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Tourism in India by state
Tourism in India From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Tourism plays a growing role in India’s economy.[1] In 2016, the World Travel & Tourism Council estimated that tourism generated a total of ₹14.02 lakh crore (US$170 billion) in revenue, accounting for 9.6% of the nation's GDP. Currently, tourism supports an estimated 40.343 million jobs, accounting for 9.3% of India’s total employment. According to several projections, India's tourism sector is expected to grow at an annual rate of 6.8%, which means it will have generated ₹28.49 lakh crore (US$340 billion) by 2027, accounting for 10% of India's GDP.[2]
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States and Union territories of India with their names.
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Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, first settled around 26,000 years ago, form an archipelago of 572 tropical islands, of which only 37 are inhabited.[3][4] Tourism plays a major economic role in the islands. According to official estimates, tourist arrivals tripled from 130,000 in 2016 to 430,000 in 2017.[5]
The islands straddle the fault line between the Indo-Australian Plate and the Sunda Plate, and their topography reflects millions of years of volcanism and tectonics. Barren Island hosts South Asia’s only active volcano, which typically erupts every one to two years; its most recent eruption occurred in 2024.[6]
The most notable historical site is the Cellular Jail in Port Blair. Built in 1906 during the British Raj, it became notorious for its harsh conditions and use as a political prison for members of India’s independence movement. The former prison complex now serves as a museum and memorial.
Coral reef near Jolly Buoy Island
Beach on Havelock Island
Natural bridge in Neil Island
The Cellular Jail in Port Blair
Landing on Ross Island
Nicobar Island from offshore
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Andhra Pradesh
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Tourism features numerous Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage destinations along with beaches, caves, hill stations, and wildlife sites.
Pilgrimage sites - Venkateswara Temple – In the hills near Tirumala, the temple is a major Vaishnavite pilgrimage centre dedicated to Venkateswara. - Kanaka Durga Temple – A temple of the Goddess Durga on Indrakeeladri Hill in Vijayawada on the Krishna River; major festivities include Dussehra and Theppotsavam.[7] - Mallikarjuna Temple – At Srisailam in the Nallamala Hills, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva.[8] - Kodandarama Temple – A 16th‑century temple in Vontimitta, Kadapa district, dedicated to Rama. - Pancharama Kshetras – Five ancient Shiva temples: Amararama (Amaravathi), Draksharama, Somarama (Bhimavaram), Ksheerarama (Palakollu), and Kumararama (Samalkota). - Srikalahasteeswara Temple – In Srikalahasti, Chittoor district, identified with the Panchabhoota manifestation of Vayu (air). - Shakti Peethas – The shrines at Draksharamam, Pithapuram, and Srisailam.
Buddhist centres - Amaravathi – Guntur district - Nagarjunakonda – Guntur district - Bhattiprolu – Guntur district - Ghantasala – Krishna district - Sankaram – Visakhapatnam district - Bavikonda – Visakhapatnam district - Thotlakonda – Visakhapatnam district - Ramatheertham – Vizianagaram district - Salihundam – Srikakulam district - Lingapalem – West Godavari district Other sites include Pavurallakonda, Chandavaram, Guntupalli, Adurru, Kummarilova, Kotturu Dhanadibbalu, Karukonda, Kapavaram, and Nandalu.
Places of interest - Araku Valley – Hill station near Visakhapatnam known for coffee plantations. - Undavalli Caves – A multi‑storey monolithic cave complex, largely dated to the early centuries CE. - Gandikota Fort – On the Penna River, including the Madhavaraya and Ranganatha temples. - Thimmamma Marrimanu – A sprawling banyan tree noted for its extensive canopy. - Prakasam Barrage – A road cum rail bridge across the Krishna River at Vijayawada. - Kolleru Lake – A large freshwater lake between Krishna and West Godavari districts. - Pulicat Lake – A brackish lagoon on the Andhra Pradesh–Tamil Nadu border along the Bay of Bengal; much of it forms the Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary. - Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary – A bird sanctuary near Guntur visited by thousands of migratory birds seasonally. - Ethipothala Falls – A cascade on the Chandravanka stream near Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. - Borra Caves – A cave system in the Ananthagiri Hills of the Eastern Ghats near Visakhapatnam, known for stalactite and stalagmite formations. - Belum Caves – A cave system in Kurnool district with long passages, chambers, and freshwater galleries. - Indira Gandhi Zoological Park – A zoo in the reserve forests of Visakhapatnam district. - Sri Venkateswara National Park – A national park in the Tirumala hills, Chittoor district, with waterfalls including Talakona. - Horsley Hills – A hill area near Madanapalle in Chittoor district. - Suryalanka Beach – A seaside resort area near Bapatla in Guntur district. - Rajahmundry – A city on the Godavari River known for cultural institutions and landmarks including Godavari Bridge, ISKCON Temple, and Pushkar ghats. - Visakhapatnam – A major coastal city with attractions such as the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, Yarada Beach, and VUDA Park.
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Arunachal Pradesh
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According to Puranic and epic traditions, the region is associated with episodes in the Kalika Purana and the Mahabharata, including sites linked to Parashurama, Vyasa, Bhishmaka, and Krishna and Rukmini; these associations are matters of legend and require citations.[citation needed]
Places of worship and pilgrimage include Parashurama Kund and the 17th‑century Tawang Monastery.[9] Archaeological and heritage sites include Malinithan and Ita Fort in Itanagar. Lakes include Ganga Lake (Geker Sinying) near Itanagar and lakes around Sela Pass.[10] The state offers opportunities for angling, boating, rafting, trekking, and hiking, and has multiple wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
Assam
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Assam is a state in Northeast India and serves as a gateway to the other Seven Sister States. It has several protected areas, including Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros, Manas National Park, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Nameri National Park, and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary; Kaziranga and Manas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The state also includes the large river island Majuli, known for its Vaishnavite Sattras, historic Sivasagar with monuments of the Ahom kingdom, the city of Tezpur, and tea estates and rubber plantations dating to the British Raj.[11]
Other sites include Madan Kamdev, a temple complex noted for sculptural remains about 30 km from Guwahati; nearby is Gopeswar Mandir at Deuduar.[citation needed] Basudev Than is a satra more than 300 years old.[citation needed]
Assam’s cultural heritage includes the period of the Ahom kingdom, which governed the region for centuries before British rule. Notable features include the Brahmaputra River, the bird-death phenomenon reported at Jatinga, and temples such as the Kamakhya Temple, associated with Tantra. Gurdwara Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur (Damdama Sahib) is located in Dhubri on the Brahmaputra. Guwahati, the state’s largest city, features markets, temples, and nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
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Bihar
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Bihar is among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited regions, with human settlement dating back over 3,000 years.[12] It is associated with figures such as Gautama Buddha, Mahavira, Ashoka, Chandragupta Maurya, and Aryabhata.[13]
In 2024, Bihar recorded 65 million domestic and 700,000 foreign tourist arrivals.[14]
Attractions - Patna – The state capital, known for its historical sites and riverfront. - Gaya – The site of Bodh Gaya, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree at the Mahabodhi Temple; also the location of the Vishnupad Temple and the Mangla Gauri Temple[citation needed]. - Muzaffarpur – Known for lychee cultivation and local temples.[citation needed] - Darbhanga – Historic city with palaces and the Kali Mandir. - Nalanda – Site of the ancient Nalanda University. - Kesariya – Location of the Kesariya Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas. - Sasaram – Contains the tomb of Sher Shah Suri. - Sonepur Cattle Fair – Asia’s largest cattle fair, held annually in Sonepur. - Takht Sri Patna Sahib – A Sikh shrine at the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh. - Munger – Known for the Bihar School of Yoga and Shakti Peethas. - Vaishali – Birthplace of Mahavira. - Champapuri – A Jain pilgrimage site associated with Tirthankara Vasupujya[citation needed]. - Rajgir – An ancient city sacred to Buddhism and Jainism, near the Son Bhandar Caves. - Pawapuri – Site of Mahavira’s cremation and the Jal Mandir.[citation needed]
For further details, see List of tourist attractions in Bihar.
