North India Holiday Destinations
North India is a pure delight to mountain lovers and adventure enthusiasts. There are a plenty of picturesque, popular, and off-the-wall hill stations nestled in the Himalayas that make for beautiful holiday destinations. And all of them are so spellbinding that it gets tough to choose one from the list of gorgeous places to visit in north India.To sort this confusion of where to go and what to see, here’s an elaborate compilation of northern India’s best tourist destinations. Pick your dream destination and plan your most amazing Elite Holidays
Hill Stations In North India
1. Kashmir Circuit- Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and Srinagar
Kashmir is a heaven on Earth. Known for its surreal topography, stunning views, colourful culture, and cheerful people, Kashmir is definitely one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in north India. The stunning Dal Lake in Srinagar, the gorgeous valleys of Sonmarg, the thrilling adventures of skiing at Gulmarg, and the perfect serenity of Pahalgam make a trip to Kashmir replete with happiness.
Key attractions: Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Mughal Garden, Betab Valley, Strawberry Field, and Apharwat Peak
How to reach: Srinagar Airport is just 14 km from the main city and Udhampur (130 km from Srinagar) is the nearest railways station.
Must Read: 10 Unbelievably Beautiful Places To Visit In Kashmir
2. Dharamshala and Mcleodganj- Tibetan charm
Dharamshala is a small and quaint hill station that offers mesmerizing views of Dhauladhar Ranges, sparkling Dal Lake, plush green deodar forests, and the honored residence of His Holiness – The Dalai Lama. That and more make it one of the best places to visit in February in North India.
Mcleodganj is located 9 km upslope from Dharamshala and tops the list of places to see in north India. It is known for some really cool and quaint cafes and exhilarating adventure. The two destinations are among the best places to visit in North India that, together, form an integral part of the tour packages to Himachal.
Key attractions: Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dal Lake, Naddi Village, Kangra Fort, and Bhagsunath
How to reach: Gaggal Airport (18 km from Mcleodganj) is the nearest airport. Pathankot Junction (90 km from Mcleodganj) is the nearest railway head. Volvos and non-AC buses by Himachal Roadways ply between these destinations and Delhi.
3. Dalhousie- A peaceful getaway
Dalhousie is a picturesque hill station, nestled in the Himalayas. One of the most invigorating tourist places in north India, it is characterized by lofty mountains, sparkling river, luxuriant valleys, and colonial houses. Its serenity makes it a perfect choice for honeymooners, solo travelers, and photographers.
Key attractions: Chamba, Khajjiar, Dainkund Peak, Kalatop Wild Reserve, Panchpula, and St. Francis Catholic Church
How to reach: Pathankot is the nearest airport and railway connection, located 80 km away
Must Read: Places to see in Dalhousie
4. Shimla- The erstwhile summer capital of British India
With the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding and super cosy climate, Shimla is one of the most popular places to visit in north India. Snow-capped mountains, plush valleys, and bustling mall road has made Shimla a favourite choice for all.
Key attractions: Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Annandale, Jakhoo Hill, Summer Hill, and Scandal Point
How to reach: The nearest airport, Jubbarhatti, is located 23 km from the main city. The nearest railhead is Kalka, which is connected by a toy train to Shimla station.
5. Kullu and Manali- Hub of adventure
Kullu and Manali are the twin tourist places in north India, popular for their luxuriant greenery, surreal topography, invigorating climate, and super thrilling adventure sports. Kullu, located at a distance of 40 km from Manali, is a stunning valley by the Beas whereas Manali is an amazing retreat, immensely popular especially among adventure freaks and honeymoon couples.
Key attractions: Hadimba Temple, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa, and Vashisht Hot Water Springs
How to reach: Nearest airport and railhead are at Chandigarh, approximately 250 km away.
6. Nainital- A mesmerizing hill station
Nainital is a mesmerising hill station and one of the most popular places to see in north India. This charming destination has developed around a splendid lake. Boating, trekking, and shopping at the Tibetan market of Mall Road are some of the must-do things here.
