25 Places Which Foreigners Likes To Visit in India
India for many foreign nationals is the world's most colorful, cultural, chaotic and spiritual country. India is often considered as a continent and not just a country. The landscape of the county spreads up in the north in the form of beautifully wrapped up in bright white sheet of snow, the frozen Himalayas; and in south Kerala with flourished green field, beautiful and most mesmerizing beaches. Its land includes an incomparable range of landscapes, cultures and people. Walk the streets of any city in India and you’ll find yourself walking with the people of great faiths, a multitude of castes and outcasts.
There are some amazing sights to be seen and explored. To the north, there are the Himalayas. To the south there is crawling Indian ocean on the most ravishing beaches. To the west there is Thar Desert, which is world’s seventh largest Desert and to the east tribes of northeast India, which are considered as the most culturally diverse regions in the world.
As a foreigner, you can travel and spend your hard earned money as economically or extravagantly as you want in India. Be able to not spending too much on travel and not to compromise on comfortable commute and stay whilst travelling is definitely add on, which will appeal you as a tourist.
1. Delhi - The Historical City
Aristocracy has been there in Delhi, India’s capital city. Most of the travellers to India land at Delhi. Along with the nobility came the great architecture. The entire history of India seems to have fallen at the same place. From the Mughal monuments to the modern Delhi it’s all a treat to watch for the bag packers. Amongst the many famous monuments in India, the Qutub Minar, Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
There are more than 175 monuments in Delhi; every monument is best and beautiful than the last you would visit. The popular tourist attractions among many other are India gate and Rajpath. India gate is a memorial erected in the honor of soldiers died in World war- I, name of all the soldiers who died in the WW-I are inscribed on the walls of India gate.
There is a shrine in the middle build with black marble with a soldier’s rifle placed on its barrel, crested by the soldier’s helmet. The shrine has been inscribed in gold words Amar Jawan (Immortal Warrior).
Read More : What to do in Delhi for 2 Days
Delhi Travel Guide
- History of Delhi
- Culture of Delhi
- Shopping in Delhi
- What to Eat in Delhi
- Churches in Delhi
- Museums in Delhi
- Facts about Delhi
- What to Wear in Delhi
Suggested Tour : Glimpses of Delhi - 2 Days Tour
2. Taj Mahal - The Symbol of Love
The famous Taj mahal, was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal is an Ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of Yamuna. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983 for being the jewel of Muslim art. It is regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s Rich History. Taj Mahal attracts 7-8 million visitor a year and 2007 it was declared a winner of the new 7 wonders of the world (2000-2007) initiative.
Also Read : 8 Unbelievable Exotic Wonders in India
Taj Mahal Travel Guide
- History of Taj Mahal
- Story of Taj Mahal
- How to Reach Taj Mahal
- Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal
- Architecture of Taj Mahal
- Reason to visit Taj Mahal
3. Jaipur – A Royal Stay
Tourists prefer exploring Jaipur enjoying well-preserved architectures like Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, and others. Culture-enthusiasts love an e-rickshaw around the lanes of the city like Old City Heritage route, market routes, and others. For unique experiences, foreign tourists prefer hot air ballooning, Amrapali antique jewelry museum, and others. For relaxing, hit any of the bars for a magical evening.
If you are looking for a luxury vacation, you can stay in any palace for a royal vacation. Those who love animals should visit the Elephant camps and Monkey temple. Foreigners usually prefer an elephant ride to Amber Fort rather than a jeep ride. If you have a long vacation planned, there are numerous getaways from Jaipur to make a memorable weekend.
Suggested Tour : A Day with Elephants - Jaipur
Jaipur Travel Guide
- How to Reach Jaipur
- Facts of Jaipur
- Tourist Attractions in Jaipur
- Nightlife in Jaipur
- Culture of Jaipur
- Shopping in Jaipur
- What to Wear in Jaipur
- What to Eat in Jaipur
- Things to do in Jaipur
4. Udaipur – A Romantic and Photogenic Destination
You can find numerous foreigners with DSLR and other cameras clicking everything they see. Udaipur is a photogenic destination. Udaipur is a happening-place with many tourist workshops like art classes, cooking classes, and others.
If you are into some adventure time, boat tours, trekking, Yoga classes, meditation sessions, and other outdoor activities of Udaipur will suit you. However, the first activity that every foreigner tries in Udaipur is sightseeing. Top destinations to explore are City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Lake Palace, Eklingji Temple, Bagore ki haveli, Saheliyon ki Bari, and many others.