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Chandigarh
Chandigarh is a city and union territory at the foothills of the Himalayas and serves as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana.[15] Nicknamed the “City Beautiful,” it is among India’s earliest planned cities and was designed by Swiss‑French architect Le Corbusier.[16] Major attractions include Nek Chand Rock Garden, Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, Sukhna Lake, the Open Hand Monument, and the Capitol Complex, the last of which is part of the World Heritage property “The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier.”[17] In 2025, Chandigarh was adjudged the second cleanest city in its population category in the Swachh Survekshan rankings by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.[18]
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Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh became a state on 1 November 2000.[19] According to the India State of Forest Report 2023, forests cover about 44.2% of the state’s area; the report is published biennially by the Forest Survey of India under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.[20][21] The state features ancient monuments, temples, Buddhist sites, waterfalls, caves, rock paintings, hill plateaus, and protected forests.
Prominent attractions include Chitrakote Falls on the Indravati River; Kotumsar Cave; the rock-cut caves at Ramgarh (Sitabenga and Jogimara); Bhoramdeo Temple; Arang temples; Sirpur; Rajim; Ratanpur; and Malhar.[22][23]
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Delhi
Delhi is India’s national capital and a union territory.[24] Old Delhi has long served as a historic seat of power, while New Delhi was laid out in the early 20th century by architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker.[25] New Delhi is noted for axial planning, broad boulevards, and monumental government buildings such as Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Parliament House.[26]
Prominent landmarks include Qutb Minar, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, and the Lotus Temple, alongside museums, parks, and markets across the city.[27]
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Goa
A former Portuguese colony, Goa is a coastal state known for its beaches, historic churches and temples, forts, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, markets, and water-based recreation. The Churches and Convents of Goa in Old Goa—covering sites such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral—are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.[28] Other noted attractions include Shri Mangeshi Temple, Anjuna Beach, Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, and Dudhsagar Falls.
The annual Goa Carnival is a pre‑Lenten festival featuring parades, floats, music, and dance held in towns including Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa.[29]
Gujarat
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Gujarat is a western Indian state on the Arabian Sea, noted for archaeological sites, historic temples and mosques, coastal landscapes, and wildlife reserves. Its inscribed World Heritage properties include Rani ki Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, and Dholavira in Kachchh.[30][31][32]
The last remaining wild population of the Asiatic lion occurs in and around Gir in Saurashtra, Gujarat.[33][34] The Indus Valley site of Lothal in the Ahmedabad region is noted for an early dockyard and related maritime infrastructure.[35]
Selected attractions - Rani ki Vav (Patan) — an 11th‑century stepwell inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.[36] - Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park — a cultural landscape with fortifications, palaces, mosques, temples, and water systems spanning prehistoric to medieval periods.[37] - Dholavira (Kachchh) — one of the best-preserved urban settlements of the Harappan civilisation, with sophisticated water management.[38] - Gir Forest National Park — core area of the only wild Asiatic lion population.[39] - Lothal — Harappan settlement with an early dockyard and archaeological museum.[40]
Dholavira, a major Indus Valley civilization city
Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka
Asiatic lions occur in and around Gir Forest National Park
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Haryana
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Gurgaon (officially Gurugram) is a major city and economic centre in Haryana; nearby Sultanpur National Park is a protected wetland and Ramsar Site known for resident and migratory waterbirds.[41][42]
Pilgrimage and heritage - Kurukshetra – Historic region with numerous religious and cultural sites connected to epic traditions and later history.[43] - Jyotisar – Site promoted as the “birthplace of the Gita,” with associated temples and interpretation facilities.[44] - Thanesar – Town that includes the Sthanesvar Mahadev Temple and other shrines in the Kurukshetra area.[45] - Pehowa – A tirtha where rituals such as Pind Daan are performed at traditional ghats.[46] - Panchkula – Access point for the Morni Hills area, including lakes such as Tikkar Tal.[47] - Phalgu Tirth (Pharal) – Pilgrimage site in Kaithal district associated with Shraddha observances.[48]
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Himachal Pradesh
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Himachal Pradesh is noted for Himalayan landscapes, hill stations, and outdoor recreation including rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, ice-skating, and heli-skiing.[49]
Shimla, the state capital, is a popular hill station served by road, rail, and air; the Kalka–Shimla Railway is a narrow‑gauge line inscribed on UNESCO’s “Mountain Railways of India.”[50] Other well-known hill stations include Manali, Dalhousie, and Kasauli.
