23 Amazing Tourist Places To Visit In India If You Are Bored Of Beaches And Hills

Normally what strikes our minds at the onset of planning a vacation destination is either a beach or a hill station, notwithstanding how many times we have visited them. However, what if this year you would want to explore destinations which are neither of those?

Well, here’s a list of locations that you can head to and relish an altogether different experience:

1. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Surrounded by the Aravalli Range, this “City of Lakes” is a popular destination for tourists. With 7 lakes surrounding the city, Udaipur has many beautiful and historic structures that are a major attraction and is often called the most romantic city in India. The luxurious Lake Palace, breathtaking Jag Mandir, grand City Palace and the stunning Kesariyaji Temple are among the many architectures and palaces in this picturesque city that attract people from all over. The Sukhadia circle provides options for fast food joints, camel and horse rides, kids play zones and boat rides.

2. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarkhand

The oldest national park in India, Jim Corbett NP attracts a large number of wildlife tourists and adventure lovers from all over the country. The landscape of Corbett is etched by streams, river and ridges crisscrossing the terrain. Almost 73% of the park is covered by forest, and is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sambar Deers and the Asiatic Elephants along with over 550 species of fauna. Apart from night stay accommodations in the forest rest house or in the surrounding areas of the park, the Park also offers day visit/jungle safari facilities.

3. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Dubbed as the “The Golden City”, Jaisalmer lies in the heart of the Thar Desert and is a famous desert destination for national and international tourists. With the majestic Jaisalmer Fort (a World Heritage Site) crowning the city, many beautiful Jain temples adorn Jaisalmer, along with some of the oldest libraries and museums in India. Held in the month of February, the Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is one of the most famous cultural events in Rajashthan, showcasing Rajasthani folk songs, dance and music.

4. Hampi, Karnataka

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is located near Hospet town in Karnataka. This quaint town, lying amidst the ruins of the past, has been attracting tourists from far off. Once considered to be the second largest medieval era city after Beijing, Hampi was plundered by the Sultanate armies in the 16th century and has since remained in ruins. If you are a history buff, Hampi is worth visiting for its archaeological and architectural significance.

5. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

A World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is home to two-thirds of the great one horned rhinoceros. A paradise for animal lovers, the sanctuary has a high density of tigers along with elephants, Water Buffalo, Swamp Deer and various water and migratory birds. Guided tours by elephant or Jeep are available, while hiking is prohibited to avoid potential human-animal conflicts. Government lodges and private resorts are available outside the park.

6. Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the national park is a place of natural beauty and the world’s largest mangrove forest, bringing one close to nature. Kingdom of the Royal Bengal Tigers, Sunderbans National Park is also home to Salt Water Crocodile, leopards, wild boars, flying fox and number of reptiles and bird species. Boats are the only medium to travel in the park, which are operated by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation.

7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Considered to be the largest salt desert in the world, Rann of Kutch is a vast ocean of cultural beauty. The stunning and pristine beauty of this white desert observed in the full moon nights, transcends to an unforgettable and surreal experience. The annual Rann Utsav, is festival of color and vibrancy, celebrating the varied art forms and handicrafts, making it a must visit for all once in their lifetime.

8. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The largest Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha is a popular destination for tourists. Apart from the Royal Bengal Tiger, the main wildlife attractions are Barasingha (swamp deer), bison, leopards, wild dogs, Indian Gaur along with 300 species of birds. In fact, the picturesque and lush forests of Kanha National Park were the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s unforgettable classic ‘The Jungle Book’.

9. Keibul Lamjao National Park, Manipur

A visit to Keibul Lamjao National Park is worthy since it’s the only floating park in the world. Almost 75% of the park area is formed with a floating mass called ‘Phumids’, which are heterogenous masses of vegetation, soil and organic matter. The flagship species of the park is the endangered brow-antlered deer known as Sangai, which is also the state animal of Manipur. The serenity of the park is best enjoyed in a canoe or a boat, and one feels at peace with nature among the abundant flora and fauna.

10. Jodhpur, Rajasthan

The second largest city of Rajasthan, it is also often called the “Blue City” for its blue-painted houses. A popular tourist destination, Jodhpur has many palaces, forts and temples. One of the notable attractions of the city, the Mehrangarh Fort, is one of the largest and well-maintained forts in India, housing a museum and a number of ornate palaces, known for their intricate carvings. Other attractions include Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Clock Tower, Mandore Gardens and many more. Tourists are also in proximity to Fort Auwa, Kaylana Lake and Bhim Bhadak Cave. Of course, the famous Jodhpuri Morjari is always a special buy.

11. Hogenakkal Falls, Tamil Nadu

Colloquially known as the “Smoking Rocks” (‘hoge’ means smoke and ‘kal’ means rock in Kannada), the Hogenakkal Falls are often called the Niagra Falls of India. Located in the Dharampuri district in Tamil Nadu, these falls are nature’s marvel and a major tourist attraction. The rides in the bamboo made, single paddled coracles (round boats), make them even more unique and enjoyable.

12. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh

A small village in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota has India’s very own ‘Grand Canyon’. Pennar river, that cuts through the Erramala hills, carved this beautiful gorge over a long period of time, giving it a spectacular appearance. The 13th century Gandikota fort has an impressive history to itself and was once an invincible stronghold. Inside the fort are the two ancient temples dedicated to Madhava and Ranganatha. Though a lesser known heritage site, Gandikota is now gaining momentum in tourism circuit.

13. Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Renamed from Fatehnagar to Aurangabad, by the Mughal king Aurangzeb, the city draws a lot of international tourists. The land of Ajanta and Ellora caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Aurangabad is hub of many historical monuments. Bibi ka Maqbara (tomb of Aurangzeb’s first wife Rabia-ud-Daurani), Aurangzeb’s tomb, Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad caves, Siddhartha gardens and Zoo, Salim Ali lake and bird sanctuary, Panchakki etc. are some of the popular tourist spots in the town.

14. Puskhar, Rajasthan

Located in the Ajmer district, Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India. A prominent Hindu pilgrimage town, it is home to the only temple in the world, dedicated to Lord Brahma. The prime attraction of Pushkar is the Pushkar Lake, which is considered sacred just like the Mansarovar Lake in Tibet. The annual five days Pushkar fair is a vibrant and fun-filled affair, displaying local craft and culture, apart from being the largest cattle fair in the country.

15. Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh

Also known as ‘The Land of Tigers’, Bandhavgarh is the place you need to visit if you want to roam with the big cats. From the hunting ground of the erstwhile Maharajas to a renowned National Park today, Bandhavgarh has a rich historical past. The park has the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world and is home to 37 species of mammals and 250 species of birds. Bandhavgarh Fort, Jwalamukhi temple, Shesh Shaiya, Three Cave Point are some other popular spots you can visit.

16. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

One of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities, Varanasi is the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and Jainism. Situated on the banks of the river Ganga, this holy city witnesses crowds of visitors, both domestic and foreign. Take a dawn boat ride on the Ganges or a sunset stroll across the Ghats to soak in the exquisite atmosphere of faith and devotion. Mesmerizing evening aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat is an unique experience in its own. You can also visit nearby Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment.

17. Jaipur, Rajashthan

Dubbed as the ‘Pink City’ due to the color scheme of its buildings, Jaipur is a major tourist destination in India. This capital city of Rajasthan is renowned for its fascinating monuments, exquisite handloom garments and colorful markets, attracting domestic and international tourists. Jaipur is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Jantar Mantar and Amer Fort. Some other popular attractions in and around Jaipur are Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum, Birla Mandir and of course Choki Dhani.

18. Mysore, Karnataka

Situated on the foothills of Chamundi hills, Mysore is famous for its monumental edifices and palaces and is a very popular tourist destination in South India. Mysore Palace (also called Amba Vilas Palace) is one of the most visited monuments in India. Mysore Silk sarees, sandalwood soaps and carvings, and Mysore paintings are famous all around the world. The 10-day Dasara festival attracts people from all around the globe and is delightful affair.

19. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

This small town is famous all over the world for its stunning temples adorning erotic and sensuous carvings. Built between 950 AD and 1050 AD, these temples are brilliant example of Indian architecture along with progressive and artistic heritage of the time. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from these famous temples, Khajuraho is also home to the Pandav falls, Panna National Park and Raneh Falls.

20. Bikaner, Rajasthan

Aptly dubbed as “Camel Country”, Bikaner is a traveler’s delight. With its magnificent architecture, ancient forts and palaces and opulent havelis, the city depicts a bygone era of the Rajputs. Beautiful sand dunes and a Desert Safari would captivate and enthrall you at the same time. The city hosts the famous Camel Festival which draws tourists from all over the world. Other points of attractions are the Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, also called the Rats Temple and the Lalgarh Palace and Museum.

21. Kolad, Maharashtra

This small village in the Raigad district of Maharashtra is fast gaining traction as an adventure sports destination among tourists. Situated on the banks of the river Kundalika, Kolad is famous for white water rafting, with provisions for rappelling and kayaking, paragliding etc. Other popular attractions nearby are the Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls, Bhira Dam and Kuda Caves.

22. Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh

Located near Belum village in Andhra Pradesh, the Belum caves are the largest and longest cave system open to public in India. Formed during tens of thousands of years, by constant flow of underground water, the cave system is more than 3 kms in length. The caves are made of black limestones and the system has 16 different pathways. The caves have historical importance, too, as many Buddhist relics were discovered here, which have now been kept in a museum at Ananthapur.

23. Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan

Built by Sawai Madho Singh–I of Jaipur in 1765, the town’s history is famously associated with the Ranthambore Fort, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ranthambore National Park, one of the largest and most beautiful wildlife reserves, is just 7 kms from the town and is part of the Project Tiger. Padam Talo lake in the park attracts numerous birds like the Sarus crane, Fish Owl and Winged Jacana. Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History, Shilpgram and Trinetra Ganesh Temple are other popular tourist spots.

So plan your next trip to one of these vacation spots to discover and experience something different from the usual!

Also read- 18 Unexplored Destinations in India To Enjoy A Peaceful Holiday