Top iconic activities famous among international visitors are sunset romantic boat cruise on Lake Pichola, visiting the Rat Temple of Karni Mata, ropeway riding, souvenir shopping, visiting the vintage car museum, and others. If your budget permits, you can book a stay in any of the heritage hotels to enjoy pampering time in Udaipur.
Udaipur Travel Guide
- How to Reach Udaipur
- Best Time to Visit Udaipur
- Tourist Attractions in Udaipur
- Where to Stay in Udaipur
- What to Eat in Udaipur
- Shopping in Udaipur
- Things to do in Udaipur
Suggested Tour :
5. Jodhpur – A Heritage Destination
Mehrangarh Fort and the lanes of this Blue City are not the only elements that attract tourists. Indeed, the foreigners first choose to explore the massive Mehrangarh Fort.
Other important activities preferred by foreigners in Jodhpur are flying fox, exploring Desert Rock Park, souvenir shopping in the old markets, and others.
Jodhpur cuisine is famous for many desserts, and foreigners love Jodhpur desserts than the ones from other destinations of Rajasthan. Around Jodhpur, many interesting attractions and heritage sites are scattered. If you are an explorer, take up drives around Jodhpur to spot as many hidden beauties as possible.
Also Read : Top Heritage Hotels to Stay in Jodhpur
Jodhpur Travel Guide
- How to Reach Jodhpur
- Best Time to Visit Jodhpur
- What to Eat in Jodhpur
- Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur
- Where to Stay in Jodhpur
- Shopping in Jodhpur
- Things To Do in Jodhpur
Suggested Tour :
6. Jaisalmer – Arabian Nights’ Styled Vacation With Camels
Jaisalmer is easily one of the top international destinations of India. The top main attractions of Jaisalmer are the Jaisalmer Fort and the Thar Desert. The Thar Desert attracts foreign tourists with luxury desert camp, camel safari, fire dance, belly dance, and others. Some culture-enthusiasts love puppet shows, night music performances, and others.
For romantic visitors, the main attractions of Jaisalmer are the full moon night desert moon-lit dinner, a boat ride on Gadi Sagar Lake, and others.
There are many temples, havelis, cenotaphs, and others in and around the Jaisalmer fort. Most foreign tourists prefer spending time in the desert with adventure and cultural activities rather than these attractions. Most of the young tourists drive to the cursed village of Kuldhara for a spooky time. The souvenirs and cuisine of Jaisalmer are praised for being both colorful, and unique.
Adventure looking foreigners take up adrenaline-pumping activities like parasailing, over-night jeep safari, desert quad-bike ride, and other activities. Jaisalmer is very hot, and thus, it is best to visit the land during peak winter to enjoy all the above-mentioned activities and attractions.
Also Read : Topmost Places To Be Visited In Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Travel Guide
- How to Reach Jaisalmer
- Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
- Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer
- Shopping in Jaisalmer
- Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
- What to Eat in Jaisalmer
- Things to do in Jaisalmer
Suggested Tour :
7. Ranthambore – Spot Tigers
Ranthambore national park is famous for its safari. Foreigners prefers the jeep safari rather than the canter safari as the jeep safari takes them deeper into the forest, increasing the chances of spotting tigers. Most of the foreign tourists stay in the wildlife resorts closer to the park to enjoy many exclusive activities.
Apart from spotting tigers and other mammals, you can enjoy bird watching, exploring Ranthambore Fort, spotting crocodiles, and others.
Also Read : Top National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rajasthan
Ranthambore Travel Guide
- How to Reach Sawai Madhopur
- Best Time to Visit Sawai Madhopur
- Where to Stay in Sawai Madhopur
- What to Eat in Sawai Madhopur
Suggested Ranthambore Tour
8. Kasol – Enjoy Blissful Nature In Solitude
Every year, thousands of tourists visit India to enjoy some rejuvenating time away from their hustle routine. Kasol sees numerous such tourists who enjoy living off the grid for a few days. Kasol allows tourists to enjoy adventure and outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, village touring, river rafting, fishing, and others.
Some hard-core mountaineers and trekkers choose Kasol for some Himalayan experience. Honeymooners enjoy the solitude that comes with this destination. Kasol is also famous for its culture, which can be enjoyed in the small villages around it. Young aspiring minds visit Kasol for stargazing, especially during summer.
9. Ladakh – Explore Mountain Passes On A Bike
The most iconic attraction of Ladakh that foreigners love to enjoy is scaling the mountain passes on a bike. Some prefer jeep but, most of the tourists stick with bikes. There are numerous passes, each dotted with different types of monasteries, villages, valleys, glaciers, and much more. Foreigners are welcomed in monasteries to stay in their dorm, take part in rituals and enjoy a spiritual vacation. Ladakh is an iconic attraction among western countries' adventure travelers and eastern countries’ spiritual travelers.