Dharamshala—home to the headquarters of His Holiness the Dalai Lama—has Tibetan monasteries and Buddhist temples and serves as a base for treks in the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar range.[51] Bir and nearby Billing are noted paragliding sites in the district.[52] The Spiti Valley is known for high‑altitude landscapes, monasteries, and villages in a cold‑desert environment.[53]
Skiing in Manali
Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh
Jammu and Kashmir
Kashmir features lakes, gardens, and religious shrines alongside historic temples and mosques across destinations such as Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg.[55] Major pilgrimages include Vaishno Devi, which recorded 95.22 lakh pilgrims in 2023, and the annual Amarnath Yatra, which saw about 3.69 lakh pilgrims in 2023.[56][57]
Tourist attractions include Dal Lake and the Mughal gardens of Srinagar, meadows and rivers in Pahalgam, and alpine slopes around Gulmarg; nearby valleys such as Yusmarg are also visited for outdoor recreation.[58]
Amarnath Temple near Pahalgam (open during the summer pilgrimage season)
Gulmarg Gondola cable car in winter
Vaishno Devi Temple near Jammu
Jharkhand
Jharkhand is a state in eastern India formed on 15 November 2000. [59] Notable attractions include waterfalls near Ranchi, major Hindu and Jain pilgrimage centres, and protected forests and wildlife areas. [60]
Baidyanath (Baidyanath Dham) at Deoghar is among the twelve jyotirlingas of Shiva and is a focal point during the Shravani Mela. [61][62]
Shikharji, on Parasnath hill (the highest peak in Jharkhand), is a major Jain tirtha. Jain tradition holds that twenty of the twenty-four tirthankaras attained moksha here. [63][64]
Ranchi, the state capital, is known for waterfalls on its outskirts, including Jonha Falls and Hundru Falls. [65][66]
Protected areas include Palamau Tiger Reserve (part of Betla National Park) and Topchanchi Wildlife Sanctuary. [67][68]
Karnataka
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Karnataka has been ranked as fourth most popular destination for tourism among states of India.[69] It has the highest number of national protected monuments in India, at 507. Kannada dynasties like Kadambas, Western Gangas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagaras and the Kingdom of Mysore ruled from what is today Karnataka.[70][71] They built monuments to Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. These monuments are preserved at Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal, Mahakuta, Hampi, Lakshmeshwar, Sudi, Hooli, Mahadeva Temple (Itagi), Dambal, Lakkundi, Gadag, Hangal, Halasi, Galaganatha, Chaudayyadanapura, Banavasi, Belur, Halebidu, Sringeri, Shravanabelagola, Sannati, Nanjangud, Mysore, Nandi Hills, Kolar, Mudabidri, Gokarna, Bagali, Kuruvatti and many more. Notable Islamic monuments are present at Bijapur, Bidar, Gulbarga, Raichur and other parts of the state. Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur has the second largest pre-modern dome in the world after the Byzantine Hagia Sophia. Karnataka has two World Heritage Sites, at Hampi and Pattadakal. In Bellary, there are forts which were built by Tipu Sultan for protection.
Karnataka state has several palaces such as Bangalore Palace, Mysore Palace (also known as Ambavilas Palace), Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Nalknad Palace, Rajendra Vilas, Jaganmohan Palace, Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, Lalitha Mahal, Rajendra Vilas, Cheluvamba Mansion, Shivappa Nayaka Palace and Daria Daulat Bagh. Karnataka is famous for Jog falls of Shimoga District, the second-highest waterfalls in Asia. Karnataka has many beaches at Malpe, Kaup, Marvanthe, Karwar, Gokarna, Murdeshwara, Surathkal. Yana in Uttara Kannada, Fort in Chitradurga, Ramnagara near Bengaluru district, Shivagange in Tumkur district, Tekal in Kolar district, and Utsav Rock Garden in Shiggaon, Uttar Kannada are popular among rock climbers.[72]
Hill stations in Karnataka are generally unexplored and more pristine than better known ones in South India. Major hill stations in the state are Agumbe and Kodachadri in Shimoga District; Baba Budangiri, Kemmangundi, Kudremukh in Chikkamangaluru District; Biligiriranga Hills in Chamarajanagar District and Kodagu district (also known as Coorg).[citation needed] Other hilly town and regions are Mullayanagiri, Pushpagiri (or Kumara Parvatha), Nandi Hills, Chikkaballapur district, Kundadri, Tadiandamol, Talakaveri, Male Mahadeshwara Hills, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, Ambaragudda, Antara Gange, Savandurga, Kurinja, Yedakumeri, Siddara Betta, Bananthimari Betta, Skandagiri, Devarayanadurga and Madhugiri.[citation needed]
Karnataka is the state which has the highest population of tigers and elephants in India. It is also the state which has the third highest leopard population in India, making Karnataka the premier wildlife state of India. Karnataka has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks such as, Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Bhadra Tiger Reserve, Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve, BRT Tiger Reserve Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Dandeli; Ghataprabha Bird Sanctuary; Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary; Peacock sanctuary in Bankapura; Ranebennur blackbuck sanctuary, Haveri district; Deva Raya Wildlife Sanctuary, near Hampi; Attiveri Bird Sanctuary, near Hubli-Dharwad, Uttara Kannada; Anshi National Park, Uttara Kannada; Magadi Bird Sanctuary, Shirahatti; Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary;[73] Adichunchanagiri Wildlife Sanctuary;[74] Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary ;[75] Biligiriranga Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary; Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary; Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary; Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary; Melukote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary ;[76] in Mandya district; Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary; Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary; Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary; Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary; Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary; Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary; Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary; Gudavi Bird Sanctuary; Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary; Kaggaladu Heronry; Kokkare Bellur; Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary and Bonal Bird Sanctuary.
Jain Narayana temple inside Pattadakal complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kerala
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Kerala is a state on the tropical Malabar Coast of south-western India. It is popularly known as God's Own Country and nicknamed as one of the "10 paradises of the world" by National Geographic,[77] Kerala is famous especially for its eco-tourism initiatives. Its unique culture and traditions, coupled with its varied demography, have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Growing at a rate of 13.31%, the tourism industry significantly contributes to the state's economy. Kerala is known for its tropical backwaters, especially in Alappuzha, Kochi and Kuttanadu. The beaches in Trivandrum such as Kovalam and Varkala are also popular. In recent years, many other beaches in Kerala such as Fort Kochi and Cherai beach attract many local and foreign tourists. Munnar is the most visited hill station in Kerala.
From the greenscapes of Idukki to cities like Trivandrum and Kochi, Kerala has a large collection of tourist spots. Popular attractions in the state include the beaches at Kovalam, Varkala, Cherai, Kappad and Muzhappilangad. The Fort Kochi Beach is one of the most visited beach by foreigners even though it is not used much for swimming. The hill stations of Munnar, Thekkady, Ramakkalmedu Nelliampathi, Ponmudi and Wayanad are very popular. The forts like the Bekal Fort in Kanhangad and St. Angelo's Fort in Kannur and the National Parks/ Wildlife sanctuaries at Periyar and Eravikulam attract a lot of local and foreign tourists. The "backwaters" region, an extensive network of interlocking rivers, lakes, and canals that centre on Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Punnamada, also see heavy tourist traffic. Heritage sites, such as East Fort, Kuthira Malika, Hill Palace, Mattancherry Palace are also famous. Cities such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kollam are popular centres for shopping and traditional theatrical performance.
Kerala has a very rich history. The oldest Synagogue outside the middle east is in Kerala. The oldest Christian churches in Indian subcontinent is in Kerala. The oldest mosque in Indian subcontinent is in Kerala.[clarification needed]
The Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF) claimed to be Asia's largest shopping festival and began in 2007.[78] Since then it has been conducted in December and January. During this period, stores and shops registered under the GKSF offer a wide range of discounts, vat refunds etc. Along with the shopping experience, shoppers are provided with gift coupons for a fixed value of purchase entering them into weekly and mega lucky draws. As compared to shopping festivals being held in other countries, this Festival converts the entire state of Kerala into a giant shopping mall, and includes both large and small businesses.
