Best Holiday Destinations in India –Ultimate Travel Guide

Best Holiday Destinations in India – Your Ultimate Travel Guide

India is a land of mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant cultures and endless adventures. It offers some of the best holiday destinations in the world. India has something to offer everyone whether you are chasing snow-capped peaks, peaceful beaches or bustling city life. Let’s dive into a curated guide of top holiday destinations in India from summer holiday destinations in India to winter escapes to inspire your next getaway!

India has something for everyone whether it is the serene backwaters of Kerala, the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra or the vibrant streets of Jaipur! You can explore the French charm of Pondicherry, the ancient ruins of Hampi or the strawberry fields of Mahabaleshwar. Adventure seekers will love skiing in Auli, trekking in Spiti Valley or riding the iconic gondola in Gulmarg. Families can enjoy a cultural trip to Puri, luxury stays in Mumbai or a peaceful houseboat cruise in Alleppey. With destinations like the white desert of Rann of Kutch, the pretty Dalhousie and the bustling beaches of Goa every corner of India is a traveler’s dream. Ready to pack your bags? Let India surprise and inspire you!

Best Summer Holiday Destinations in India

When the temperatures soar, these cool retreats become the favorite destinations in India for travelers looking to escape the heat.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – Cool mountain air and British-era charm

Shimla is the queen of hill stations offers an escape into misty mountains, colonial architecture and bustling bazaars. Shimla is truly one of the best vacation places in India for a peaceful summer retreat.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Shimla Airport (21 km) is the nearest airport.
• By Train: Kalka-Shimla railway connects Shimla to major cities.
• By Road: From Delhi, Shimla is 367 km away.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Wildflower Hall, Oberoi (₹35,000/night) – A royal retreat amidst cedar forests.
• Budget: Hotel Willow Banks (₹3,500/night) – Comfortable stay with a view of Mall Road.

Things to Do:

• Stroll along Mall Road and visit Christ Church.
• Explore Kufri for adventure sports.
• Visit the iconic Jakhoo Temple.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu – Rolling tea gardens and serene lake views

Ooty is situated in the Nilgiris famed for its sprawling tea estates, the pretty Ooty Lake and the quaint toy train rides. Don’t miss the stunning botanical gardens a haven for nature lovers. Ooty is a must-visit if you are looking for top holiday destinations in India.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Coimbatore International Airport is approximately 88 km from Ooty.
• By Train: The Mettupalayam railway station (52 km away) is the closest major railhead. From Mettupalayam you can hop on a UNESCO World Heritage toy train Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Ooty. The ride offers breathtaking views and is an experience in itself.
• By Road: Ooty is well-connected by road to major cities like Bangalore (265 km) and Chennai (557 km).

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Savoy – IHCL SeleQtions (₹16,000/night) – A stunning colonial-style property with modern amenities, manicured gardens and impeccable service. Perfect for a relaxing retreat.
• Budget: Zostel Ooty (₹1,500/night) – dorm bed perfect for budget travelers and backpackers.

Things to Do:

• Visit the Ooty Botanical Gardens.
• Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
• Explore Ooty Lake, Visit the Rose Garden, Wander Through Tea Gardens.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Adventure, riverside cafes, and lush valleys

Manali is a magnet for adventure seekers and nature lovers. It is one of the best holiday places in India to recharge your soul. It offer paragliding in Solang Valley to café-hopping along Old Manali’s riverside.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Bhuntar Airport (50 km).
• By Train: Joginder Nagar railway station (162 km).
• By Road: Direct buses and taxis available from Delhi (520 km).

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Himalayan (₹18,000/night) – A castle-style retreat within snow-capped peaks.
• Budget: Zostel Manali (₹1,200/night) – Perfect for budget travelers and backpackers.

Things to Do:

• Paragliding and zorbing in Solang Valley.
• Visit the peaceful Hidimba Devi Temple.
• Explore the Old Manali cafes and markets.