Top attractions of Ladakh that pulls foreign tourists in are Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Pangong lake, Moriri Lake, Kargil, Dras, Diskit village, Zanskar Valley, and others. Apart from monasteries, mountain passes, and culture, you can find many trekking routes, camping sites, and other adventure elements to enjoy in Ladakh.
Also Read : Why To Visit Ladakh – Top Reasons to Know
10. Sikkim – Riding A Yak Along Tsomgo Lake
There are numerous iconic attractions and activities to enjoy in Sikkim. However, the first activity that most of the tourists prefer is riding a colorfully decorated yak.
Visiting monasteries and gompas of the region is an age-old iconic attraction among foreigners. The main attraction that impresses most of the international tourists is the Rumtek monastery.
If you are a wildlife lover, visit Khangchendzonga national park and Kewzing national park to enjoy animals and birds indigenous to the alpine environment. The adventure-loving foreigners choose some of the adrenaline-pumping activities like rapid river rafting, cable car ride, paragliding, silk-route mountain pass riding, camping, trekking, and others. Last but not least, the colorful north-east Indian cuisine always stimulates the taste buds of Western world travelers.
Also Read : Sikkim Silk Route – The First Century AD Route
Suggested Tour
11. Shimla – Enjoy Snow And Mist
Shimla is one of the few tourist destinations, which are preferred by foreign tourists of all age groups. This hill town is famous for viewpoints, valleys, temples, shopping streets, and others. If you visit during the peak summer, this is one of the best places to enjoy snow-related activities. In the case of summer vacation, visit the water catchment sanctuary, Summer Hill, Annandale’s cactus museum, and others.
The best of all activities is the ride on the toy train. For adventure lovers, Shimla is filled with adrenaline activities like horse riding, ice skating, skiing, snow trekking, rope-way ride, hiking, camping, and others.
Also Read : Top 15 Offbeat Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Suggested Tour :
- 6 Days - Shimla Manali Tour Packages
- 8 Days - Himachal Hill Station Tour
- 15 Days - Golden Triangle with Himachal Tour
12. Rishikesh – Seek Spirituality Amidst Nature
Rishikesh is always crowded with foreigners for three main reasons; rejuvenation, white water rafting, and marijuana. Marijuana is legal in Rishikesh. Many young tourists reach India to visit Rishikesh for the weed. When it comes to rejuvenation, Yoga and meditation are the two main elements. You can find many ashrams, yoga centers, and even luxury rejuvenating centers. Many ashrams allow foreigners to stay and experience spiritual healing. Yoga attracts a fair number of foreign tourists every year.
Apart from these, Rishikesh is also famous for many tourist attractions like Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Neer Garh waterfall, Beatles Ashram, Shivpuri, and others. After all, Rishikesh is the spot where the Beatles stayed in India.
Also Read : Top 10 Things To Do In Rishikesh
Suggested Tour :
13. Rajasthan - The Land of Desert
Rajasthan is well known for its history and admirable royal hospitality. Along with the hospitality it is a home for several glorious architectural buildings including forts and palaces. You cannot compare the unparalleled Royalty. Should you visit Rajasthan set your eyes on these forts which are a reflection of creativity and the might of the rulers. So if you want to live like a Maharaja and for the ability to immerse yourself in royalty, Rajasthan is a must visit.
Needless to say why you should visit forts in Rajasthan! Nothing can over shine the charm of these impressive grand forts and palaces, with most welcoming people in India.
Related: Know what every Traveller Does in Rajasthan
Suggested : Exclusive Rajasthan Tour Packages
Popular Rajasthan Tours
14. Varanasi - The City of Ganges
Varanasi is said to be a holy city which is set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges. Mark Twain once wrote, “Varanasi is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.”
Varanasi earlier used to be known as Banaras and it is one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. It is a sacred place for people who follow Hindu religion in India. The sights, sounds, smells and colors can be overpowering. Rites and rituals performed by the priests, cremation proceedings on the riverside does not let devotees at the banks of the Ganges to not offer their prayers with complete devotion to the river Ganges.
More info: Things to Do in the City of Ghats - Varanasi
Suggested Tour : 3 Days - Varanasi Tour including Sarnath
15. Golden Temple
Golden Temple also known as Harmandir sahib or Darbar sahib is located in the city of Amritsar, Punjab. Amritsar literally means the tank of nectar of Immortality and was founded in 1574, by the fourth sikh guru, Guru Ram Das. Guru Arjan, the fifth Guru of sikkhs designed golden temple to be built in the centre of this Holy tank. It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs. The extreme beauty of Golden Temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The golden temple looks particularly divine in the evening when it is dazzle up in thousand of bright electrical lights.