The state's tourism agenda promotes ecologically sustained tourism, which focuses on the local culture, wilderness adventures, volunteering and personal growth of the local population. Efforts are taken to minimise the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people.
Madhya Pradesh
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Madhya Pradesh is called the "Heart of India" because of its location in the centre of the country.[79] It has been home to the cultural heritage of Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism. Monuments, temples, stupas, forts and palaces are dotted all over the state.
The temples of Khajuraho are known for their aphrodisiac sculptures, and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gwalior is famous for its fort, Jai Vilas Palace, the Tomb of Rani Lakshmibai, Md. Ghaus and Tansen.
Famous national parks like Kanha National Park, Bandhavgadh, Madhav National Park, Shivpuri, Pench are located in Madhya Pradesh. Kuno Palpur national park is getting African cheetahs and is expected to become only reserve having four species of big cats (lion, tiger, leopard and cheetah). Madhya Pradesh is known for Narmada river, which is worshipped as a Hindu deity. Narmada originates from Amarkantak, a wild reserve and pilgrimage centre for Hindus. Another tourist destination is Bhedaghat Falls in Jabalpur. The river Narmada takes the form of massive falls here. The place is surrounded by marble of various colours. The prime attraction includes boating in the river.
Attractions include
♦Wildlife – Kanha National Park,[80] Bandhavgarh National Park(website), Pench Tiger Reserve
♦Heritage – Khajuraho Temple Group, Orchha, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters Caves
♦Worship – Ujjain,[81][82] Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Maihar, Sanchi
♦Water Bodies / Lakes/ Dams – Bhojtal "Upper Lake- Bhopal", Gandhi Sagar Dam, Indirasagar Dam, Pipliyapala,[83] Tawa Reservoir, Bhedaghat
Bhopal, is known as City of Lakes
Mahakal corridor in Ujjain
Patalpani waterfalls near Indore
The massive Bhedaghat Falls
Orchha Palace
Gwalior Fort in Gwalior city
Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ancient temples of Amarkantak
Bandhavgarh National Park have highest known density of the tiger population
Maharashtra
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Maharashtra is one of the most visited states in India by foreign tourists,[69] with over 4.3 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2014. Maharashtra has a large number of popular and revered religious venues that are heavily frequented by locals as well as out-of-state visitors. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is the tourism capital of Maharashtra.[84][85]
Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus are the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra and are credited for the development of tourism in the state.[86]
Mumbai, its capital, is the most popular cosmopolitan city in India. Mumbai is famous for Bollywood, the world's largest film industry. In addition, Mumbai is famous for its clubs, shopping, and upscale gastronomy. The city is known for its architecture, from the ancient Elephanta Caves, to the Islamic Haji Ali Mosque, to the colonial architecture of Bombay High Court and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.
Maharashtra also has numerous adventure tourism destinations, including paragliding, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Maharashtra also has several national parks and reserves, including Tadoba with accommodation and safari experiences besides little known by wildlife destinations[incomprehensible] like Koyna, Nagzira, Melghat (disturbed with massive mining truck movement), Dajipur, Radhanagari and the only national park within metropolis city limits in the world – Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Other sites include the Bibi Ka Maqbara at Aurangabad, the Mahalakshmi temple at Kolhapur, the cities of Nashik and Trimbak (famous for religious importance), the city of Pune (which was the seat of the Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire) and the Hindu Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Mangi Tungi in Nashik is a very important pilgrimage of the Jain community. The 108 ft tall Statue of Ahimsa at Mangi Tungi, the tallest Jain Statue in the world attracts Jain devotees from around the world. This statue holds the Guinness world record for the tallest Jain idol.[87] Famous temples of Lord Ganesha, Shri Siddhivinayak Mandir, Mumbai and Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple, Pune are located in Maharashtra.
Lonar Lake, a notified National Geo-heritage Monument
Forts of Maharashtra are also called Green canyon of India
Kailasha temple(r. 756-773 CE), sculpted in a whole basalt rock cliff from the top down.
Khandoba Jejuri temple
Kalavantin Durg, one of many 'hill forts' used by the maratha empire.
A great hornbill in Raigad
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Mahabaleshwar is a hill station in India's forested Western Ghats range, south of Mumbai. It features several elevated viewing points, such as Arthur's Seat. West of here is the centuries-old Pratapgad Fort, perched atop a mountain spur. Lingmala Waterfall lies eastward.
Manipur
Manipur is a state in northeast India known for its greenery and moderate climate. The seasonal Shirui lily at Ukhrul district, sangai (brow antlered deer), and the floating islands at Loktak Lake are popular tourist destinations. Other tourist attractions are:
- Imphal (capital)
- Churachandpur
- Keibul Lamjao National Park
- War cemeteries
- Loktak Lake
- Moreh
Meghalaya
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Meghalaya has some of the thickest surviving forests in the country, constituting one of the most important ecotourism circuits in the country. The Meghalayan subtropical forests support a vast variety of flora and fauna. Meghalaya has two national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries.
Meghalaya also offers many adventure tourism opportunities in the form of mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking and hiking, water sports, etc. The state offers several trekking routes, some of which also afford an opportunity to encounter some rare animals such as the slow loris, assorted deer, and bear. The Umiam Lake has a water sports complex with facilities such as rowboats, paddle boats, sailing boats, cruise boats, water scooters, and speedboats.
Cherrapunjee is one of the most popular tourist spots in North East of India. It lies to the south of the capital Shillong. A 50-kilometre-long road connects Cherrapunjee with Shillong.
The popular waterfalls in the state are the Elephant Falls, Shadthum Falls, Weinia Falls, Bishop Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Langshiang Falls and Sweet Falls. The hot springs at Jakrem near Mawsynram are believed to have curative and medicinal properties.
Balpakram National Park, also known as "Land of Spirits" by the Garos, is located in South Garo Hills district, Baghmara, with a landscape often compared to Grand Canyon of the USA.
Siju Cave is also a famous destination in the South Garo Hills region. It is 25 km long, surveyed by P. Chopra et al. in the 20th century.
Nokrek National Park is one of the famous places in the Garo Hills region. It is home to the mother citrus fruit known locally as "Me•mang Narangz" scientifically named Citrus indica.
Mizoram
Mizoram has a dramatic landscape and moderate climate. The state is rich in bird diversity, which has the potential to make it a major bird watching destination.[89] Mizoram is a stronghold for Mrs. Hume's pheasant (Syrmaticus humiae).[90] There is also a rare record of the wild water buffalo from the state.[91] There have been several records of sightings of the Sumatran rhinoceros from Mizoram, and Lushai hills.[92] A small population of wild elephants can be seen in Ngengpui and Dampa Sanctuaries.[93] Other sites include Mizo Poets' Square, also known as Mizo Hlakungpui Mual, in Mizo, as well as the Great Megaliths locally known as "Kawtchhuah Ropui".
