Tourism

About India

Tourism in India has shown a phenomenal growth in the past decade. One of the reasons is that the Ministry of tourism, India has realized the immense potential of tourism in India during vacations. India travel tourism has grown rapidly with a great influx of tourists from all across the globe who have been irresistibly attracted to the rich culture, heritage, and incredible natural beauty of India. India tourism with its foggy hill stations, captivating beaches, historical monuments, golden deserts, serene backwaters, pilgrimage sites, rich wildlife, and colourful fairs capture the heart of every tourist. In addition, a variety of festivals, lively markets, vibrant lifestyle, and traditional Indian hospitality, will make your experience as an india tourist truly unforgettable and fantastic. Travel through the lovely Indian states and discover closely the resplendent colors and rich cultural locales of this incredible land. Our India tourism guide provides you a glimpse of travel and tourism in india ,india tourism information about south india tourism, north India tourism, and all the major tourist destinations, and tourism services of India.

Country Info

  • Currency : Indian rupee (Rs.)
  • Population : 1.252 billion
  • Time Zone : UTC+05:30
  • Area : 3.287 million km2
  • Capital : New Delhi
  • Official Language : Hindi, English
  • Capital’s calling code:+91

Regions in India for Tourism

About North India

Endowed with diverse topography, climatic conditions, and cultural beliefs, North India covers an area of about 1,420,540 sq km. Its dominant geographical features include the Himalayas to its north, the Thar Desert to its west and the Indo-Gangetic plains that span the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. The region shares its borders with China, Nepal, Bhutan and Pakistan. It boasts some of the largest glaciers, sub-tropical forests, wildlife reserves and archaeological treasures.

In North India, history blends beautifully with culture and religion. The holiest pilgrimage centres of Hindus, the most sacred Buddhist monasteries, revered Sikh Gurudwaras and Islamic mosques co-exist with complete harmony in the region. The northern part of India is also privileged to be home to the largest mosque in India – Jama Masjid, situated in Delhi and the largest Sikh shrine – The Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. One of the oldest inhabited cities of the world – Varanasi, also lies in the region on the banks of Ganga river.

In terms of architectural wonders, North India takes pride in being home to one of the wonders of the world – The Taj Mahal in Agra. Also, the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur and City Palace in Udaipur encapsulates the grandeur and royalty that the region enjoyed. For natural wonders and trekking trails, the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand and Jammu & Kashmir are famous. The hill towns of Shimla, Nainital, Dharamshala and Dalhousie see major influx of tourists. Not to miss, the snow-clad mountains of Kashmir, the world’s highest motorable pass and highest salt water lake in Ladakh.

With a population of 543 million, over two dozen linguistic groups thrive in the northern region. Thus, the variations in Hindi dialects are prominently noticed on crossing regional boundaries. Apart from Hindi, different forms of Rajasthani, Pahadi, Awadhi, Punjabi, Bihari, and Kashmiri languages are spoken in the region.

The diversity of North India adds a dash of colour and vitality to the clothing patterns and culinary circuits. In Punjab and Rajasthan, spicy cuisines and embellished clothing is embraced. However, Himachal Pradesh and Uttrakhand largely have herb-based curries and sport a rather simple attire. The Union Territories of Delhi and Chandigarh blend western cuisines and attire with traditional culture, displaying a perfect cosmopolitan look.

North India is like a colour palette of an artist, that would beautifully paint the canvas with the green of the farms and valleys, the brown of the mountains and deserts, the white of the snow to the blue of rivers perfectly.

About South India

Located in the Peninsular Deccan Plateau, bordered by the Arabian Sea, South India includes the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats. The region spreads over an area of 635,780 Sq Km and comprises the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry.
It also covers the verdant Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Karnataka is a coastal belt rich with Hindu traditions and natural beauty. It is home to forests like Bandipur and Nagarhole. The most famous hill station in the state is Coorg where aromatic spices and coffee plantations charm tourists immensely.
On the other hand, Bengaluru – the IT hub of the state presents a perfect blend of software and sarees, bookshops and bars, tradition and modernity, and everything in between.
Just below Karnataka lies Tamil Nadu – that boasts many mesmerising sculptures and temple architecture of Chola Tanjore at Chidambaram. Another city of this state that takes pride in its creative history is Madhurai. You can still hear of the legendary sangrams between poets and writers that took place here almost 2000 years ago. The most magnificent city in Tamil Nadu that would charm you with its Carnatic music and age-old traditions is Chennai. Though, over the years, it has acquired a cosmopolitan glamour with contemporary restaurants and swanky night clubs, the temples, museums and other monuments of the city are worth exploring.
Southern India has one of India’s most visited pilgrimage spots. The prominent one being the Balaji Temple at Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. Also, the ancient Buddhist site of Nagarjunakonda, and the wonderful Islamic buildings of the Qutub Shahi and Asaf Jahi dynasties at Golconda Fort and Hyderabad reside here.
However, a strikingly different picture is portrayed by the most loved tourist locales of Kerala and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Being a symphony of evergreen forests, paddy fields, coconut palms and plantations, Kerala is a lovely world of backwaters that make for a perfect honeymoon destination. Here, Ayurvedic massages, houseboat cruises, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage zones and its local cuisine overwhelm you. And, those seeking pristine blue waters can hit the silver soft beaches and lush greenery of Andaman and Nicobar, that are the last remaining virgin rainforest islands in the world.
Not to miss, Lakshadweep, an archipelago of 36 attols in the south-western coast of India that has many uninhabited and untrodden islands that are even more mesmerising. With a population of over 253 million, South India has managed to blend the cuisine and culture of its diverse ethnic groups well. The variations of its dosa, sambhar, idlis and vadas have reached the far stretches of North and West regions. Known for its fresh seafood and coconut oil, it dishes out amazing chutneys and meat curries as well. Not to miss, the popular dance forms of Bharat Natyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathakali that found their origin in this artistically rich and prospering region.