Read More : India’s Top 5 Hindu Temples
Suggested Tour : 7 Days - Golden Triangle with Golden Temple Tour
16. Mumbai – The City of Dreams
When it comes to sightseeing, foreign tourists stick with iconic attractions like Elephanta Caves, Gateway of India, Haji Ali Dargah, Prince of Wales Museum, Dharavi Slums, and others. Bandra Fair of September attractions numerous foreign tourists to Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount. Culturally-interested tourists visit Prithvi Theatre to enjoy plays and performances.
There are numerous markets to enjoy shopping in Mumbai. Foreign tourists stick with iconic souvenirs for shopping and try to enjoy the street food of Mumbai. For most of the foreigners, the street food of Mumbai is quite spicy and hot. So, request for a milder variety.
Some foreign tourists prefer to visit temples to witness religious rituals and colourful festivals. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival is the most enjoyed festival among foreign travelers. Bollywood City tour is also gaining more popularity among foreign travelers.
17. Goa - The State of Beaches
Goa, tucked neatly into the western coast of India, popular throughout the country for its beautiful beaches. You explore north of the city or go south in the city; you will find beaches characteristically different from one another.
Read more: Famous Beaches in Goa
20 Amazing Things to do in Goa Trip
Suggested Tour : Beach Tour of Goa for 4 Days
18. Hampi – Explore The Ruins Of A Bygone Majestic Era
Foreign travelers love to explore the ruins and temples of the Vijayanagar Empire in Hampi. Some of the top sights to enjoy here are Vijaya Vittala temple, Sri Virupaksha temple, Queen’s Bath, Hampi bazaar, Lakshmi Narasimha temple, and others. Apart from these ruins, Hampi is also famous for photography, mountaineering, and exploration.
A little away from the ruins of the bygone era, tourists love to visit Hippie Island, Tungabhadra tank, Matanga Hill, and others. Tourists visit Hampi during the Hampi festival to enjoy rituals and cultural celebrations. Luxury loving foreign traveler choose Golden Chariot train to cover Hampi along with other important attractions of Southern India.
Suggested Tour :
19. Munnar – A Tea-Infused Tourism
Tea tourism is getting more famous among avid foreign travelers in Munnar. However, young travelers prefer staying in tree houses. Apart from tea estate activities, Munnar is famous for other outdoor activities like camping, trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, speedboat riding, and others.
If you are a wildlife lover, visit Eravikulam National Park, Carmela giri elephant park, Blossom international park, and others. Among all the traditional and modern ayurvedic massages, the Shirodhara or deep-tissue massage is quite famous among foreign travelers.
Romantic honeymoon travelers love Shikara ride on Kundala Lake, stroll through the rose garden, waterfalls picnic, and others. Culture lovers love to watch kalariyattam, traditional dance or music performances, souvenir shopping, church hopping, and others.
Also Read : Top Ten Hill Stations of Kerala
Munnar Travel Guide
Suggested Tour :
20. Mysore– A Modern Vacation Spot
Mysore provides grandeur to your tour with Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Jaganmohan Palace, Lalitha Mahal Palace, and others. Wildlife-loving foreigner prefers to enjoy Mysore zoo, Bandipur national park, Bonsai Garden, ShukaVana, and others.
Mostly, foreign tourists visit Mysore during the Dusshera festival. If you miss the festival, you can enjoy the cultural activities at any cultural center. If you have more time allocated for Mysore, take a weekend getaway to enjoy destinations like Srirangpatna, Somnath, and others.
Also Read : Top 10 Famous Temples of South India
There are numerous museums, temples, and a silk-weaving factory to enjoy the heritage and culture of the land. If you are an adventure lover, there are numerous walking trails and trekking routes in and around Mysore. The cuisine of the land is also a hit among international travelers. There are numerous night trekking routes around Mysore. However, if you are looking for more entertaining nightlife, you can find pubs, bars, and others. Most of these places close by 11 pm, so plan accordingly.
Suggested Tour :
- 1 Day - Private Mysore Tour with Visit to Srirangapatna
- Mysore City Guided Full Day Tour
- 3 Days - Karnataka Tour
21. Bandipur National Park - A Vacation In Western Ghats
Indian wildlife beauty easily mesmerizes foreign travelers. Travelers explore the park to spot many animals and birds in mini-bus, jeep, or elephant. It takes one to two hours to explore the park. Thus plan accordingly. The safari cost for foreigners is different than the locals. Surf for the updated cost of the safari, and other activities before you plan your vacation. Ooty (important honeymoon destination) is just an hour away from Bandipur National Park. Tourists sometimes prefer clubbing Bandipur with Ooty for a weekend getaway.