Best Holiday Destinations in December

Winter transforms many popular travel destinations in India into magical wonderlands. December is ideal for exploring these gems:

Goa – Beaches, music festivals, and Christmas vibes

The party capital of India comes alive in December with its iconic Sunburn Festival, beach parties and festive celebrations. It is also perfect for lazy beach days and trying out seafood delicacies.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Goa International Airport is well-connected to major cities.
• By Train: Madgaon and Vasco-da-Gama railway stations are nearest railway station.
• By Road: Frequent buses and cabs are available from Mumbai (592 km).

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Leela Goa (₹25,000/night) is Stunning beachside resort.
• Budget: Rivasa Resort (₹3,000/night) is Affordable and close to Calangute Beach.

Things to Do:

• Attend Sunburn Festival for music and fun.
• Explore the beaches of Anjuna and Palolem.
• Visit the churches in Old Goa.

Rajasthan – Udaipur, Jaipur, and Jaisalmer’s royal winter escape

Rajasthan shines in winter with pleasant weather and royal grandeur. Visit Jaipur for its palaces, Udaipur for its lakes and Jaisalmer for its desert safaris. Truly a top 10 holiday destination in India!

How to Reach:

• By Air: Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur airports serve the region.
• By Train: Well-connected by Indian Railways to all major cities.
• By Road: Smooth highways connect Rajasthan to Delhi and Gujarat.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur (₹40,000/night).
• Budget: Zostel Jaipur (₹1,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Take a camel safari in the Thar Desert.
• Visit the Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur.
• Explore the beautiful City Palace in Udaipur.

Andaman Islands – Crystal-clear waters and underwater adventures

The Andaman Islands are paradise for those craving tropical vibes. You can Snorkel, scuba dive or simply unwind by pristine beaches. December offers the best weather to explore this favorite destination in India.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Port Blair Airport serve Andaman and Nicobar Island.
• By Sea: Cruises available from Chennai, Vizag, Mumbai and Kolkata.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Taj Exotica Resort (₹45,000/night) – Situated on Havelock Island.
• Budget: Seashell Resort (₹6,000/night) – Comfortable and cozy.

Things to Do:

• Scuba diving and snorkeling at Radhanagar Beach.
• Visit Cellular Jail and Ross Island for historical insights.
• Explore coral reefs on a glass-bottom boat ride.

Best Holiday Destinations in June

As the monsoon begins certain spots in India bloom into lush paradises making them perfect for vacation trips in India.

Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir – Breathtaking landscapes and thrilling road trips

Ladakh is one of the best vacation destinations in India with its dramatic landscapes and winding roads. Visit Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley and the monasteries for an unforgettable experience.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Leh Airport serve Leh and Ladakh
• By Road: Accessible via the Leh-Manali Highway.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Grand Dragon Ladakh (₹20,000/night).
• Budget: Zostel Leh (₹1,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Visit Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley.
• Explore monasteries like Hemis and Thiksey.
• Go on a bike ride through Khardung La Pass.

Coorg, Karnataka – Misty coffee plantations and cascading waterfalls

Coorg is known as the Scotland of India and a monsoon wonderland with its coffee estates, Abbey Falls, and Nagarhole National Park.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Mangalore Airport (141 km).
• By Train: Mysore railway station (117 km).
• By Road: Easily accessible by road from Bangalore (250 km).

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Taj Madikeri Resort (₹28,000/night).
• Budget: Coorg Jungle Camp Resort (₹3,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Trek to Abbey Falls and Raja’s Seat.
• Enjoy a coffee plantation tour.
• Visit the origin of the Cauvery River Talacauvery

Shillong, Meghalaya – Pleasant weather and the charm of the Scotland of the East

Shillong’s lush landscapes lively markets and gorgeous waterfalls make it one of the best places to visit for vacation in India in June.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Shillong Airport (30 km).
• By Train: Guwahati railway station (100 km).
• By Road: A scenic drive of 3 hours from Guwahati.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Ri Kynjai (₹10,000/night) – Lakeside elegance with Khasi hospitality.
• Budget: The Habitat Shillong (₹3,000/night) – Cozy and affordable.

Things to Do:

• Visit Elephant Falls and Ward’s Lake.
• Explore Mawphlang Sacred Forest.
• Go boating in Umiam Lake.