About West India

The language, culture, and levels of economic development of West India greatly differ from other Indian regions. Comprising the states of Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat; it also has union territories of Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli under its ambit. Spanning over an area of 508,052 Sq Km, the western states offer innumerable destinations to tourists of distinct tastes.

Between its Portuguese past and fishing village feel, world famous beaches and ancient temples, the paddy fields and plantations; Goa has something for everyone. Portuguese left their mark on the language, culture, cuisine, music and heritage of this coastal state. Tourism gave birth to water sports whereas migrants brought alternative ways of life along with beer. While the Goan resident remains laidback and easy, they are also well known for hospitable nature.

Another state boasting a long coastline is Gujarat that seems to project out into the Arabian Sea. Its northern region – Kutch, with its distinct pastoral communities and exquisite crafts, is a salty desert-cum-marshland. The coast cradles the old port-town of Mandvi and constitutes the revered temples of Somnath and Dwarka. Gir National Park in Gujarat is a major tourist hot-spot because Asiatic Lions can only survive here. The most industrialised state in West India, Ahmedabad and Surat are business hubs with a large presence in textiles and petrochemicals.

In West India, Maharashtra is the state that houses the only city for which the word ‘megalopolis’ is used in the country – Mumbai. Known as the maximum city, it is the financial, film and fun capital of India. On its waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch. The Chowpatty, Marine Drive, Juhu Beach and Victoria Terminus are other touristy hotspots here. You also find Maratha Forts in Raigad, and the World Heritage frescoes of the rock-cut Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad, that entice tourists globally. Many beautiful hill stations like Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, Khandala and Matheran serve as cool green retreats with abundant adventurous trails and thrilling activities in Maharashtra.

Wedged between Maharashtra and Gujarat is Dadra and Nagar Haveli – another union territory which is replete with mesmerising mountain ranges, meandering rivers and lush green forests.

Having a population of over 147 million, the western region boasts distinctive cuisines as well. From bland to fiery hot, you find a range of delicacies. Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, and Poha are popular street side munchies in Maharashtra. Gujarat is an alcohol-free state with predominantly vegetarian cuisine and its well-known Gujarati thali has a distinct flavour. The party lovers of Gujarat find solace in Daman and Diu, on the beaches of which alcohol flows freely. The real party destination of all of India however is Goa, where beer and wine come in large variations, and seafood is a staple.

West India is a magnificent kaleidoscope of cultures where distinct religions, traditions, and lifestyles mingle to thrive and prosper.

About East India

The ruling ground of many ancient empires, East India has a strong ethnic culture and religious roots. Comprising the easternmost cities namely Odisha, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. It spans over a total area of about 418,323 Sq Km wherein the bulk of the region is either near the Bay of Bengal or on the Indo-Gangetic plains.

Kolkata, known as the Cultural Capital of India, is the largest city of East Indian region. Located in the state of West Bengal, it boasts 19th-century architectural marvels such as Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge. The narrow alleyways and markets blend well with the ancient temples, science centers, and educational institutions giving Kolkata a metropolitan character. West Bengal is also famous for its beautiful hill stations – Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Kalimpong. The tea gardens and toy train bring an old-world charm to Darjeeling, whereas Siliguri has wildlife sanctuaries and rivers for a perfect getaway. Adventure thirsty tourists are often seen trekking the trails of Kalimpong or enjoying rafting in its cold river waters.

In East India, Odisha is a state that displays innate architectural prowess. The Sun Temple in Konark and the ancient Jagannath Temple in Puri are fine examples of it. Various unspoiled beaches and caves are also found here. Bihar and Jharkhand, though underrated, have many tourist attractions. Bodhgaya is the birthplace of Buddhism whereas Rajgir is known for its hot water springs. In Ranchi, you find numerous picturesque waterfalls. Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is a small town surrounded by beautiful high altitude lakes. In this state, various wildlife reserves thrive as well.