Odisha
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Odisha has been a destination from ancient days for people who have an interest in spirituality, religion, culture, art and the natural environment. Things to see in Odisha include ancient and medieval architecture, sea beaches, the classical dance Odissi and ethnic dance forms like Chhau, Ghumura and Sambalpuri, and a variety of festivals. Odisha also has a very rich variety of food. Rock-edicts lie by the banks of the Daya River. Buddhist temples exist at Udayagiri, Lalitgiri as well as Ratnagiri, on the banks of river Birupa. Odisha also has stupas, rock-cut caves, rock-edicts, excavated monasteries, viharas, chaityas and sacred relics in caskets and the Rock-edicts of Ashoka.
Odisha is famous for the Jagannath Temple (Puri), UNESCO World Heritage Site Konark Sun Temple and The Leaning Temple of Huma. Out of total 4 Chausathi Yogini temples all over India, 2 are in Odisha, in Hirapur and Ranipur Jharial. Oriya Sanskrit Poet Jayadeva, who wrote wrote the Gita Govinda, was born here in Kenduli Sasan village near Khurda.
Rajarani Temple is located in Bhubaneswar, containing more than 500 ancient temples. Lord Lingaraja Temple (a 12th-century AD temple), Kedaragauri Temple, Ananta Vasudeva Temple, Brahmeswara Temple are some of the other temples in the capital. Bhubaneswar has State Museum, Regional Museum of Natural History (having one of the two eggs of an extinct species), Botanical Garden, Jain centres like Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Pathani Samanta Planetarium, Dhauli White Pagoda where Chandashoka became Dharmashoka.
Odisha is the home for various tribal communities who have contributed to the multicultural and multilingual character of the state with handicrafts, different dance forms, jungle products and their lifestyle blended with their healing practices. The Ratha-Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri and Sitalsasthi Carnival of Lord Shiva in Sambalpur are among the leading sights.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was born in Cuttack, and his house (Janakinath Bhavan) is now a museum. The medieval capital of Cuttack has the Barabati fort (witnessing Gangas, Marathas and British), the silver filigree works, Katak Chandi Temple, Barabati Stadium, Qadam-I-Rasul and Dhabaleswar temple (having longest rope-bridge in India succeeded by Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh). Eastern Ghats' highest peak, Mahendragiri, where Lord Parshuram is still in meditation according to Ramayana and Mahabharata, is in Gajapati district.
Sites/cities/places of interest:
1. Bhubaneswar – Lingaraj Temple, Rajarani Temple, Dhauligiri, Khandagiri and Udaygiri, Nandankanan Zoological Park.
2. Cuttack – Barabati Fort, Katak Chandi Temple, Lalitgiri-Ratnagiri-Udaygiri, Dhabaleswar Temple.
3. Puri – Jagannath Temple, Chilika Lake, Konark Temple and beach.
4. Sambalpur – Samaleswari Temple, Hirakud Dam.
5. Berhampur – Gopalpur-on-Sea, Taptapani, Taratarini, Sonpur
7. Mayurbhanj- Shimlipal Biosphere Reserve
8. Dhenkanal – Kapilas, Saptasajya
9. Balasore – Chandipur-on-sea, Chandabali, Chandaneswar, Panchalingeshwar, Aradi (Lord Akhandalamani).
10.Balangir-Harishankar temple, 64 yogini temple
10.Kalahandi- Maa Manikeswari Temple, Bhawanipatna, Phurlijharan Waterfall
Puducherry
The Union Territory of Puducherry comprises four coastal regions: Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam. Puducherry is the capital of this Union Territory and one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India. Puducherry has been described by National Geographic as "a glowing highlight of subcontinental sojourn". The city has many colonial buildings, churches, temples, and statues, which, combined with the systematic town planning and the French-style avenues, still preserve much of the colonial ambiance.
Punjab
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The state of Punjab is renowned for its cuisine, culture and history. Punjab has a vast public transportation and communication network. Some of the main cities in Punjab are Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, Pathankot and Ludhiana. Nabha is famous as a manufacturing hub of combine harvesters and other manufacturing units, while Patiala is known for the historical forts. Punjab also has a rich Sikh religious history. Tourism in Punjab is principally suited for tourists interested in culture, ancient civilisation, spirituality and history. Some of the villages in Punjab have traditional Indian homes, farms and temples. Lonely Planet Bluelist 2008 has voted the Harmandir Sahib as one of the world's best spiritual sites with over 100,000 pilgrims and tourists visiting on a daily basis.
Another main tourist destination is the religious and historic city of Sri Anandpur Sahib where many tourists come to see the Virasat-e-Khalsa (Khalsa Heritage Memorial Complex) and also take part in Hola Mohalla festival. Kila Raipur Sports Festival is also popular tourist attraction in Kila Raipur near Ludhiana.[94][95][96] Shahpur kandi fort, Ranjit sagar lake and Muktsar Temple also popular attractions in Pathankot.
Rajasthan
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Rajasthan, literally meaning "Land of the Kings", lies in Western India. The vast sand dunes of the Thar Desert attract millions of tourists from around the globe every year.
Attractions:
- Kota - Chambal riverfront, Chambal river gorge, Wonders Park, Garadia Mahadev temple, City Palace, Kishore Sagar
- Jaipur – The capital of Rajasthan, famous for its rich history and royal architecture * Pink City
- Chittorgarh – Chittorgarh Fort, Vijay Stambh, Kalika Mata Mandir, Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha's Palace, Rani Padmini's Palace and temple of devotee of Lord Krishna, Meera (Meera Temple).
- Jodhpur – Fortress-city at the edge of the Thar Desert, famous for its blue homes and architecture and Blue City
- Udaipur – Known as the "Venice" of India
- Jaisalmer – Famous for its golden fortress (one of the largest living forts), its palaces (Havelis), lake, fossil park, desert sand dune safaris-camps, desert national parks, Jain temples. The city is known as Golden City.
- Ajmer – Holy city, popular for the shrine of Sufi Saikhllnt Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti
- Barmer – Barmer and surrounding areas offer perfect picture of typical Rajasthani villages
- Bikaner – Famous for world-famous KARNI Mata Temple (The Rat temple) and medieval history as a trade route outpost
- Mount Abu – Is a popular hill station, the highest peak in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan, Guru Shikhar is located here. Mount Abu is famous for Dilwara Temples.
