India with its diverse nature offers a getaway for every kind of vacationer. The beauty of India decorated with snow mountains in the north to the barren land in the east only amplifies it.
If you want to plan a vacation to get away from the concrete life of the suburbs, here is the list of destinations that you should try.Â
1. Ladakh
Nothing can beat the unparalleled beauty of Ladakh. Every biker dreams of a road trip to Leh, Ladakh with its scenic beauty along the way. The high altitude land of passes like Khardunga La, which is the highest motorable road in the world is surely a dream of every biker. The flora and fauna flourish in this region such as rare blue sheep, Himalayan brown bear, yak, and snow leopard. Embellished with many stunning valleys such as Zanskar Valley, Nubra valley, makes it is perfect for camping. Not to forget the dazzling lakes like Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, and others.
Top Attraction:
- Passes- Khardung La,
- Lakes- Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri lake, Juda-ka-Talab
- Valleys- Zanskar Valley, Nubra Valley
2. Andaman and Nicobar
 Situated in the expanse of the Bay of Bengal with more than 500 islands, Andaman and Nicobar are packed with beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in Asia, Radhanagar Beach, is situated on this island
With crystal clear waters and an array of water sports, this place is sought by couples and adventure lovers alike.
You can go Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Underwater Sea walking where you will find colorful sea habitats and beautiful coral reefs. Also camping under the bright sky and watching exotic birds with your private barbeque sounds like a vacation.Â
Top Attraction:
- Island- Havelock Island, Ross, Viper, Neil, Baratang, Barren Island, Long Island
- Beach- Radhanagar beach, Corbyn’s Beach
- Other- Cellular Jail, Rajiv Gandhi Water sports Complex
3. Kashmir
Kashmir, the heaven on Earth for a reason, is another beautiful spot for your vacation. Experience living in a boathouse or roam around the marvelous Mughal architectural garden in Srinagar. Daunting snow-clad mountains against the city is simply splendid to look at.
Gulmarg and Sonmarg are other attractions that give you the view of glaciers and snow. Betab Valley can be a peaceful picnic spot with green meadows and a river flowing.
There are various adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, skiing, and paragliding available. If you wish to shop for the famous Pashmina shawl head to the markets of Kashmir, along with it you can find wooden artifacts made of walnut, dry fruits, and spices.
 Top Attraction:
- Srinagar- Dal Lake, Boathouse, Mughal Gardens
- Gulmarg- Cable car, Trekking, and Skiing
- Sonmarg- river rafting
- Betab Valley
4. Sikkim
 Sikkim in the northwestern part of India is a perfect blend of hill stations with cultural beauty. The popular trek of Goecha La is in the mountains of Sikkim.
On this trek, you will come face to face with the Kanchenjunga mountain, considered to be the world’s third-highest peak with an altitude of 28,169 ft.
Along with trekking, you will find many other adventure sports like bungee jumping, mountain biking, Yak safari, and paragliding.
If you want to have a taste of Buddhist culture and their way of living along with the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas, Sikkim is the best spot.
There are various shrines and Monasteries that you can visit in the outlands of Sikkim.
 Top Attraction:
- Gangtok
- Yuksom
- Yumthang Valley
- Tsomgo lake
- Rumtek MonasteryÂ
5. Jaipur
Jaipur is a UNESCO recognized world heritage site due to its cultural and monumental importance. It represents the Rajputana culture of Rajasthani imperial. The colorful flavor of Jaipur includes many forts, museums, and temples.
An entire city painted in pink, known as ‘Pink City’ is surely a site to visit at least once in a lifetime.
In contrast to the image of Jaipur, it also offers high-end malls for shopping and hotels for accommodation.
Jaipur is a delight for every shopaholic person, shop for jewelry from the famous Johri Bazar,
Top Attraction:
- Fort- Amer, Jaigarh, and Nahargarh Fort
- Palace- City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Jantar Mantar
- Temple- Galta ji Temple, Birla Temple, Moti Dungri Temple
6. Jaisalmer
The city of Jaisalmer got its name as ‘Golden City’ after its dunes and castle covered in golden honey sandstone of the Thar desert.
Jaisalmer shines bright with its dynasty, heritage, and culture among the walls of history-rich Havelis. You can listen to the whispers of Arabian night’s tale in the desert or ride a camel through it.
The characteristic feature of this place is the structures built in yellow sandstone and hence justifying its name as a golden city.
Top Attraction:
- Fort/Haveli- Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, Badal Palace
- Desert- Sam Sand Dunes, Desert National Park, Kuldhara Village
- Other- Gadisar Lake, Bada Bagh, Jain Temple, Windmill Park
7. Rann of Kutch
The barren land of saltwater bodies extending up to the horizon is as nerve-racking as it is beautiful. Deemed to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world, the Rann of Kutch extends up to 7500 sq. km.
Rann of Kutch in Gujarat sharing its boundaries with Sindh in Pakistan is something different as a tourist destination.
It is famous for its festival, music and camel safari. You can stay in the traditional Bhungas of Hodka and Dhordo village.
Watch beautiful birds flying by in the Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary and don’t forget to get a taste of local cuisine.
Top Attraction:
- Kala Dungar, Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary
- Villages- Hodka, Dhordo
- Other- Bhuj, Mandvi
8. Aurangabad
Aurangabad primarily known for its UNESCO world heritage site of Ajanta and Ellora caves is yet another gem tucked away in the state of Maharashtra.
These caves depict a history that is almost 1400 years old.
The marvelous monuments and heritage of so many dynasties will give you a brief history of this place.
The three-day-long festival held in Ajanta Ellora every year showcases the history and culture of these caves and monuments.
Also, be sure to get yourself some traditional handwoven Himroo and Paithani silk from the markets of Aurangabad.
Top Attraction:
- Caves- Ajanta, Ellora, Aurangabad caves
- Monuments- Bibi ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort
- Temple- Grineshwar Temple
9. Goa
One of the favorite vacation spots among travel enthusiasts is the beaches of Goa. The beaches on the western coast of India make for a perfect getaway.
Calangute is well known for its nightlife on the beach, whereas if you are looking for solitude with crystal clear water then Agonda beach is perfect.
With a number of churches and beaches, it is a perfect mix of culture and party vibes. People come to Goa to enjoy its lively nighttime on beaches.
Top Attraction:
- Beach- Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Agonda, Arjuna, Arambol, Palolem
- Church- Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
- Fort- Aguada Fort, Chapora Fort
- Other- Dushsagar Waterfall, Dona Paula
10. KeralaÂ
Kerala in the south is famous for its picture-perfect Backwaters, massages, and cultural festivals. In the hill stations of Kerala, you will get a chance to see a scenic tea plantation among the ghats. In the “God’s Own Country” of Kerala, one is never disappointed with its culture and south Indian cuisines.
The terrain of Kerala ranges from high altitude hill stations of Munnar to calming backwaters of Alleppey.
You can experience many lively activities like trekking, bamboo rafting, wildlife safari, scuba diving, and Houseboat stay.
One of the top attractions includes Periyar National Park built around a beautiful lake.
Top Attraction:
- Backwaters: Alleppey, Kochi, Kumarakom, Kasargod
- Hillstation- Munnar, Thekkady
- Other- Periyar National Park, Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam, Kollam, Thrissur
