With twenty-eight states and eight union territories, India is geographically huge and culturally & linguistically diverse. Offering a pocket full of surprises at every step of the way, India not only fascinates, but also enchants.
Here’s our handpicked list of the best states to visit in the Republic of India!
Pro Tip: If India is on your travel bucket list, note that it’s not possible to tour the entire country in one go. In fact, you might have to make multiple trips just to cover a complete single state. Plan your itinerary accordingly and stick to your plan once you arrive in the country!
#1: Goa
With vibrant beach culture, magical sunsets, lively party scene, and delicious food, Goa in Western India is one of the most internationally well-known states.
Head to the Arambol Beach if you’re vouching for a lazy and laid-back day and to catch the most amazing sunset ever!
If you’re in the party mood, the Anjuna Beach will serve you well! Drive down to the Calangute Beach to engage in water sports like windsurfing and water skiing!
History buffs can head to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of Goa’s oldest churches, and marvel at its architecture …
… and visit Margao, the South Goan city that proudly boasts the state’s Portuguese colonial past through its beautiful art and architecture.
While in Panjim, the Goan capital, don’t forget to visit the famous Mapusa Market and take home some souvenirs. Don't forget to try some authentic Goan dishes too!
#2: Rajasthan
If you’re a history enthusiast who also loves colorful landscape and rich & spicy food, the North Indian state of Rajasthan will not disappoint you!
Full of fascinating forts, palaces, and royal vibe, Rajasthan will take you back in time when India was ruled by the kings who were not only brave, but also loved to lead luxurious lives.
Start with Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital and India’s Pink City, and marvel at its glorious architecture and vibrant culture.
Then, head to Udaipur, India’s White City, and stay in one of the lavish heritage hotels – a, experience that will make you feel like a royal!
The desert city of Jaisalmer is unique in its own right. One of the few fortified settlements in India, its majestic Havelis will truly fascinate you.
The city of Pushkar is known for the world-renowned Camel Fair held between October and November every year. The city is also home to the world’s only living Brahma shrine.
If you love the paranormal, Rajasthan has you covered on that front too! Two of the most haunted places in India – the Bhangarh Fort and the Kuldhara village – are in this state.
Don’t forget to catch the famous Rajasthani puppet show, and the Ghoomar, Bhavai, and Kachchhi Ghodi folk performances to get a feel of authentic Rajasthani culture!
#3: Gujarat
Another western Indian state worth the visit, Gujarat boasts numerous beautiful beaches, temples, and historical sites.
Experience intense urbanism and lively ambience in Ahmedabad; Gandhinagar, Gujarat’s capital, is more laid-back with a homely vibe.
Go diamond and clothes-shopping in Surat, and travel back in time in Rajkot and Junagadh.
The adorable temples of Somnath, Bet Dwaraka, and Modhera also pack quite the punch.
Head to the Gir National Park to see the Asiatic Lions up close, and visit Porbandar, Dandi, and Sabarmati to go back to the Gandhian times.
#4: Himachal Pradesh
Sitting at the foothills of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most picturesque states of India. If you’re a nature buff, add this state to your travel bucket list!
With snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, friendly people, and a laid-back vibe, you can never have enough of Himachal Pradesh.
Begin your trip from Shimla, the state’s capital. It’s the picture-perfect destination with beautiful hilltop mansions and vibrant markets.
Next, head to the hill stations of Kullu and Manali, two of the most picturesque and instagram-worthy locations in India.
Then there are other hill stations of Chamba, Mandi, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, and Solan, which will blow your mind away too!
#5: Uttar Pradesh
Spirituality meets modernity in Uttar Pradesh, the northern Indian state situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges.
While the cities of Lucknow and Kanpur boast busy streets filled with the subtle blend of the old and new ...
... Noida and Ghaziabad will amaze you with their glamor and glitz.
Varanasi is the oldest continuously living settlement in the world; Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama ...
... Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna; and Vrindavan was where Lord Krishna grew up – Uttar Pradesh is just a never-ending quest.
The world-famous Taj Mahal in Agra can’t be missed!
The cities of Fatehpur Sikri, Jhansi, and Aligarh are also known for their Mughal heritage.
Also, the famous Sarnath Stupa and Deer Park where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, can’t be missed.
#6: Kerala
The small southern Indian state of Kerala has been nicknamed,” God’s Own Country”. With scenic backwaters, unparalleled natural beauty, rich history, and lip-smacking cuisine, Kerala simply enchants!
Rent a houseboat on the backwaters of Alleppey ...
... and drench yourself under the Athirapally Falls!
Head to Munnar to see the beautiful tea plantations and visit the awe-inspiring coffee plantations of Wayanad!
Appreciate the historical architecture of Fort Kochi ...
... relax on the Kovalam beach, or get to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary if you’re a nature buff!
Lastly, don’t miss to catch an aggressive Kathakali performance and to taste some delectable cuisine of the state!
#7: Punjab
The “land of five rivers” is also one of the most vibrant and colorful states in India. Punjab is for those fun-loving, care-free souls who love to eat, drink, and make merry.
First, head to Chandigarh, India’s most well-planned city and home to the famous Rock Gardens!
Then, see the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar! The ancient city of Jalandhar will also fascinate with its historical edifices and cheerful spirit.
Catch a traditional Bhangra performance if you can, and make sure to see the Beating the Retreat ceremony at the Wagah Border before leaving!
#8: West Bengal
With exciting history, grand colonial edifices, surreal landscapes, and mesmerizing folk culture, West Bengal in eastern India deserves to be on this list.
Kolkata, the state’s capital, is the city of many flavors.
From crowded gullies to stately mansions, from roadside eateries to high-end restaurants, from peaceful Dargahs to crowded temples, this city has it all!
Make way to the picturesque hill stations of Darjeeling and Kalimpong to spend a laid-back vacation.
For a slice of history, head to Santiniketan and Cooch Behar.
Love nature and wildlife? Get ready for a fun-filled adventure in the Sundarbans, a tiger and biosphere reserve in the delta region of the Bay of Bengal.