- Ranakpur – Large Jain Temple complex, with around 1444 pillars and exquisite marble carvings
- Pushkar – It has the first and one of the very Brahma temples in the world
- Keoladeo National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Nathdwara – This town near Udaipur hosts the temple of Shrinathji
- Sawai Madhopur – Famous for Ranthambore National Park and historic Ranthambore Fort
- Shekhawati – For traditional Havelis
- Dhosi Hill – Vedic period Hill, Chyvan Rishi Ashram
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Hawa Mahal in Jaipur
Jaisalmer Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jaisalmer
Ranthambore Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ranthambore National Park famous for tigers
Kumbhalgarh a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rajsamand District
Thar Desert near Jaisalmer
Sikkim
The capital of Sikkim is Gangtok, located approximately 105 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri, the nearest railway station to Sikkim. Although, Pakyong Airport is a domestic airport in East Sikkim, it is largely inoperative due to the sub-standard runway length and other logistic issues, the other nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal. Sightseeing places include Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Handicraft Shops, Tsangpo Lake, Chardham, Buddha Park, Ridgepark, Flower Shows (International Flowers Shows) Samduptse, Tashi View point Tashiding, Pelling, Yuksom, Rabdentse, Tibetology, Ropeway and Mt. Kangchenjunga.
The treks to Dzongri, Dzongku, Goechala and Gurudongmar Lake towards the northern part of the state are very popular and attracts domestic and international tourists. Numerous local tour operators registered and recognised by the Department of Tourism run various trekking programs in the state providing fooding, lodging, and travel.
Tamil Nadu
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Tamil Nadu was the most visited tourist destination by both Indian and International tourists in 2014 with over 320 million domestic visits and 4.6 million foreign visits. Tourism in Tamil Nadu is promoted by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation and by the state government, with the tagline enchanting Tamil Nadu. TTDC promotes tourism in the state by arranging various functions and events. The capital city of Chennai is the only place in India to be listed in "52 places to go around the world" by The New York Times. Marina beach in Chennai is the second longest beach in the world and Chennai is home to numerous historic temples and parks. Chennai is also nicknamed as the Gateway of South India.
- Temples
The state has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include the Great Living Chola Temples and Mahabalipuram. Archaeological sites with civilisation dating back to 3800 years[98] have been discovered in Tamil Nadu. The Mahabalipuram sea shore temples were built by rulers of Pallava dynasty. The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur was built in 1010 AD.[99] Other major temples include Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Ramanathaswamy Temple, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Jambukeswarar Temple, Srivilliputhur Andal Temple and Arunachaleswara Temple.[100] All these temples showcase Dravidian architecture which was prevailed during the ancient period. The six abodes of Lord Murugan are situated in Tamil Nadu.
- Sanctuaries and national parks
The Western Ghats is one of the eight hottest biodiversity hotspots in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.[101][102][103] The mangrove forests of Pichavaram are the second largest in the world[104] and the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve covers an area of 10,500 km2 of ocean, islands and the adjoining coastline including coral reefs, salt marshes, mangroves and is home to endangered aquatic species including dolphins, dugongs, whales and sea cucumbers.[105][106] The wetlands attract numerous migratory birds from Europe and America. The state government has established 13 bird sanctuaries to protect the birds from poaching and hunting. The state also has various bird sanctuaries including 13 established bird sanctuaries[107] The state is home to one of the largest populations of endangered Indian elephant and Bengal tiger.[108] The region is home to one-third of the tiger population and more than half of the elephant population of India.[109][110] There are four Project Tiger reserves and four Project Elephant reserves in the state which include Anamalai, Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Kalakkad-Mundanthurai.[111][112] Other threatened and endangered species found in the region include grizzled giant squirrel,[113] grey slender loris,[114] sloth bear,[115] Nilgiri tahr,[116] Nilgiri langur,[117] lion-tailed macaque,[118] and Indian leopard.[119] Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of mainland India provides scenic view of sunset and sunshine over the Indian Ocean. Waterfalls like Hogenakkal Falls and wildlife sanctuaries are located across the state.
- Hill stations
Ooty, Kodaikanal and Yercaud are well-known hill stations. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a mountain railway built in 1908,[120] and operated by a fleet of steam locomotives.[121] In July 2005, UNESCO added the Nilgiri Mountain Railway as an extension to the World Heritage Site Mountain Railways of India.[121][122]
- Medical tourism
The state is a popular destination for medical tourism and the cities of Chennai and Coimbatore house some of Asia's premier hospitals.[123][124]
Stone chariot mandapam at Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram
Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam, largest Hindu temple in India
Tea plantation in the heights of Ooty.
Terraced farming in Kodaikanal
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Telangana
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Telangana is one of the most frequented tourist places in South India. Hyderabad is one of the most developed cities in the country and a modern hub of information technology, ITES, and biotechnology. Hyderabad is known for its rich history, culture and architecture representing its character as a meeting point for North and South India. Hyderabad was ranked second best place in the world to visit in 2015 by National Geographic's Traveler magazine.[125]
- Birla Mandir, Hyderabad is a white marble Hindu temple of Lord Venkateshwara on the Naubath Pahad in Hyderabad.
- The Ramappa Temple and Thousand Pillar Temple in Warangal are famous for their temple carvings of the Kakatiya dynasty.
- Sammakka Saralamma Jatara is held every second year in Medaram.
- Gnana Saraswati Temple, Basar (Nirmal district) is a Saraswati temple.
- Sri Rajarajeshwara Temple – One of the famous and most visited Lord Shiva temple located in Vemulawada (Rajanna Sircilla district)
- Vemulavada temple is built by Chalukya Kings between AD 750 and 975.
- Yadagirigutta, the abode of an avatara of Vishnu, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha.
Famous Buddhist centres:
- Nelakondapalli – Khammam District
- Dhulikatta – Karimnagar District
- Phanigiri – Suryapet District
Pilgrim centres and temples:
- Bhadrachalam Temple – In Bhadradri Kothagudem district
- Ramappa Temple – Near to Warangal City
- Yadagirigutta – Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district
- Thousand Pillar Temple – Hanamakonda city in Warangal District
- Kuchadri sri venkateshwara swamy temple in Kuchanpally, Medak District[126][127]
Attractions:
- Charminar – Centre of the Hyderabad Old City
- Golkonda Fort – Largest and 400 years oldest fort
- Chowmahalla Palace – It was the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad.
- Ramoji Film City – Largest Film City in the world situated in Hyderabad City
- Warangal Fort – Oldest fort built by Kakatiya before 13th century reflects the culture of Telugu people
- Thousand Pillar Temple - Built by King Rudra Deva in 1163 AD. The Thousand Pillar Temple is a specimen of the Kakatiyan style of architecture of the 12th century.
- Surendrapuri – A Mythological Awareness Centre near Yadagirigutta, 60 km from Hyderabad
- Salar Jung Museum – It is one of the three National Museums of India,[128] situated in Hyderabad City.
Golkonda (Telugu: గోల్కొండ, Urdu: گولکوندا), a ruined city of south-central India and capital of the medieval kingdom of Golkonda (c. 1364 – 1512), is situated 11 km west of Hyderabad.
