Planning your first trip to India? You’re in for a wild, colorful, and unforgettable ride. With its rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty, India is like ten countries rolled into one. From snow-capped mountains to tropical beaches, bustling cities to peaceful spiritual retreats — India has it all.

But we get it — for a first-time traveler, the sheer scale and diversity of India can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the Top 10 must-visit destinations in India to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Delhi – The Perfect Starting Point

Delhi is where most international travelers land, and it’s the perfect place to start. The capital city is a blend of chaos and charm, with ancient history rubbing shoulders with modern life.

Don’t miss:

• The Red Fort
  
  
• Jama Masjid
  
  
• India Gate
  
  
• Chandni Chowk food walk
  
  
• Humayun’s Tomb
  
  
  
  

Travel Tip: Start your sightseeing early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

2. Agra – Home of the Timeless Taj Mahal

A short train or road trip from Delhi brings you to Agra, where the Taj Mahal — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — awaits. It’s even more stunning in person.

Also check out:

• Agra Fort
  
  
• Mehtab Bagh (great for Taj views at sunset)
  
  
  
  
• Fatehpur Sikri (a short drive from Agra)
  
  

Photo Tip: Visit the Taj at sunrise to catch that dreamy golden light.

3. Jaipur – The Pink City of Royalty

Jaipur is the third stop on the famous Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) and a visual treat for architecture lovers. It’s known for its grand forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars.

Highlights include:

• Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
  
  
  
  
• Amber Fort
  
  
• City Palace
  
  
• Johari Bazaar (perfect for souvenir shopping)
  
  

Pro Tip: Hire a local guide — they often share fascinating stories you won’t find in guidebooks.

4. Varanasi – The Spiritual Capital of India

If you want to experience the spiritual heart of India, head to Varanasi. Watching the Ganga Aarti at sunset and seeing pilgrims bathe in the Ganges is humbling and moving.

Must-do experiences:

• Boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise
  
  
• Walk through the old city lanes
  
  
• Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon
  
  
  
  

Note: Varanasi can be intense — come with an open mind and a respectful attitude.

5. Rishikesh – Yoga and River Adventures

Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is famous for yoga, spirituality, and adventure sports. It’s also known as the "Yoga Capital of the World."

Activities to enjoy:

• Yoga classes by the river
  
  
• White-water rafting on the Ganges
  
  
• Visit the Beatles Ashram
  
  
• Cross the iconic Laxman Jhula bridge
  
  
  
  

Chill Tip: Stay in a riverside hostel for peaceful vibes and fellow travelers.

6. Kerala – Backwaters and Beaches

On the southwest coast, Kerala offers a completely different India. Think lush green landscapes, slow-moving houseboats, and Ayurvedic massages.

Top spots in Kerala:

• Alleppey backwaters
  
  
• Munnar tea plantations
  
  
  
  
• Varkala and Kovalam beaches
  
  
• Fort Kochi (for a mix of colonial charm and art scene)
  
  

Local Flavor: Try a traditional Kerala thali (platter) on a banana leaf.

7. Goa – The Land of Sunsets and Susegad

If you’re craving beach time, Goa delivers. It’s a mix of Portuguese heritage, lively nightlife, and chill tropical vibes. Whether you want full moon parties or quiet beaches, Goa’s got a spot for you.

Goa essentials:

• Anjuna and Vagator (party scene)
  
  
• Palolem and Agonda (peaceful retreats)
  
  
  
  
• Old Goa churches
  
  
• Spice plantations
  
  

Party Tip: The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is perfect.

8. Udaipur – India’s Most Romantic City

Udaipur, with its lakes and white marble palaces, looks like something out of a fairytale. It’s quieter than other cities in Rajasthan and great for soaking in regal vibes.

Must-sees:

• City Palace
  
  
• Lake Pichola boat ride
  
  
• Jag Mandir
  
  
  
  
• Monsoon Palace
  
  

Bonus: Many Bollywood movies have been shot here — ask locals for the gossip!

9. Himachal Pradesh – Mountains, Monasteries Magic

For nature lovers and trekkers, Himachal Pradesh is a paradise. Towns like Manali, Dharamshala, and Spiti Valley offer dramatic landscapes and a glimpse into Tibetan culture.

Things to do:

• Hike to Triund
  
  
  
  
• Explore Spiti’s ancient monasteries
  
  
• Chill in cafés in Old Manali
  
  
• Visit the Dalai Lama’s temple in McLeod Ganj
  
  

Packing Tip: Bring layers — the weather can change quickly in the mountains.

10. Hampi – Ruins, Rocks Raw Beauty

A bit off the usual tourist path, Hampi in Karnataka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that wows with surreal landscapes and ancient temples.

Top experiences:

• Explore the Vijayanagara ruins
  
  
• Climb Matanga Hill for sunrise
  
  
  
  
• Cross the river to Hippie Island for chill vibes
  
  

Why go: It’s historical, magical, and still relatively crowd-free.

Tips for a Smooth Indian Travel Experience

• Pack light but smart: Layers, sunscreen, and power adapters are must-haves.
  
  
• Stay hydrated — always carry bottled or filtered water.
  
  
• Use local SIMs or eSIMs for data access (easy to get at airports).
  
  
• Respect local customs — especially in temples and rural areas.
  
  
• Use trains and domestic flights for long distances; they’re affordable and efficient.
  
  

Required Documents for an Indian eVisa

Make sure you have the required documents for Indian e-visa to prevent delays:

• scanned copy of the bio page of the passport.
• To obtain your e-visa, you must have a working email address.
• Method of payment for online fee processing.
• at least two blank pages in your passport.
• a recent, properly formatted passport-sized photo.

A hassle-free application is ensured by having these on hand.

FAQs About Indian e-Visa for First-Time Visitors

Q: Do I need a visa to enter India?

Yes, most foreign nationals need a visa. Fortunately, India offers a convenient e-Visa for tourism, available online.

Q: How do I apply for an Indian e-Visa?

Fill in the application, upload a photo and passport scan, and pay the fee.

Q: How long does the e-Visa take to process?

Usually 3-5 business days, but apply at least a week before your trip, just in case.

Q: How long is the e-Visa valid?

Tourist e-Visas are typically valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years, depending on what you choose.

Q: Can I enter India through any airport with the e-Visa?

No, only through designated airports and seaports (listed on the e-Visa site). Be sure to double-check before booking flights.

Final Thoughts

India isn’t just a country—it’s an experience. It will challenge you, delight you, surprise you, and change the way you see the world. As a first-time traveler, starting with these top 10 must-visit destinations of India will give you a rich, well-rounded taste of what this amazing land has to offer.

So grab that backpack, get your e-Visa sorted, and dive into the adventure. India is waiting — and it’s unlike anywhere else on Earth.