Key attractions: Naini Lake, Naina Peak, Nainital Zoo, Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, Raj Bhavan, and Naina Devi Temple
How to reach: The nearest railway station is at Kathgodam, 34 km from Nainital. It takes close to 8 hours to reach there from Delhi. Nainital does not have any direct air access.
Beautiful Places To Visit In Nainital For An Incredible Vacation
7. Dehradun- Treat for nature lovers
Dehradun is among the best famous holiday destinations in north India for families as well as couples. The popular hill retreat is known for its awesome surrounding beauty, Doon School, Forest Research Institute, and Indian Military Academy. But that’s not all. There are myriad other North India tour places hidden in its hilly terrains and valleys.
Key attractions: Shikhar Fall, Guchhupani, Khalanga War Memorial, and Sahastradhara
How to reach: Dehradun has its own railway station and an airport that goes by the name of Jolly Grant.
8. Mussoorie- A popular tourist destination
Mussoorie is one of the most visited hill stations of north India, snuggled at the Himalayas. Scenic waterfalls and lofty ranges form the backdrop for some of the most amazing things to do in Mussoorie, such as boating, skating, and horse riding.
Key attractions: Kempty Falls, Mussoorie Lake, Jharipani Falls, Camelback Road, and Benog Sanctuary.
How to reach: Jolly Grant at Dehradun (54 km away) is the closest airport while Dehradun (33 km away) is the nearest railway connect.
Must Read: 17 Amazing Places To See In Mussoorie
Religious Places In North India
9. Varanasi- Peace seeker’s haven
Varanasi – the religious hub, is a perfect place to unwind, and rejuvenate the mind and the soul. With photogenic ghats of The Ganges, narrow lanes, century old temples, and the mesmerising evening aarti, Varanasi is definitely in every traveler’s bucket list.
Key attractions: Dashashwamedh Ghat and Vishwanath Temple
How to reach: Varanasi has its own railway station and airport.
10. Allahabad- UP’s pride
Allahabad is known for ‘Sangam’ – the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, & Saraswati – and is also counted as one of the sacred places to visit in north India. Besides, there is a range of tourist attractions that place it on the list of must visit places in North India.
Key attractions: Khusro Bagh, Triveni Sangam, and Swaraj Bhavan
How to reach: Allahabad has its own railway station and airport.
11. Haridwar and Rishikesh- Beautiful twin cities
Haridwar is another spiritual destination of north India. Ganga is said to leave the Himalayas here. The Ganga aarti and the religious celebrations keep the place crowded throughout the year.
Rishikesh is the yoga capital of India, located 20 km upslope from Haridwar. There are numerous places to see in Rishikesh and the city is also known internationally for adventure sports like river rafting and bungee jumping.
Key attractions: Har ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple Rajaji National Park, River Rafting, Bungee Jumping, and Yoga sessions
How to reach: The nearest airport to both the places is Jolly Grant in Dehradun whereas the nearest railway station to Rishikesh is at Haridwar.
12. Mathura and Vrindavan- Catch some soul delight
Mathura is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and one of the best North India tour places. Vrindavan, on the other hand, is where he spent his childhood and youth. Hence, both are very significant religious places to visit in north India for the Hindus. The distance between Mathura and Vrindavan is just about 12 km and both these places are known for their heritage temples.
Key attractions: Krishna Janma Bhoomi, Dwarkadhish Temple, Bankey Bihari Temple, Keshi Ghat, and the holi celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan.
How to reach: Both Mathura and Vrindavan can be easily accessed from Delhi by road or in a local train. However, the nearest airport is in Delhi or Agra.
Places For Sightseeing In North India
13. Amritsar- A must visit city
Amritsar is a fascinating place and definitely finds its place among the best places to visit in north India. The aura of Golden Temple, amazing delicacies, and cheerful people pull tourists throughout the year.
Key attractions: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border
How to reach: Amritsar has its own airport and railway station.
14. Chandigarh- Gateway to the hills
Chandigarh is popular amongst all. The city’s charming cityscape, fascinating parks, and amazing museums have, for years, attracted tourists from all over. And being the gateway to the hills of Himachal, it is one of the most preferred tourist places in north India.