Tripura
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- Ujjayanta Palace – The gleaming white Ujjayanta Palace located in the capital city of Agartala evokes the age of Tripura Maharajas. Constructed by the king of Tripura Maharaja Radha Kishor Manikya during the late 19th century and finished off in 1901, the Indo-Saracenic building is set up in a large Mughal-style garden with two man-made lakes on its both sides. The palace is of two-storied mansion and has three domes, each 86 feet high; a tile floor, and a curved wooden ceiling. Floodlights and a light and sound fountain have been set up in the palace for both locals and tourists.
- Unakoti – Located about 186 km from Agartala, Unokoti is an important site of archaeological wonder. It is a Shaiva pilgrimage attraction and dates back to the 7th to 9th centuries AD. The site consists of several huge vertical rock-cut carvings on a hillside. The site shows strong evidence of Buddhist occupation but also has a central Shiva head and imposing Ganesha figures having a height of 30 feet. The rocky walls also have a carved images of Hindu pantheon like Durga and Vishnu. The unakoti rock-cut carving have the distinction of being the largest bas-relief sculpture in India.
- Bhubaneshwari Temple – Another temple of eminence of Tripura is this temple. located 55 km from Agartala on the eastern fringe of Udaipur town by the bank of bank of river Gomati. The temple is now under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India. It was built by Maharaja Govinda Manikya (1660–1676). The temple is immortalised in Rabindranath Tagore's famous play known as Bisarjan and Rajarshi. Maharaja Govinda also features an important character in Tagore's play. While approaching Bhubaneshwari Temple one can find the ruins of the palace of the Maharaja. Down below the temple the river Gomati flows.
- Gunabati Group of Temples – From its name it reveals that it was built in the name of Maharani Gunabati (wife of Maharaja Govinda Manikya), in 1668 AD. The two other temples also bears contemporary look but there actual history is still unveiled. Architecture of these temples resembles other contemporary temples of Tripura except the top most parts are without Stupa. Core-Chambers are marked by a presence of pitcher circular core chamber and its vestibule which was large with Stupa like crown is crafted like a lotus[129]
- Chabimura – A famous panel of rock carving on the steep mountain walls on the banks of Gomati. There are huge images carved of Shiva, Vishnu, Kartika, Mahisasurmardini Durga and other Gods and goddesses. These images date back to the 15th or 16th century. Chabimura is 30 km away from Udaipur. It is situated in Amarpur subdivision. Devatamura means God's peak and it a full range between Udaipur and Amarpur Subdivision. It is famous for its many idols of gods and goddess. These images are carved on the rocky faces of Devtamura which is steep at 90 degrees. The hill ranges are covered with thick jungles and one cab reach this adobe of gods only after trekking through these jungles.
- Boxanagar – Recently after denudation of a nature forest area, ruins of a brick built building emerged in the northwestern part of Sonamura Sub-Division on the edge of the border with Bangladesh. The local people initially attributed the remains to the ancient temple of Manasa- the goddess of snake. Attention was drawn to the Archaeological Survey of India and they took over the site. A statue of The Buddha was discovered and it was confirmed that once upon a time it was a Buddhist Temple i.e. a Monastery. More than excavation of the site will unearth the hidden story.[130]
- Pilak, Tripura – a famous place of attraction for its archaeological remains from the 8th and 9th centuries. Pilak is situated at a distance of 144 km from Agartala. The place is a treasure house of Buddhist and Sculpture in the Hindu Sculptures. There runs a hilly rivulet near the place which is known as Pilak stream. Few temples with plaques of terracotta and stone images can be found here. Huge sculptures made of stones of Avalokiteśvara in the 9th century[131] and Narasimha image of the 12th century were found here. Both of there are now preserved in the Museum of Agartala. Even now one can find many sculptures of Goddess in Pilak as Lord Durga, Lord Ganesha, Lord Suriya, etc.[132] There is image of a God holding a lotus which is of ten feet high. There are terracotta images of Kinnars. Two bronze statue of Buddhas were discovered in Rishyamukh near Pilak. All these lead to establish that the place was once under the rule of Buddhist kings followed by Hindu rule in subsequent years. Pilak, the treasure-trove of archaeological riches has close association with Mynamoti and Paharpur in Bangladesh. It is believed that the area has more hidden treasures and as such recently further excavation drive has been taken up by Archaeological Survey of India. Tourist may find it delighted to explore the history of this lovely destination.
Uttarakhand
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Uttarakhand, the 27th state of the Republic of India, is called "the abode of the Gods" or referred as the "Heaven on Earth". It contains glaciers, snow-clad mountains, valleys of flowers, skiing slopes, dense forests, and many shrines and places of pilgrimage. Chota Char Dham is a minor pilgrimage of the four most sacred and revered Hindu temples: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are nestled in the Himalayas, of which Badrinath is part of Char Dham, a major pilgrimage of four highly sacred Hindu temples.[133][134] Haridwar which means Gateway to God is the only place on the plains.
It holds the watershed for Gangetic river system spanning 300 km from Satluj in the west to Kali river in the east. Nanda Devi (25,640 ft) is the second highest peak in India after Kanchenjunga (28,160 ft). Dunagiri, Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, Panchachuli, Trisul are other peaks above 23,000 ft. It is considered the abode of Devtas, Yakashyas, Kinners, Fairies and Sages.[135] It has some old hill-stations developed during British era like Mussoorie, Almora, Dwarahat, Ranikhet and Nainital.
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Glaciers |
Wildlife Reserves |
Adventure Sports |
The most sacred Hindu temple, Badrinath Temple.
Kedarnath Temple in Kedarnath town.
Jim Corbett National Park the oldest national park in India, famous for tigers
Uttar Pradesh
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Situated in the northern part of India and bordering New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.It is the place where Lord Rama was born in a city of Uttar Pradesh called Ayodhya, which is the most holiest city in Hinduism. It is the home of Taj Mahal, as well as one of the Hinduism's holiest city, Varanasi. Kathak, one of the eight forms of Indian classical dance, originated from Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh is known as The Heartland of India. The cuisine of Uttar Pradesh, such as Awadhi cuisine, Mughlai cuisine, and Kumauni cuisine, is very famous in India and abroad.
- Ayodhya, is the most holiest city in Hinduism, as Lord Rama was born in this city.
- Varanasi - The origin of Hinduism and one of the world's oldest cities. It is one of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism, making it a significant pilgrimage site, especially for Lord Shiva devotees. The city is also famous for producing some of the finest textiles.
- Agra – Home to three World Heritage Sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Fatehpur Sikri. Agra boast of several other historical monuments and gardens, such as the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah and the Tomb of Akbar the Great.
- Prayagraj or Prayag - Kumbh Mela - The place where the Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers meet. A mass Hindu pilgrimage gathers at the Ganges river. Akbar forts. Triveni Sangam, Akshayavata, Alopi Devi Mandir, Khusro Bagh, Shankar Viman Mandapam, Nagvasuki Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, Shri Bade Hanuman Ji, Veni Madhav, Kalyani Devi, Lalita Devi are major attractions of the city. It is one the most popular religious centres of ancient and modern India for Hinduism. It is also Uttar Pradesh's administrative and education capital. The world's largest human gathering takes place here during the Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela. In the Kumbh of 2013, about 12 crore devotees came, and in the Ardh Kumbh of 2019, about 24 crore devotees came to Prayagraj. It is estimated that 50 crore devotees will come to the Maha Kumbh to be held in 2025, who will come from every corner of the world and take baths in Triveni Sangam. The government is also expected to get revenue of about Rs 3 lakh crore from the Kumbh Mela of 2025.
