17 Best Places to go for Holidays in North India

As a travel destination, North India has much to offer. Right from the alluring hill stations to religious sites, the region has plentiful of options. Mighty peaks of Himalayas, lush valleys, ancient temples, sparkling lakes, historic monuments, beautiful waterfalls, places in North India promises a great holiday to every tourist.

Moreover, be it families, couples on honeymoon, adventure lovers or the people seeking weekend getaways, there is always an option to plan your holidays in North India.

In addition, the colorful festivals, rich cultural heritage, glorious past of and adventure pursuits add to the traveling experience. And we definitely can’t miss telling about the lip-smacking cuisines offered.

While Delhi allures you with its bustling markets, Varanasi takes you closer to spirituality and Agra makes you flip back the pages of the Mughal Era. North India is a must-visit for nature lovers, history buffs, foodies, adventure enthusiasts and photographers. With all this and more, North India becomes a great destination for every kind of traveler.

As you travel through the different destinations of North India, we can assure that you will end up exploring a lot! Here is a list of the Best places to go for holidays in north India.

1. Manali: A rejuvenating getaway

If you are looking forward to best destination for honeymoon or family vacation in Himachal Pradesh, then Manali is the best destination for you in north India. Manali allures tourist from all over the world to make them experience natural beauty at its best. The aesthetic beauty of Manali is absolutely mesmerizing.

Moreover, Manali has much to offer when it comes to adventure sports. River rafting, River crossing, Paragliding and trekking etc. are the popular activities to indulge in. In additions, the bike tour to Ladakh either starts from here or passes through the valley. Trekking in Manali is not one adventure but a life-changing experience.

Solang Valley is just few kilometers away from Manali city, one of the popular places to indulge in Snow activities. It is also well-known for its 300 m high ski lift. Camping in Solang is one of the popular summer activities to indulge in North India. In fact, here you can try your hands at paragliding. While, winters open up other exhilarating adventure sports.

Rohtang Pass is also major attraction near Manali. It is the only place in Himachal Pradesh where you can see snow round the year. So don’t miss chance to visit this place during your trip to Manali.

Delhi Manali Volvo Tour
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5 Nights / 6 daysShimla Calling Tour
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10 Nights / 11 days

2. Delhi: The Imperial City

Dotted with beautiful forts, fascinating mosques, revered shrines, alluring museums, enchanting gardens, crowded markets, happening clubs and shopping malls, Delhi is a bundle of fun, beauty, culture and adventure.

Formerly ruled by great dynasties, which is why it still reflects a royal picture of rich and glorious India. Delhi opens arms to people from across the globe to witness an assortment of wonders. One of the most populous city of India, Delhi also promises to offer a colorful combination of antiquity and modernity. In addition, Delhi makes you take back memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.

[Explore Tourist Attraction in Delhi]

3. Jaipur: The Pink City

Colorful festivals, magnificent forts, grand palaces, lip-smacking food, alluring shopping places, Jaipur is known for all this and much more. Jaipur makes you witness its rich culture and heritage through its splendid architecture.

Historical monuments of the Jaipur city feature a rare combination of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Moreover, the beauty does not end with the monuments, Jaipur is also known for its beautiful handicrafts and jewelry items. They feature exclusive artwork and intricate designs which talk of the great craftsmanship of the artisans.

Also, many of the palatial palaces of the city like Rambagh Palace, Samode Palace and Raj Palace have now been converted into luxury hotels which offer great accommodation in Jaipur.

[Checkout Tourist attraction in Jaipur]

4. Udaipur: The Royal Side of India

Also called the ‘Venice of the East,’ Udaipur in Rajasthan is considered one of the most romantic destinations of India. Home to a number of palaces, museums, galleries, lakes and temples, Udaipur allures tourists from all over the world. In fact, it is named among the most romantic places in the world.

The city is home to some of the most amazing structures of India.The enchanting boat rides amid the green surroundings of Udaipur take your heart away at once.

While Udaipur is best known for its rich history and culture, there is also more to it. The place is popular, not only as a tourist destination but also as a wedding destination. Udaipur is truly a shopper’s delight. There is much to shop; from leather bags, traditional handicrafts and miniature paintings.

[Click here to find Udaipur tour packages]

5. Agra: The City of Love

Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Taj Mahal is the most visited tourist destination in Agra. The Agra city offers a complete treat to history buffs and architecture lovers by some marvelous architecture like Taj mahal and Agra fort.

The historic monuments and tradition speak much about the Mughal rulers who left their imprints on the city. The historic monuments and architecture are the main tourist attraction of Agra as they take every visitor back to the time of the Mughal era.