With a population of over 226 million, Bengali is a dominant language in West Bengal and most parts of East India. Bhojpuri is spoken in Bihar and Jharkhand whereas Odia is the local language of Odisha. Also, in terms of food, each state of Eastern India has its rich delicacies soaked in traditional herbs and spices. Bengali fish and Rasagola lure you in Kolkata while Chhena Gaja and Rasmalai are lip-smacking dishes of Odisha. The Tibetan food in Darjeeling and Arunachal Pradesh is infused with local herbs lending it a distinct flavour.

Adding to the vibrant culture of East India are various dance, music and art forms. From Sambalpuri dance to Rabindra Sangeet and Madhubani paintings, the creative diaspora of the region has left its mesmerizing effect on people worldwide.

About Central India

    The Central region of India gives you a peek into the splendid wildlife, rich heritage and architectural splendours of the country. Covering the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh, Central India spreads over an area of 443, 439 Sq Km. These contiguous states hold enough pilgrimage spots, wildlife sanctuaries, ancient monuments, mountain ranges and remote forests to attract travellers of different tastes. At the heart of India, in Madhya Pradesh, lies Narmada river with two hill ranges – the Vindhya and the Satpura. It is also an intriguing landscape of plateaus, rivers valleys, rolling hills and forests. From the prehistoric site of Bhimbetka to ancient Hindu and Buddhist monuments at Khajuraho, Orchha, and Sanchi, the finest of ancient civilisation is found here.
     For wildlife lovers, the tiger-rich forests of Bandhavgarh and Kanha are a major attraction. The region also encapsulates the hilly town of Mandu and the contemplative towns of Maheshwar, Omkareshwar and Amarkantak by the Narmada. In Chhattisgarh, a large part of the population is tribal. Over 40 percent of the state is covered under forest, or is noted for its mineral wealth. The main attractions here include no less than three national parks and 11 wildlife sanctuaries. Raipur, Bilaspur, and Jagdalpur are the main hubs for tourists providing a wealth of fabulous temples, royal palaces, Buddhist monuments and natural wonders to explore.
      Central India is undoubtedly the Hindi heartland of the country. Various dialects of Hindi such as Bundeli, Malvi, Nimadi, and Bagheli are spoken here followed by Dakshin Kosali and some tribal languages. It also imbibes the best of food culture from its neighbouring states. The cuisine here is a mix of sweet and salty. You can enjoy a variety of dishes from mild to very spicy ones. Wheat, rice, jowar, bajra, and lentils are staples in the diet. Though variations can be seen as you move from one town to another. Bhutte ki Khees, Dal Bafla, Poha, Jalebi and Khurma attract travellers from far and wide. Not to miss, the amazing Dal Pithi, Chila and Kadi Pakora! Blending the best of cultures, Central India boasts many folk dances, art and music forms as well. Jawara dance and classical music from the region is prevalent in various other Indian states too. This region creates a colourful amalgamation of culture, cuisine, trade and tradition. And, it certainly gives you the glimpse of splendour that the rich heritage of India offers.

About North East India

The ‘North-East’ is a collective name for the easternmost part of India comprising the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur. Obscured from the greater world by dense forests and formidable mountains, North-East India shares its borders with Bhutan, Myanmar, Tibet, and Bangladesh. It spreads over an area of over 262,230 Sq Km, and holds immense beauty as most of its hill towns are still untravelled.

Assam is the most developed and accessible state in this relatively isolated region. It lies just south of the Eastern Himalaya with Brahmaputra River making it rich with paddy fields. Tea plantations proliferate around towns like Jorhat. North-East India’s biggest city, Guwahati, is the best hub for journeys into other North-Eastern states like Arunachal Pradesh or Meghalaya. Majuli in Assam, one of the largest riverine islands in the world, is a centre of unique Vaishnava traditions while Kaziranga National Park is home to the endangered one-horned Rhinos.

In North-East, the tiny mountainous state of Sikkim seems close to heaven. Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis live here, close to one of the highest peaks in the world – Kangchendzonga. At Sikkim, you find stunning lakes like Tsomgo and Gurudongmar. Charming Gangtok and the adventurous Nathu La pass at the China border draw tourists from afar. Another touristy attraction in the region is Manipur. It is a pretty oval valley surrounded by low hills. Its capital, Imphal, stands out for its feisty women weavers, potters and traders. Loktak Lake, the largest lake of North-East lies here, hosting floating islands and Sangai deer. Moirang, Bishnupur, and Ukhrul are other touristy places.

The people of North-East India have historically had close ethnic and cultural bonds with Tibet, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Thus, you see the prevalence of Tibeto-Burmese languages in many towns. Assamese, Nagamese, Nefamese, Manipuri, Nepali, Tripuri, Khasi, and Sylheti are popular languages here amongst an astounding 220 languages spoken in the region. Apart from its exciting mélange of cultures, North-East has some distinctive culinary treats to offer. From the pork chops of Nagaland to wild red rice of Mizoram and Tenga fish of Assam, the diversity in flavours can overpower your senses. Not to miss, the Jadoh and Tungtap of Meghalaya that makes an impeccable food combination.