- Bithoor, the historical capital of Uttar Pradesh from where the Hindu god Brahma created the universe. It is situated about 10 km from Kanpur.
- Kanpur – Uttar Pradesh's important Industrial town and largest city of the state. It is the most cosmopolitan city of the state, with several historical places like Bithoor and Allen Forest Zoo. It is the second largest metropolitan city of North India with various historical and British Architectural buildings. The Kanpur Memoria Church or All Souls Memorial Church of Gothic architecture was built by Walter Granville in memory of those who died in the Siege of Cawnpore.
- Lucknow - The capital of Uttar Pradesh. It has several historical places with Mughal, British and modern architecture. The cuisine and chikan dresses of Lucknow is famous worldwide.
- Mathura - The birthplace of Lord Krishna of Hinduism and Neminath of Jainism and Holy City
- Jhansi - centre of Rani Lakshmibai's battlefield against British
- Sarnath - where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and one of the four places of pilgrimage which his devout followers are expected to visit. It is also the birthplace of Shreyansanath, the eleventh Jain Tirthankar of the Jainism.
- Kushinagar - It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, where Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained Parinirvana after his death
- Chunar - It is the centre of clay art. Chunar has a 6th-century fort constructed by Chandragupta Vikramaditya. The fort itself had through rulers like Humayun, Sher Shah Suri and was gateway of Mauryan empire. It has waterfalls and natural spots.
- Fatehpur Sikri - Historical place for Mughal Empire's palaces and forts
- Meerut - The historical place of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 or the First War of Indian Independence. It has existed from the Mahabharata period of ancient India to modern India and is one of the fastest growing cities of Uttar Pradesh.
- Hastinapur: This is a popular religious site since it is believed to be capital of the Kauravas and birthplace of 3 tirthankar Shantinatha, Kunthunath and Aranatha.[136][137]
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- Deogarh: This place is famous for Deogarh fort and its Gupta era Hindu and Jain temples dating back to 8th-9th century.[139] like Dashavatara Temple and Shantinath temple.
- Mirzapur Division - The hub of one of the world's finest carpet Industries, and a very popular tourist destination for its sightseeing and one of the fastest growing regions of Uttar Pradesh. It consists of vindhyachal shaktipeeth.
- Ghaziabad: Historical places from ancient India to modern India and India's fastest growing Industrial city. See Buddh International Circuit
- Noida and Greater Noida: IT, electronics and education hub of Northern India. India's biggest city with a planned and high-tech residential area.
- Gorakhpur: The city was home to Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Jain and Sikh saints. The birthplace of Paramhansa Yogananda, great Hindu emperor Chandragupta Maurya.
- Jaunpur: Historical city was founded by the Sultan of Delhi Feroz Shah Tughlaq and named in memory of his father, Muhammad bin Tughluq as Jaunpur Sultanate. Mughals, Lodis and Islamic ruler's Forts and ancient history of India.
- Dudhwa National Park – Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Birds Sanctuary, Frog Temple at Oyal, Surat Bhawan Palace, elephant rides
- Rehar: Several major tourist attractions can be mentioned in the town's surroundings, like Jim Corbett National Park about 24 km, Nainital about 69 km.
- Vrindavan: A town in Mathura district, about 10 km from Mathura. Famous for Prem Mandir Vrindavan, Banke Bihari Temple and Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir.
- Ahichchhatra: is place where Parshvanatha attained Kevala Jnana. A number of Jain temples are built in area to commemorate Parshvanatha attaining Kēvalajñāna kalyāṇaka.[140]
West Bengal
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Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of West Bengal and has been nicknamed the City of Palaces, City of Joy, etc. This comes from the numerous palatial mansions built all over the city. Unlike many north Indian cities, whose construction stresses minimalism, the layout of much of the architectural variety in Kolkata owes its origins to European styles and tastes imported by the British as it was the capital of British India from 1772 to 1911 and, to a much lesser extent, the Portuguese and French. The buildings were designed and inspired by the tastes of the English gentleman around and the aspiring Bengali Babu (literally, a nouveau riche Bengali who aspired to cultivation of English etiquette, manners and custom, as such practices were favourable to monetary gains from the British). Today, many of these structures are in various stages of decay. Some of the major buildings of this period are well maintained and several buildings have been declared as heritage structures. It has been known as the "Cultural Capital of India" for its culture which has led India from the 18th century onwards in all fronts ranging from culture to arts, literature to sciences, sports to politics, theatre to films. It hosted the Bengal Renaissance which had figures like Raja Rammohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Ramakrishna, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose, Prafulla Chandra Ray, Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, Khudiram, Chittaranjan Das, Sri Aurobindo, Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Bagha Jatin, and Bidhan Chandra Roy. West Bengal is also known for the Sunderbans.
From historical point of view, the story of West Bengal begins from Gour and Pandua situated close to the present district town of Malda. The twin medieval cities had been sacked at least once by changing powers in the 15th century. However, ruins from the period still remain, and several architectural specimens still remain. The Hindu architecture of Bishnupur, consisting of terracotta and laterite sandstone, are renowned worldwide. Towards the British colonial period came the architecture of Murshidabad and Coochbehar. Darjeeling is a famous Himalayan city in the state of West Bengal. Darjeeling tea is known for its smell. There are notable hill stations like Kalimpong, Lava, Lolegaon, Rishyap, etc. There are some trek routes like Sandakfu, Falut, etc. West Bengal has some beaches like Digha, Shankarpur, Mandarmoni, Bakkhali etc. West Bengal is home to six national parks[141] — Sundarbans National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Gorumara National Park, Neora Valley National Park, Jaldapara National Park, and Singalila National Park. Extant wildlife include Indian rhinoceroses, Indian elephants, deer, bison, leopards, gaur, and crocodiles, as well as many bird species. Migratory birds come to the state during the winter. The high-altitude forests of Singalila National Park shelter barking deer, red panda, chinkara, takin, serow, pangolin, minivet and kalij pheasants. Additionally, the Sundarbans are noted for a reserve project conserving the endangered royal Bengal tiger, although the forest hosts many other endangered species, such as the Gangetic dolphin, river terrapin and estuarine crocodile.
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Notable sites of West Bengal |
Places of Worship |
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Main attractions of Kolkata |
The famous Durga idol from the Durga Puja
Dakshineswar Kali Temple located in Kolkata
Howrah Bridge has been icon of Kolkata since its construction in 1942
References
External links
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