The place is not only famous for its Mughal architecture and culture, but also for its lip- smacking food, beautiful gardens and shopping centers. Mehtab Bagh and Soami Bagh are the most beautiful gardens in Agra city which are known to offer great views during sunrise and sunset.

[ Explore Agra with our customize packages]

6. Varanasi: Go the divine way

Also known as Banaras and Kashi, Varanasi is considered one of the oldest cities in the world. The city is also one of the oldest and most crowded cities in the world. Varanasi is also known as Mukti Sthala, as it is believed that any person who is cremated here attains Moksha. People from all across the globe visit the city to take a dip in the Ganges River as it is believed to cleanse away all the sins of an individual. The holy dip makes you have a mesmerizing experience.

The star attraction of Varanasi rituals performed at the different Ghats. The main ritual is the evening aarti (prayers) which is performed on the main Ghat of Varanasi. And this is not all, the city is popular as a center of Yoga, music and classical dance.It is always a good idea to book Golden Triangle with Varanasi tour to raise the fun quotient.

7. Shimla: The Queen of Hills

If you are looking for a complete package for family destination in north India, then search no more. Shimla will be best hill station to go for holidays in north India, especially for being the charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh. The natural beauty and colonial structures of Shimla make it most visited destination of Himachal Pradesh.

Set at an elevation of 2202 m above sea level, Shimla hill station offers all what one requires for a great holiday, right from natural beauty to adventure activity.

Shimla welcomes you to walk through the tall deodar and pine trees as fresh breeze caress your face, enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayas, experience adventure activities in Shimla and explore the various attractions in and around Shimla.

[ Plan you holidays in Shimla with these cutomize packages ]

8. Mathura / Vrindavan: The city of Lord Krishna

Mathura Vrindavan holds a special importance in the heart of every devotee of Lord Krishna. These two destinations of Uttar Pradesh are considered main sites of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna was born in Mathura and he spent his entire childhood in Vrindavan. 

Mathura is one of the most ancient Hindu cities of India. People from all across the world visit the place to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna. The place holds a spiritual and magical atmosphere which sways away the heart of every visitor.

Vrindavan is also popular as well as Mathura. It is the place where Lord Krishna spent time with his beloved Radha, played pranks on the Gopis or milkmaids.

Festivals like Janmashtami, Holi and Radhashtami make the visit to Mathura Vrindavan especially wonderful beyond words. In fact, it would not be wrong to say that to enjoy festivals of colors one must enjoy Holi in Mathura Vrindavan.

9. Dharamshala: Close to nature

One of the beautiful hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is also known for being the seat of 14^th guru’s of Lamas, Dalai Lama. The beauty of the place lies in its soothing ambience and pleasant weather. The snow-capped Dhauladhar ranges in the backdrop add to the scenic beauty of Dharamshala hill. The place reflects the true Buddhist roots which take one back to the history of Buddhism. Dharamshala located in upper reaches of Kangra valley.

There is no dearth of tourist attractions in Dharamshala. Other than beautiful view points, the hill station also houses various monasteries, temples and learning centers. This makes Dharamshala, a major Buddhist site in Himachal Pradesh. Dharamshala is also known for its adventure sports like paragliding and trekking etc.

10. Bodhgaya: The Holy Place

One of the most revered places for Buddhists; Bodhgaya in Bihar is also a major tourist attraction in North India. This place is well-known for being the place of Buddha’s attainment of enlightenment. 

The town is home to the sacred Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree. It holds great historical importance in Buddhist culture.

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour
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13 Nights / 14 daysLand of Buddhist
9 Nights / 10 daysBuddhist Pilgrimage Package
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11. Rishikesh: The adventure and Yoga capital of India

A beautiful destination near Haridwar, Rishikesh is the birthplace of Yoga and meditation. This beautiful town is gateway to the Himalayas. Set on the bank of river Ganga, Rishikesh is also a popular destination for adventure sports in Uttarakhand.

There are so many things to enjoy like river rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and trekking etc. In addition, there are many ashrams which offer yoga courses for international and domestic tourists. This is why, Rishikesh is also known as the World Capital of Yoga.

12. Nainital: Lake District of India

Moving on with our list, Nainital is one of the most beautiful places in India. Known for its natural beauty, soothing weather in summer, beautiful view points, its among the favored hill stations in Uttarakhand. The star attraction is the beautiful Naini Lake.

Nainital proudly boasts its title of ‘the Lake District of India’ with its numerous lakes. There are a number of lakes in and around Nainital, each with an interesting story. Don’t miss to enjoy boating at the beautiful Naini Lake. The Mall Road, which overlooks the famous Naini Lake, is the star attraction of Nainital.

