Top 10 tourist cities to visit in India

Sentinel Digital Desk

Agra

Agra, located in Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its Taj Mahal, a 17th-century mausoleum, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. Located 230 km southeast of Delhi and 330 km west of Lucknow, Agra is a significant city in the Indian state, known for its exceptional Mughal architecture.

Varanasi

Varanasi, a 11th-century B.C. city in Uttar Pradesh, is the spiritual capital of India and attracts Hindu pilgrims who bathe in Ganges River's sacred waters and perform funeral rites. The city has 2,000 temples, including the "Golden Temple" Kashi Vishwanath, dedicated to Shiva. Hindus believe that dying on Varanasi land leads to salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan, is known as the Blue City due to its iconic blue architecture, including forts, palaces, temples, havelis, and houses. The 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, a former palace now a museum, showcases weapons, paintings, and royal palanquins. The fort overlooks the city's walled city.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh, located in Uttarakhand, India, is a renowned center for yoga and meditation, situated in the Himalayan foothills near the holy Ganges River. The city is home to numerous temples and ashrams, including Swarg Ashram, a traffic-free, alcohol-free, and vegetarian enclave upstream from Rishikesh town. The river is considered holy, making Rishikesh a popular destination for spiritual growth.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known for its architectural marvels, including the Old City, or "Pink City," founded by the royal family in 1727. The city's colonnaded City Palace complex, featuring gardens, courtyards, and museums, is a royal residence. The city's size and form, along with its unique color scheme, make it a popular destination for brick-and-mortar enthusiasts.

Chennai

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a culturally rich city with a rich history dating back to 1644. Its Fort St. George, a 1644 British military garrison, and religious sites like Kapaleeshwarar Temple and St. Mary's Anglican church are notable attractions. Chennai is a popular tourist destination in India.

Kolkata

Kolkata, India's West Bengal state capital, is known for its grand colonial architecture, art galleries, and cultural festivals. It was India's capital under the British Raj from 1773-1911. The city is also home to Mother House, the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa.

Mumbai

Mumbai, India's largest city, is known for its financial center and Bollywood film industry. Its iconic Gateway of India stone arch, built by the British Raj in 1924, is a must-see attraction. The city also houses ancient cave temples on Elephanta Island.

New Delhi

New Delhi, India's capital, is the seat of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Sansad Bhavan, and Supreme Court. Its rich culture, history, authentic food, and fashion, along with its political responsibilities, have made it a global tourist destination.

Tawang

Tawang, a town in Arunachal Pradesh, is the administrative headquarter of the Tawang district. Previously the Tawang Tract, it is now part of the Tawang district and West Kameng district. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and rich cultural heritage, Tawang is a must-visit destination for travelers.