Best Holiday Destinations in May

For those planning a spring getaway May offers some of the top holiday destinations in India to explore.

Darjeeling, West Bengal – Tea estates and toy train rides

The cool breeze of Darjeeling’s hills the aroma of fresh tea and the iconic toy train make this a holiday spot in India you can’t miss.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Bagdogra Airport (70 km).
• By Train: New Jalpaiguri railway station is nearest railway station approx. 70 km away.
• By Road: Accessible via Siliguri by 3 hours drive.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Mayfair Darjeeling (₹15,000/night).
• Budget: Zostel Darjeeling (₹2,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Ride the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
• Visit Tiger Hill for a sunrise over Kanchenjunga.
• Sip on fresh tea at local plantations.

Munnar, Kerala – Calmness in lush greenery

Munnar is a haven for nature lovers with rolling tea gardens calm lakes and mist-covered hills. A perfect addition to your list of top 5 holiday destinations in India.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Cochin International Airport is 107 km away.
• By Train: Aluva railway station is 108 km away.
• By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: SpiceTree Munnar (₹12,000/night).
• Budget: Tea Harvester Munnar (₹3,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Wander through rolling tea gardens.
• Visit Eravikulam National Park and Mattupetty Dam.
• Enjoy trekking and wildlife spotting at Anamudi Peak.

Auli, Uttarakhand – A cool paradise for summer

Auli is famous for its meadows and skiing slopes and the ultimate best vacation destination in India for families and couples alike.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (271 km).
• By Train: Haridwar railway station (277 km).
• By Road: Well-connected via Joshimath with major places.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Cliff Top Club (₹10,000/night).
• Budget: Blue Poppy Resorts (₹3,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Ski on the pristine slopes of Auli.
• Ride the Auli Ropeway for panoramic views.
• Trek to Gorson Bugyal and Auli Lake.

Best Winter Holiday Destinations in India

If cozying up in chilly weather or skiing through snow-laden slopes sounds like your idea of fun then these places are perfect:

Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir – A skier’s delight with snowy slopes

Gulmarg is known as the skiing capital of India and offers postcard-perfect views and thrilling winter sports.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Srinagar Airport is 62 km away.
• By Road: Cabs from Srinagar take about 2 hours.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Khyber Himalayan Resort (₹30,000/night).
• Budget: Pine View Hotel (₹3,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Ski or snowboard on Gulmarg’s powdery slopes.
• Ride the Gulmarg Gondola for stunning vistas.
• Visit St. Mary’s Church and enjoy the snowy landscapes.

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat – The magical White Desert Festival

Every winter the Rann of Kutch transforms into an ethereal wonderland during the Rann Utsav. Experience the cultural extravaganza under a starlit sky.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Bhuj Airport is just 70 km away.
• By Train: Bhuj railway station is well connected with major cities.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Tent City (₹10,000/night).
• Budget: Rann Village Resort (₹3,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Experience the Rann Utsav a cultural extravaganza.
• Visit Kala Dungar for panoramic desert views.
• Enjoy camel rides and traditional Gujarati cuisine.

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh – Quaint charm and chilly pine forests

Dalhousie’s tranquil vibe and colonial architecture make it a cheap holiday destination in India for a quiet winter escape.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Pathankot Airport is 87 km away.
• By Train: Pathankot railway station is 82 km away.
• By Road: Accessible by buses and cabs from Delhi and Chandigarh.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Grand View Hotel (₹10,000/night).
• Budget: Zostel Dalhousie (₹1,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Explore Khajjiar known as the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
• Visit Satdhara Falls and St. John’s Church.
• Trek to Dainkund Peak for breathtaking views.

Best Holiday Destination near Delhi

Quick weekend getaways from Delhi include:

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Riverside retreats and adventure sports

The yoga capital of the world is also a haven for rafting, trekking and peaceful riverside stays.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Rishikesh railway station is just 1 km.
• By Road: A 6-hour drive from Delhi.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Ananda in the Himalayas (₹45,000/night).
• Budget: Shiv Shakti Hostel (₹1,200/night).