Nainital has attractions for every type of traveler. Be it a history buff, nature lover, adventure enthusiast or wildlife lover, no visitor can go disappointed from this beautiful hill station. The hill station also houses a number of shrines, which make it a popular religious site.

While you are here, visit the famous attractions like Jim Corbett National Park, Hanumangarhi, Guano Hills, Bhimtal, Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple and Naina Peak.

[Explore Nanital with our holiday packages ]

13. Haridwar: The Holy City  

A holy city near Delhi, Haridwar is considered one of the seven holiest places for Hindus. It is the place where the holy river Ganga enters into the Northern plains, after originating at Gaumukh, Gangotri. Tourist from across the globe visit Haridwar to take a dip in the holy water of Ganga River. It is believed that taking a dip in Holy River Ganga washes away one’s sins and helps in attaining salvation.

The beauty of the place lies in its holy and spiritual ambience. Sit by the beautiful river Ganga and enjoy peace as the breeze filled with holiness hits your face. The key attraction of the place is the Ganga Aarti on Har ki Paudi. The everyday prayer ritual is performed for the holy river Ganga.

14. Mussoorie: Natural beauty at its best

Set at an elevation of 1880 m, Mussoorie is well-known destination in Uttarakhand which offer spectacular views of Doon Valley and Shivalik Ranges. The beautiful hill station promises to sway your heart away with its beautiful waterfalls, revered temples, enchanting valleys and exotic wildlife.

Mussoorie has all what a traveler requires for a complete holiday. The place houses numerous tourist attractions which are so alluring, that they make you come back again and again. The place is also well-known for offering a variety of adventure activities like rock climbing, paragliding, rappelling, valley crossing, and Sky Bridges.

15. Srinagar: Paradise on Earth

The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is well-known for its serene lakes, beautiful houseboats and Mughal gardens. The snow-capped peaks, pleasing weather and greenery of Srinagar promise to leave every visitor mesmerized. Srinagar is home to a number of tourist attractions, which make it one of best place to go for holidays in North India. The most famous places to visit in Srinagar is lakes, gardens and some religious sites which allure tourists from all over the world. The gardens of Srinagar deserve a visit from every tourist.

The natural beauty of Srinagar is matchless and here you will go for Shikara ride and Houseboat on Dal Lake Srinagar. The scenic beauty of Srinagar is truly matchless. It is simply the perfect holiday destination in North India, especially the Kashmir Valley.

[Also checkout best places to visit in Srinagar]

16. Amritsar: the Golden City of Punjab

The holiest among pilgrimage sites in Sikhs, Amritsar is also the most visited destination in Punjab. The city is best known for its religious sites. The most famous Gurudwaras in Amritsar is Harmandir Sahib, which is well-known as the Golden Temple.

The shrine holds immense religious significance. People from all the world practicing their respective faiths are welcome here. The spirit of brotherhood is practiced here. As all can partake in the divine langar as well as can all lend their hands in service.

Amritsar is not only popular as a religious center, but also a historical site. It is here that one of the most important incidents during India’s freedom struggle took place. The Jallianwala Bagh till today speaks of the sacrifice of the martyrs who lost their lives in the tragic massacre.

While history and spiritual bliss is why Amtritsar is counted among the best places to visit in North India, there are other reasons. Food of Punjab is absolutely divine. And, the favorite city won’t disappoint in any way. The fresh buttermilk is a temptation to tongues as are the hot savory ‘parathas’ and the ‘naans’

17. Chandigarh: The City Beautiful

The first planned city of India, Chandigarh is definitely one of the best places to stay in India. But, if you cannot settle down, then you better plan your holiday. This beautiful city not only boats of its spectacular architecture, but also its colorful landscape. It is absolutely one of the top options when planning vacations at one of the tourist places in North India. It also among the best destinations for holidays near the Himalayas.

Chandigarh lures all by its beautiful gardens and museums. Some tourist attractions include Rock Garden, International Dolls Museum, Museum of Evolution of Life and more. But, that is not all. The city flaunts a high-on energy nightlife, amazing shopping delights and more.

Be here, if you wish to enjoy a mix of culture, modernity, history, delicious food and shopping etc. Chandigarh is truly one of the best holiday destinations in North India. Seek for yourself as the mind-boggling city offers a pleasant getaway. You can also choose to stop before you embark upon the charming hill stations in Himachal Pradesh.

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Tanya Malik

Thinking this world is a gold mine, Tanya Malik believes, the more you travel, the more you discover. Travel Writer one day, shutterbug the other, author in making, she lives for love, food and travel. Expect tons about scenic beauty and food from the write-ups of this nature lover and foodie.