From the mighty Himalayas to the sprawling Thar Desert, from the backwaters of Kerala to the colourful streets of Delhi, India is a land of bountiful contrasts. The mesmerising landscapes and serenity promise to deliver a feeling full of solace and happiness. Check out these 7 destinations which top the list of foreigners and must not be left unexplored by the natives.
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
With the most scenic landscapes and tranquil environs, Kasol has to top the list. The ratio of the Israeli population is so high that this hamlet is sometimes referred to as “Mini Israel”. There are a number of trekking trails, places for nature walks and cafes to spend some quality time. Visit this destination to experience an altogether different environment. After all, Kasol is all about creams and cafes. 😉
Best time to Visit: March to October
Backpackers stay in Kasol: Cirrus Somewhere in Parvati Valley
Must have exp: Trekking to Kheerganga
Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Far away from the crowded streets is the beautiful hamlet of Munsiyari. Tucked in the Himalayas, this destination offers splendid vistas of the snow-capped mountains. Foreigners visit this destination to adore the beauty of nature and spend some peaceful time. Also, there are many homestays where you can stay and savour some lip-smacking Kumaoni delicacies.
Best time to Visit: March, April, May, October, November
Backpackers stay in Munsiyari: Munsiyari Homestay
Must have exp: Nature Walk in and around Munsiyari
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the beautiful Kangra Valley, Dharamshala must not be left unexplored. The flawless beauty of this pristine destination remains unmatched and untainted. It has a large Tibetan population and is also known as Little Lhasa as it is the centre of the Tibetan government in exile. Enjoy sightseeing or indulge in meditation at the Tushita Meditation Centre.
Best time to Visit: March to July
Backpackers stay in Dharamshala: Youth Hostel Dharamshala
Must have exp: the serene monasteries
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Right from the mind-blowing landscapes to the man-made marvels like Laxman Jhula, and from adrenaline pumping activities like rafting, bungee jumping to serene banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh has a lot to offer. Popularly known as the “yoga capital of the world”, it is flocked by thousands of foreigners who come here to learn yoga and spend some peaceful time in the ashrams.The Beatles visited Rishikesh in the late 1960s, which further added to its popularity.
Best time to Visit: October to March
Backpackers stay in Rishikesh: Zostel Rishikesh
Must have exp: River Rafting/Camping
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities and the cultural capital of the world. This city is most famous for three things — Ganges, ghats and temples. The liveliness in the environment, beautifully decorated temples, the high-spirited locals and peaceful ghats entice foreigners to visit this destination. There are many places to visit and number of things to do in Varanasi for people of all interests.
Best time to Visit: November to February
Backpackers stay in Varanasi: Stops Hostel Varanasi
Must have exp: Watching the Ganga aarti at ghats during night
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Less visited by the locals and more by the foreigners, Agra contributes a lot towards the tourism industry of the country. Taj Mahal — one of the seven wonders of the world is not the stand-alone attraction of the city. There are many fascinating tombs, mausoleums and a sprawling fort that are a part of the legacy of the Mughal Empire here.
Best time to Visit: October to March
Backpackers stay in Agra: Zostel Agra
Must Have Exp: Viewing Taj Mahal on a full moon night
Kovalam, Kerala
Kovalam, located in “God’s own country”, is one of the most beautiful beach destinations across the world. The scenic beauty and the peaceful environs of this pristine land attract visitors from all parts of the world. This place is also a sheer delight for those who love seafood. Enjoy a dip in the clean waters of the sea, indulge in sunbathing and walk bare feet on the sandy beaches for a lifetime experience.
Best time to Visit: October to March
Backpackers stay in Kovalam: Kovalam Backpackers Hostel
Must Have Exp: A stay in the houseboats
If you haven’t explored any of the above-mentioned destinations and are planning an international vacation, we would like to suggest — let’s admire the beauty of our homeland first.
Let’s explore our Incredible India!!