Also Read : 10 Best Wildlife Safaris in South India
Suggested Tour : 14 Days - Kerala Wildlife Tour (Periyar, Bandipur)
22. Chennai- Enjoy The Culture Of Tamil Nadu At One Place
Marina Beach and Mahabalipuram (a little away from Chennai) are the two main attractions preferred by foreign tourists in Chennai. Apart from these, there are temples, malls, shopping streets, and museums to enjoy.
International tourists prefer to visit Chennai during any festival like Pongal of January, Madras Music Season (five weeks in December and January), Mylapore Festival, and others.
One major element that foreigners consider missing in Chennai is nightlife. There are a few pubs and discos but they are on the outskirts of Chennai. If you can extend your time in Tamil Nadu, avid foreign travelers recommend the Tamil Nadu Golden Triangle (Chennai, Mahabalipuram, and Kanchipuram). The cuisine of Tamil Nadu is best enjoyed in Chennai.
Also Read : Top Places to Visit in Chennai – The Capital of Tamilnadu
Suggested Tour :
23. Thekkady – Enjoy A Vacation With Elephants
Why do foreigners love Kerala? Ayurvedic treatments and elephants of Kerala are the iconic attractions in the eyes of a foreigner. Thekkady has both in abundance. It has numerous foreign tourists every year that the shops around the region are customized to sell souvenirs that are attractive to foreigners. Periyar Tiger Sanctuary is the most common attraction for many foreigners. They enjoy boating, river rafting, wildlife exploration, night patrol boating, trekking, and other activities in the sanctuary.
Elephant Junction is the next best attraction where tourists can bathe, feed and play with elephants. Other important attractions of Thekkady are Murikkady, spice plantations, Spring valley mountain, Vandiperiyar, Kumily, kalari performance, Ayurvedic treatment center, and others.
Also Read : Top Tourist Attractions in and Around Thekkady, Kerala
Suggested Tour
24. Ooty – Enjoy The Iconic Nilgiri Toy Train
Among the numerous natural and man-made attractions, the toy train of the Nilgiri mountain region is quite famous. Plantations, boating activities, outdoor activities, and shopping are the main attractions of Ooty.
Usually, foreigners tend to visit Ooty during peak summer to enjoy the rose exhibition, dog show, and others. Summer is the most colorful time in Ooty. The foreigners from the cold western world visit Ooty to enjoy a milder winter. Home-made chocolate of Ooty is a famous snack for foreigners in this hill station.
Ooty is also the right destination for honeymooners and adventure lovers. While honeymooners relish in nature activities, the adventure lovers have a long list of attractions and activities to enjoy like trekking, mountain biking, camping, angling, horse riding, hand gliding, and others.
Get Complete Guide : About Ooty – The Uncrowned Queen Of Hill Stations
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25. Kerala - An Ayurveda Destination
Kerala is perhaps most well known for its pristine and untouched backwaters. Kerala is visited by tourists to enjoy the serenity, peace and aquatic life of its extremely well known backwaters. It is a perfect destination to enjoy its tranquil beauty and clean scenic beaches. It is rightly said that your exploration of India is incomplete without visiting ‘God’s Own Country’. In addition to its pleasing green lands and a huge coastline, Kerala is blessed with mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, rivers and peaceful backwaters.
A trip in a houseboat along the Kerala backwaters is said to be very relaxing. The lush green landscape, diverse wildlife, houses and villages along the backwaters make a journey seem like a journey to another world. Freshly cooked Indian food on the boat make the experience even more enjoyable. Don't miss it!
Also Read: Top 5 Backwaters of Kerala that you should not miss
Suggested Tour : Kerala Backwaters Tour Package for 5 Days
There is an old saying in India, "AthithiDevoBhava", which means "the guest is God". Indians welcome guests in their home, treat them as god by going out of their way to make their guest’s stay comfortable and delightful. Nothing can beat the Indian hospitality. Visit India and experience the vast cultural diversities and some of the world’s most scenic nature.
Also Read :
Popular Tour Packages to Explore India :
- 10 Days - Rajasthan Tour With Taj Mahal
- 10 Days - South India Tour with Goa
- 10 Days - Best of Kerala Tour
- 10 Days - Trip To Ladakh
- 10 Days - Golden Triangle with North India Temple
If you are Looking for Tour Packages according to your Interest :