Things to Do:

• Go white-water rafting on the Ganges.
• Enjoy a peaceful Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat.
• Try bungee jumping and yoga retreats.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh – Iconic Taj Mahal and historical grandeur

The Taj Mahal is a timeless beauty but Agra also boasts delicious Mughlai food and vibrant bazaars.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi is 230 km away.
• By Train: Agra Cantt railway station is major station connected with important cities.
• By Road: A 3-hour drive from Delhi.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Oberoi Amarvilas (₹30,000/night).
• Budget: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre (₹3,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Witness the sunrise at the Taj Mahal.
• Visit Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
• Shop for marble souvenirs in Sadar Bazaar.

Jaipur, Rajasthan – A weekend of forts, palaces, and vibrant bazaars

Jaipur’s Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal are must-visits for architecture lovers.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Jaipur International Airport serve Jaipur and well connected by flights with other cities.
• By Train: Jaipur Junction is main railway station connected with major cities.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Rambagh Palace (₹40,000/night).
• Budget: Zostel Jaipur (₹1,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Explore Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal and City Palace.
• Shop for handicrafts and jewelry in local bazaars.
• Enjoy Rajasthani cuisine at Chokhi Dhani.

Best Family Holiday Destinations in India

For a memorable family getaway these spots rank among the best family holiday destinations in India:

Mysore, Karnataka – Family-friendly palace tours and gardens

Explore the grandeur of Mysore Palace and the beautiful Brindavan Gardens.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Bangalore Airport is 175 km away.
• By Train: Mysore Junction serve as major railway station.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Radisson Blu Plaza (₹10,000/night).
• Budget: The Quorum (₹3,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Visit the grand Mysore Palace.
• Enjoy the Mysore Zoo and Brindavan Gardens.
• Relish Mysore Pak the famous sweet.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand – Safari adventures for all ages

Spot tigers and elephants in their natural habitat at one of the India’s oldest national parks.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Ramnagar railway station is 12 km.
• By Road: Well-connected by road from Delhi 221 km.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Riverview Retreat (₹12,000/night).
• Budget: Tiger Camp Resort (₹4,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Go on a jungle safari for tiger sightings.
• Visit the Corbett Museum.
• Enjoy birdwatching by the Kosi River.

Puri, Odisha – Temples and family beach fun

Puri’s pristine beaches and the famous Jagannath Temple make it a family favorite.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Bhubaneswar Airport (63 km).
• By Train: Puri railway station is major railway station.
• By Road: Easily accessible by road from Bhubaneswar.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Mayfair Heritage (₹10,000/night).
• Budget: Hotel Holiday Resort (₹3,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Visit a sacred pilgrimage site the Jagannath Temple.
• Relax on Puri Beach.
• Explore the Sun Temple in Konark (35 km away).

Best Holiday Destinations in August

Monsoons drench these below mentioned regions turning them into lush and dreamy escapes.

Kerala – God’s Own Country – Monsoon magic and lush backwaters

Kerala in August is a lush paradise. Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey and explore the Western Ghats.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Cochin or Trivandrum Airport.
• By Train: Multiple railway stations across the state.
• By Road: Well-connected highways and buses.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Kumarakom Lake Resort (₹25,000/night).
• Budget: Cosy Houseboats (₹4,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Cruise on a houseboat in Alleppey’s backwaters.
• Visit tea plantations in Munnar.
• Experience traditional Kathakali dance and Kerala cuisine.

Munnar, Kerala – Lush hills drenched in rain

Munnar’s beauty is amplified by the rains making it a romantic retreat.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Cochin or Trivandrum Airport.
• By Train: Major railway station near Munnar is Ernakulam Junction 123 km away.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Kumarakom Lake Resort (₹25,000/night).
• Budget: Coconut Lagoon Resort (₹4,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Sail in a houseboat on Alleppey’s backwaters.
• Witness the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race.
• Visit Athirappilly Falls.

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh – Dramatic landscapes and quiet monasteries

The raw beauty of Spiti in August makes it a haven for offbeat travelers.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Accessible via the Manali-Kaza Road (open June to October).

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Spiti Heritage Homestay (₹6,000/night) – A cozy retreat in the mountains.
• Budget: Zostel Spiti (₹1,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Visit the Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery.
• Trek to Chandratal Lake and Pin Valley National Park.
• Explore quaint villages like Langza and Komic.