Key attractions: Pinjore Gardens, Rock Garden, International Doll Museum, Chattbir Zoo, Rose Garden, and Cactus Garden
How to reach: Chandigarh has an airport as well as a railway station.
15. Agra- One of the most romantic destinations in India
Agra is one of the awesome tourist destinations in north India. Easily accessible from Delhi by amazing Taj Expressway, this globally famous place houses the Taj Mahal – one of the wonders of the world.
Key attractions: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula, and Fatehpur Sikri
How to reach: Agra has a railhead and Delhi Airport is closest to this place.
16. Delhi- Political, cultural and food capital of India
If you take Delhi as busy, commercial, and political destination, you are grossly mistaken. This lovely capital boasts of its amazing tourist spots. These include monuments, museums, temples, forts, bustling markets, and super cool eatouts in Delhi that cannot be missed at any cost. Delhi is, no doubt, among the best places to visit in February in North India.
Key attractions: Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, Lodhi Garden, Humayun’s Tomb, India gate, and Rashtrapati Bhavan
How to reach: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi connects to all major international cities. Hazrat Nizamuddin, Sarai Rohilla, New Delhi and Old Delhi railway stations of the capital have trains for almost all Indian cities.
Offbeat Places To Visit In North India
17. Lansdowne- A slice of mountain life
Lansdowne is a quaint and serene hill station that tops the list of the not so popular destinations of north India. But if you are looking for the best places to visit in north India with friends, this offbeat destination is a perfect choice. You can go for a trek, take a stroll, chill out, or laze around – the choice is yours.
Key attractions: St Mary Church, Tip n Top, Bhulla Lake, and War Memorial
How to reach: Kotdwar, located at 1-hour driving distance is the closest railway station.
18. Kasol- Touristy beauty
Kasol is a fantastic and upcoming weekend retreat. One of the most peaceful tourist places in north India, the destination is a delightful place for backpackers, photography buffs, and solo travelers. This charming and sweet little village of Kullu by the River Parvati has a lot to offer – complete peace, mental rejuvenation, and freshness.
Key attractions: Trekking, camping, hiking, and trying sumptuous Israeli cuisine
How to reach: It is 42 km from Bhuntar Airport (Kullu). Regular buses and cabs ply from Bhuntar to Kasol.
19. Ranikhet- Relax away the entire vacation
Ranikhet boasts of its plush green surroundings, heritage temples, and classic churches. With nothing much to do, this forested hilly retreat is a perfect place for romantic couples who are looking for a wonderful honeymoon away from urban noises.
Key attractions: Visit the temples, trek, and stroll to reveal the nature’s splendour
How to reach: Kathgodam is the closest railhead, located 80 km away.
20. Spiti- Pristine land for true wanderers
Endowed with picturesque villages, gorgeous mountains, and panoramic glacier, Spiti Valley offers awesome and mind-blowing views and is surely one of the most unconventional tourist destinations in north India. The vibrant monasteries add to the charm of the place that is already well known for offering ultimate spiritual serenity.
Key attractions: Bara Shigri Glacier, Tabo Monastery, and Ki Monastery
How to reach: Kullu Airport is 85 km and Shimla railway station (toy train) is 428 km from Spiti.
21. Ladakh – Picture-perfect landscapes
How can we miss out this beauty when talking about North India tourism! Replete with the most wondrous of natural sights, topography, a vivid culture, colourful monasteries, and smiling people, Ladakh is a must visit on every wanderer’s bucket list. From the striking blue of Pangong Lake to the eye-catching gold and grey of Nubra Valley, Ladakh hides more beauty that one can imagine!
Key attractions: Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, Zanskar Liver, Stakna Monastery, 3 Idiots School, Magnetic Hill
How to reach: The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is connected with cities like Delhi, Srinagar, and Jammu. One can also drive down to Leh via the Delhi-Manali-Kargil-Leh route.
22. Lucknow – The City Of Nawabs
Key attractions: Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, The Residency, and more
How to reach: Lucknow Airport & Lucknow Railway Station connected to major Indian cities | Strong road networks with highways connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Kanpur, Jaipur
