Top 10 Popular Indian Travel Destinations to Escape the Ordinary

Amid the daily hustle and bustle of city life, a short break is all you need to rejuvenate your soul. After all, nothing can beat the soul-soothing and fun experience of a short sojourn with your loved ones. Don’t you agree?

Having said that, we understand that planning a trip, even if it’s short, can be quite a task. You’ve to first plan your travel experience and then look for opinions and current trends to find destinations that match your desires. Phew! A lot of research to do. But don’t worry! Here’s something to make the job easier for you.

We’ve prepared a list of the top 10 holiday destinations in India to help you plan a relaxing and inspiring short holiday. Right from vibrant culture to stunning topography, historical marvels, thrilling activities, pilgrimages, culinary experiences and whatnot, these Indian travel destinations have a lot of beautiful things to offer. Check them out now!

10 Gorgeous Vacation Places in India for a Memorable and Magical Experience
Here’s our ultimate list of the 10 best holiday destinations in India that guarantee a mind-blowing and thrilling short vacation:

1. Rajasthan – The Land of Maharajas

Rajasthan is one of the most treasured jewels in India’s crown, with its historic forts and majestic palaces to wildlife adventures and colourful festivals.

The state is dotted with several tourist attractions, including havelis, forts, incredible villages, wildlife sanctuaries and famous deserts, which makes it an ideal holiday destination for visitors of all ages. Some of the historic palaces have also been transformed into royal heritage hotels for a luxurious and unforgettable holiday experience.

Besides, the vim and vigour with which the cattle fairs take place in Nagaur and Pushkar is truly something to behold. In addition, the state offers various opportunities for birdwatching and tiger sighting.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: September to March

Places to visit in Rajasthan:

• Udaipur
• Jaipur
• Jaisalmer

Things to do in Rajasthan:

• Experience the royalty of a heritage hotel
• Stargaze in the midst of the desert
• Enjoy hot air ballooning in Jaipur

Famous dishes: Dal Bati Churma, Mohan Thaal, Shahi Gatte
What to buy: Jewellery and Gemstones, Pottery, Carpets
Our recommendation for 2023 – Glamping in Rajasthan

2. Goa – The Land of Beautiful Beaches

The state of Goa is popular for its plethora of gorgeous beaches, exciting nightlife, exhilarating watersports, and great seafood. Being one of the most popular beach holiday destinations in India, Goa has many attractions and activities to keep all its tourists engaged.

A place is a great option for a getaway with friends and an ideal honeymoon destination. With activities like sea rafting, motorised paragliding, trekking, and bungee jumping, you can take your holiday experience to the next level.

Minimum duration: 3 Nights
Best time to visit: October to March
Places to visit in Goa:

• Panaji
• Margao
• Ponda

Things to do in Goa:

• Stay at a Rainforest Estate
• Reside in a heritage bungalow
• Explore the less-known South Goa beaches

Famous dishes: Pork Vindaloo, Prawn Balchão or Prawns Xec Xec
What to buy: Sea Shells, Feni, Cashew Nuts
Our recommendation for 2023 – Palolem in Goa

3. Kerala – The Spice Garden of India

Adorned with lush and sprawling tea estates, emerald backwaters, the azure Arabian Sea, and pristine hill stations, Kerala is an alluring South Indian travel destination that anyone will fall in love with at once.

In addition to its scenic natural beauty, the state is also known for its rich culture, which is embellished with delectable cuisine, festivals, literature, dances, art and craft, and Ayurveda therapies.

Be it wildlife, beaches, backwaters, houseboats, or hill stations, Kerala has it all. You have to experience it to get it.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: September to March
Places to visit in Kerala:

• Kumarakom
• Wayanad
• Marrari

Things to do in Kerala:

• Stay in a Houseboat
• Experience a Theyyam Performance
• Take a Spice Tour

Famous dishes: Meen Chatti Curry, Parrotta and Beef Fry, Kappa and Mathi Curry

What to buy: Aromatic Oils and Essences, Handicrafts, Banana Chips
Our recommendation for 2023 – Chill at the beachfront resorts in Marari, Kerala

4. Gujarat – The Land of Lions

Being an electric mixture of varied Indian traditions and cultures, as well as geographically diverse, Gujarat has many reasons to be included in your travel diary. From the hills of Saputara to the Great Rann of Kutch, the state offers mesmerising scenic beauty. Even better? It is the only place in the world to view pure Asiatic lions.

Adding to the already rich Gujarat tourism is the Statue of Unity, which is the world’s largest statue. The richness in heritage, history and culture will spellbind you on the very first visit!

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: October to February
Places to visit in Gujarat:

• Rann of Kutch
• Statue of Unity
• Gir National Park

Things to do in Gujarat:

• Visit Dwarka and Somnath
• Stay at Rann on a full moon day
• Spot the Asiatic lions

Famous dishes: Khandvi, Dhokla, Thepla
What to buy: Patola Silk Sarees, Khadi Clothes and Handicrafts, Bandhani Fabric
Our recommendation for 2023 – Gir National Park in Gujarat

5. Andaman – The Man Island

Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast or an adventurer, a visit to Andaman is all you need to create amazing travel memories. Featuring palm-fringed beaches surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, Andaman is nothing short of a ‘tropical paradise’.