Best Holiday Destinations in Maharashtra

Maharashtra offers an incredible mix of mountains, beaches and city life:

Lonavala and Khandala – Monsoon-perfect getaways near Mumbai

These twin hill stations are all about green valleys, cascading waterfalls and scenic treks.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Lonavala railway station.
• By Road: A 2-hour drive from Mumbai.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Della Resorts (₹15,000/night).
• Budget: Whispering Woods (₹2,500/night).

Things to Do:

• Visit Tiger’s Point and Bhushi Dam.
• Explore Karla and Bhaja Caves.

Mahabaleshwar – Strawberry fields and scenic views

Mahabaleshwar is known for its strawberries and misty hills and one of the top holiday destinations in India.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Pune Airport 130 km away.
• By Train: Satara railway station 63 km away.
• By Road: A scenic drive from Mumbai or Pune.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort (₹18,000/night).
• Budget: Hotel Shreyas (₹2,800/night).

Things to Do:

• Visit the strawberry farms and enjoy fresh fruit.
• Take in the views at Wilson Point and Elephant’s Head Point.
• Boat on Venna Lake and explore the Pratapgad Fort.

Mumbai – Vibrant city life with coastal charm

From Marine Drive to historic landmarks Mumbai never sleeps and offers something for everyone.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.
• By Train: Well-connected to all major cities in India.
• By Road: Smooth highways connect Mumbai to Pune and Gujarat.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: The Taj Mahal Palace (₹25,000/night) – Iconic and luxurious.
• Budget: Hotel Kumkum (₹2,500/night) – Affordable and central.

Things to Do:

• Stroll along Marine Drive and enjoy the sunset.
• Visit the Gateway of India and take a ferry to Elephanta Caves.
• Shop and eat at Colaba Causeway and Bandra.

Best Holiday Destinations in South India

Southern India is a gold mines of culture, beaches and greenery:

Alleppey, Kerala – Houseboats and calm backwaters

Stay on a houseboat, enjoy Kerala cuisine and soak in the passive backwaters of Alleppey.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Alleppey railway station.
• By Road: Drive from Kochi 53 km away.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Lake Palace Resort (₹10,000/night).
• Budget: Cosy Houseboats (₹4,000/night).

Things to Do:

• Cruise the backwaters on a houseboat.
• Explore the Alappuzha Beach.

Pondicherry – French charm meets Indian culture

Pondicherry’s colorful streets, pristine beaches and French-inspired cafes make it one of the best places to go on holiday.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Puducherry Airport is 3.5 km away from city.
• By Train: Villupuram railway station is 38 km away.
• By Road: A scenic drive from Chennai via the East Coast Road (3 hours).

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Palais de Mahe (₹12,000/night) – French-style elegance with modern comforts.
• Budget: A La Villa Creole (₹2,000/night) – Homely and affordable.

Things to Do:

• Walk along the charming French Quarter.
• Relax at Serenity and Paradise beaches.
• Visit Auroville and the iconic Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

Hampi, Karnataka – Breathtaking heritage and landscapes

Lose yourself in the ruins of Hampi which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Hubli Airport is the nearest airport 170 km away.
• By Train: Hospet Junction is just 13 km from Hampi.
• By Road: Direct buses and cabs are available from Bangalore and the distance is 344 km.

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Evolve Back Hampi (₹22,000/night) – A regal retreat with heritage vibes.
• Budget: Padma Guest House (₹1,500/night) – Cozy and pocket-friendly.

Things to Do:

• Explore the iconic Virupaksha Temple and Vijaya Vittala Temple.
• Watch the sunrise at Matanga Hill.
• Roam through the ruins of Hampi Bazaar and take coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River.

Conclusion

India’s diverse landscape is like an endless buffet of stunning holiday spots in India waiting to be explored. From cheap holiday destinations in India for budget travelers to luxurious retreats the country has something for every type of wanderer. So, pack your bags, book your tickets and embark on a journey to one of these top 10 holiday destinations in India. Your next adventure awaits!

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