

Start from USD 203.15

Wed, 26 Nov 2025

Thai Lion Air

Jakarta (CGK) to Goa (GOI)

Start from USD 282.75

2. Agra - Home of the Taj Mahal


Taj Mahal, symbolizes eternal love

No list of Indian destinations would be complete without mentioning Agra, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The Taj Mahal: The iconic marble mausoleum that symbolizes eternal love
Agra Fort: The impressive Mughal-era red sandstone fortress
Fatehpur Sikri: A nearby UNESCO World Heritage site
Mehtab Bagh: Perfect spot to view the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River
Mughlai Cuisine: Delectable petha, paratha, and kebabs

Best Time to Visit: October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Discover flight with Traveloka

Wed, 10 Dec 2025

AirAsia X

Jakarta (CGK) to New Delhi (DEL)

Start from USD 117.69

Mon, 1 Dec 2025

Air India Express

Bangkok (BKK) to New Delhi (DEL)

Start from USD 116.76

Wed, 10 Dec 2025

AirAsia X

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to New Delhi (DEL)

Start from USD 132.88

3. Kerala - God's Own Country

Kerala's lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments make it a must-visit destination.

Alleppey Backwaters: Houseboat cruises through picturesque waterways
Munnar: Sprawling tea plantations and misty mountains
Kovalam and Varkala: Pristine beaches with stunning sunsets
Thekkady: Wildlife sanctuary featuring the Periyar Tiger Reserve
Ayurvedic Treatments: Traditional wellness therapies and retreats

Best Time to Visit: September to March, avoiding the monsoon season.

4. Rajasthan - The Royal State

Experience royal heritage, vibrant culture, and desert landscapes in India's largest state.

Jaipur: The "Pink City" featuring Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, and City Palace
Udaipur: The romantic "City of Lakes" with the magnificent Lake Palace
Jaisalmer: The "Golden City" with its impressive desert fort and sand dunes
Jodhpur: The "Blue City" dominated by the imposing Mehrangarh Fort
Pushkar: Sacred lake and annual camel fair

Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the desert heat subsides.

5. Manali and Shimla - Himalayan Retreats

The hill stations of Himachal Pradesh offer respite from the plains with cool climates and stunning mountain views.

Manali: Adventure sports, Rohtang Pass, and Solang Valley
Shimla: Colonial architecture, Mall Road, and toy train journey
Kullu Valley: Lush greenery, apple orchards, and river rafting
Spiritual Sites: Hadimba Temple, Christ Church, and monasteries
Snow Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights in winter

Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather; December to February for snow experiences.

6. Varanasi - The Spiritual Capital

One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi offers a profound spiritual experience.

Ghats of Ganga: Witness the majestic Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Boat Rides: Dawn boat rides on the holy river
Ancient Temples: Kashi Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan, and many more
Sarnath: Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha first taught Dharma
Banarasi Silk: Shopping for world-famous Banarasi sarees and fabrics

Best Time to Visit: October to March, avoiding the intense summer heat.

7. Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Tropical Paradise

These remote islands offer some of India's most pristine beaches and diving opportunities.

Radhanagar Beach: Often rated among Asia's best beaches
Cellular Jail: Historical site with light and sound show
Scuba Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs at North Bay and Havelock Island
Ross Island: Abandoned British settlement reclaimed by nature
Water Sports: Snorkeling, sea walking, jet skiing, and glass-bottom boat rides

Best Time to Visit: October to May, avoiding the monsoon season.

8. Darjeeling - The Queen of Hills

Famous for its tea plantations and views of the Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling is a charming hill station.

Toy Train: UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Tiger Hill: Spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayas
Tea Gardens: Tours and tastings at world-famous tea estates
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Home to the red panda and snow leopard
Monasteries: Peace Pagoda and Ghoom Monastery

Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to December for clear mountain views.

9. Amritsar - The Golden City

The spiritual and cultural center of Sikhism offers a unique blend of faith, history, and culinary delights.

Golden Temple: The magnificent Harmandir Sahib, gleaming in gold
Wagah Border Ceremony: Witness the patriotic border-closing ritual
Jallianwala Bagh: Historical site of great significance
Punjabi Cuisine: Amritsari kulcha, lassi, and the langar at Golden Temple
Gobindgarh Fort: Recently opened historical fort with multimedia shows

Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is mild.

10. Rishikesh and Haridwar - Adventure and Spirituality

These twin cities along the Ganges offer both spiritual solace and adventure thrills.

Yoga Capital: Numerous ashrams and yoga centers
River Rafting: Thrilling white-water rafting on the Ganges
Ganga Aarti: Evening prayer ceremonies at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar
Laxman Jhula: Iconic suspension bridge with panoramic views
Trekking: Gateway to numerous Himalayan treks

Best Time to Visit: September to April, avoiding the monsoon season.

Plan Your Perfect Indian Holiday With Traveloka

India's diversity ensures that every traveler finds their perfect destination. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, spiritual enlightenment, or cultural immersion, these top 10 destinations offer experiences that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.

Before planning your trip, check for seasonal festivals that might enhance your visit, and consider the weather patterns of each region. With proper planning, your Indian holiday will truly be an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most fascinating countries.

What's your favorite Indian destination? Have you visited any of these popular spots? Share your experiences and plan your next adventure in incredible India and don't forget to find cheap flight ticket & book hotel in Traveloka!

In This Article

• Discover India's Most Beloved Holiday Spots
• 1. Goa - The Beach Paradise
• 2. Agra - Home of the Taj Mahal
• 3. Kerala - God's Own Country
• 4. Rajasthan - The Royal State
• 5. Manali and Shimla - Himalayan Retreats
• 6. Varanasi - The Spiritual Capital
• 7. Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Tropical Paradise
• 8. Darjeeling - The Queen of Hills
• 9. Amritsar - The Golden City
• 10. Rishikesh and Haridwar - Adventure and Spirituality
• Plan Your Perfect Indian Holiday With Traveloka

Flights Featured in This Article

Wed, 10 Dec 2025
AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)
Jakarta (CGK) to Goa (GOI)
Start from USD 160.54
Book Now
Wed, 10 Dec 2025
IndiGo
Jakarta (CGK) to Goa (GOI)
Start from USD 203.15
Book Now
Wed, 26 Nov 2025
Thai Lion Air
Jakarta (CGK) to Goa (GOI)
Start from USD 282.75
Book Now

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