This piece of heaven in Asia is untouched and serene – a treasure trove of delights and experiences in the form of breathtaking sceneries, varied activities, and delectable seafood.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: October to May
Places to visit in Andaman:

• Port Blair
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island

Things to do in Andaman:

• Scuba diving
• Mangrove kayaking
• Explore the limestone caves

Famous dishes: Chilli Curry, Fish Curry, Seafood Barbeques
What to buy: Pearls, Timber Crafts, Spices
Our recommendation for 2023 – Swaraj Dweep in Andaman

6. Ladakh – The Land of High Passes

Adorned with lofty barren mountains, Ladakh boasts a jaw-dropping landscape. It is surreal to see the snow, mountains, cold desert, lakes, and alpine meadows at a short distance from one another.

Ladakh is highly popular amongst nature lovers and adventurers who love the thrilling activities offered by the union territory. So if you’re looking for the best summer holiday destinations in India, head over to Ladakh without any second thoughts!

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: April to July
Places to visit in Ladakh:

• Nubra Valley
• Alchi Valley
• Khardungla Pass
• Things to do in Ladakh:
• Trekking
• Camping
• Star Gazing

Famous dishes: Thukpa, Momos, Tingmo
What to buy: Ladakhi Ornaments, Pashmina Woollens and Shawls, Tibetan Wares and Handicrafts
Our recommendation for 2023 – Stargazing in Hanle Village

7. Kashmir – The Heaven on Earth

With saffron fields, apple orchards, breathtaking meadows and glittering lakes, Kashmir grabs the attention of tourists from across the world. The magnificent views, tranquil settings, and pristine nature make Kashmir an ideal holiday destination in India to plan a honeymoon or family tour.

From an adrenaline-pumping adventure to a wonderful stay at a houseboat, Kashmir has everything you need to make your holiday special.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: April to September
Places to visit in Kashmir:

• Gulmarg
• Sonmarg
• Pahalgam
• Things to do in Kashmir:
• Horse Riding
• Trekking
• Gondola Ride in Gulmarg

Famous dishes: Goshtaba, Nadru Yakhni, Sheermal
What to buy: Pashmina Blankets and Shawls, Traditional Jewellery, Carpets
Our recommendation for 2023 – An overnight stay in Gulmarg and experience the Gondola cable car ride

8. Sikkim – The Paradise of Botanists

Located in North East India, Sikkim is one of the favourite holiday destinations in India. Its amazing landscape is dotted with rolling green mountains, high-altitude lakes, azure rivers, colourful rhododendron groves, beautiful monasteries, milky waterfalls and unparalleled views of Mt. Khangchendzonga/Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain.

The sightseeing tours include art and craft centres, Buddhist monasteries, and cable car rides. The tourist attractions here are exciting and beautiful, with many activities on offer. They have something unique for every tourist.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: April to June
Places to visit in Sikkim:

• Pelling
• Lachung
• Lachen

Things to do in Sikkim:

• Visit the Tsomgo Lake
• Visit the Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake
• Visit the Rumtek Monastery

Famous dishes: Phagshapa, Sha Phaley, Sinki
What to buy: Sikkim Tea, Tibetan Carpets, Sikkimese Cups
Our recommendation for 2023 – Ravangla in Sikkim

9. Meghalaya – The Abode of Clouds

Filled with captivating waterfalls, huge hills, numerous lakes, valleys, sacred forests, and pitch-dark caves, Meghalaya is a nature lover’s paradise. You can experience foggy hills, cascading waterfalls, panoramic views, serpentine rivers, and terraced slopes enthralling your soul.

The state has so much to offer to every tourist. While families and friends can relax in the lap of Mother Nature, couples can have a romantic tour amidst the pleasant climate, and adventure enthusiasts can experience trekking through the tough terrains.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: October to June
Places to visit in Meghalaya:

• Cherrapunji
• Shillong
• Mawlynnong

Things to do in Meghalaya:

• Attend a music festival
• Nongriat Trek
• Boating on Dawki

Famous dishes: Jadoh, Nakham Bitchi, Doh-Khlieh
What to buy: Junk Jewellery, Shawls, Bamboo Products
Our recommendation for 2023 – Kongthong in Meghalaya

10. Assam – The Tea Garden of India

Being culturally and visually a little ahead of the other Northeastern States of India, Assam boasts plenty of mesmerising secrets.

With a string of Hindu temples, a cuisine with distinctive aromas and flavours, a vibrant artistic heritage, a hospitable and welcoming population of locals, and an artistic and picturesque site embellished with different dance forms, the state is a heady mix of culture, nature, and history at the same time.

Minimum duration: 4 Nights
Best time to visit: November to May
Places to visit in Assam:

• Guwahati
• Kaziranga National Park
• Manas National Park

Things to do in Assam:

• Experience cruising at the River Brahmaputra
• Enjoy Bihu and the Tea Festival
• Spot one-horned Rhinos

Famous dishes: Maasor Tenga, Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura, Aloo Pitika
What to buy: Organic Tea, Handloom Products, Metal Crafts
Our recommendation for 2023 – Majuli Island in Assam

Wrapping Up,

Intrigued? Well, now all that’s left to do is for you to be ready with your bags and go on that short vacation you’ve been wanting for ages!

Get in touch with us at GoTraveLab and book unforgettable travel experiences to destinations both close and far. We craft customised experiences keeping in mind your preferences, tastes, and requirements to make every trip unforgettable. With us, your dream vacation is just a click away.