When we talk about perfect holiday destinations, India can delight you in more ways than you can imagine. From trails of architectural pasts to the tranquillity that valleys offer, turquoise sea waters or wildlife experiences – India has got it all.
Plan your trip according to the month and season and get ready for a travel-packed year. Here’s our list of the top destinations that you must visit this year:
January – Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary
At Asia’s largest salt-water lagoon in Odisha, the migratory birds arrive at their wintering ground in January. This is a perfect weekend getaway if you want to spot flamingos and Irrawaddy dolphins and spend some time amidst nature.
How to get there: Bhubhaneshwar Airport is the closest airport, 95 kms away.
February – Nashik Sula Fest
Why not start the month with a dose of fun, food, fashion, wine and music. Yes, plan a trip to Nashik for a great weekend as the town would be hosting the Sula Fest. The Fest would witness music performances by internationally-acclaimed artists, a camp site and amazing food wine.
How to get there: The nearest airports are at Mumbai and Pune
March – Holi at Vrindavan
Vrindavan is the playground of Krishna and what’s better than celebrating the festival of colours at this very destination. While in Vrindavan, also visit the surrounding towns and experience one of the best heritage tours in India.
How to get there: The nearest train station is at Mathura Cantt.
April –Tulip Festival, Srinagar
Set amidst mystical woods and hills and dotted with shimmering lakes, Srinagar is a paradise for honeymooners. In April, Srinagar witnesses South Asia’s biggest Tulip festival at Siraj Bagh Chesmahsahi. During this time, flowers are in full bloom and the festival reflects the exquisiteness of Srinagar. When in Srinagar, don’t forget to visit the immaculate Dal Lake.
How to get there: Srinagar has an airport which is well-connected to all major airports in India.
May – Kasol
Summer is the best time to visit this incredible hill town in Himachal Pradesh. The hill town of Kasol and the entire Parvati Valley is thronged by travellers during this time. When in Kasol, go for a hike around this town leading to Kheerganga, Malana and Rasol, and experience the scenic beauty that Kasol is.
How to get there: Bhuntar is the nearest airport, about 30 km away. Buses are available from all the major cities to Kasol.
June – Gangtok
Mesmerizing waterfalls, Buddhist monasteries, snow-capped mountains, and wildlife sanctuaries make this northeast town, a prime destination. Travellers vouch for Gangtok as being one of the most serene and humbling choices for a peaceful family vacation. During summer, the weather is pleasant and it’s the best time to plan a trip.
How to get there: The nearest airport is in Bagdogra in West Bengal, around 124 km away.
July – Orchha
Visit Orchha to get a glimpse of history, art and culture. A hidden heritage in Madhya Pradesh, Orchha boasts of ancient temples and palaces around the city such as Raja Ram Temple, Jahangir Mahal and Rai Praveen Mahal.
How to get there: Jhansi is the nearest railway station and Gwalior serves as the nearest airport to Orchha.
August – Spiti Valley
This Himalayan desert is one of the most beautiful destinations. Take the road trip of a lifetime to the district of Lahaul and Spiti and also explore Manali, Chandrataal, Kee, Kibber, Komic, Tabo and Nako, on the way.
How to get there: Spiti Valley is well connected by road. Frequent buses ply to the destination from from New Delhi.
September – Andaman & Nicobar Island
The silver sandy virgin beaches in Andaman are a sight to behold. Andaman Islands are heaven for water sports lovers, and it attracts tourists from not just India but over the world. The paragon of beauty also present landscape, dense forest, best wildlife, tribal tour, and it holds a unique identity, unlike any other place in India.
How to get there: Veer Savarkar International Airport also known as Port Blair Airport, is a customs airport located 2 km south of Port Blair and is the main airport for Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
October – Kaas Plateau
Kaas Plateau boasts of a pride of place in the list of UNESCO World Heritage site. This mini valley of flowers in Maharashtra is a humbling choice for a getaway after the rains are over. Here you can observe hundreds of species of flowers.
How to get there: Nearest airport is Mumbai. There are frequent buses from all major cities in Maharashtra.
November – Taj Mahal, Agra
Agra is popular for its prized possession – the Taj Mahal, one among the Seven Wonders of the World. People from across the world visit this magnificent town to get a glimpse of the Taj Mahal and also, the Agra Fort, an integral part of the British history of India.
How to get there: Agra has an airport. There are frequent buses from Delhi as well.
December – Varkala
The perfect way to end the year is to head to the beaches. Varkala is a quieter beach destination, which has now become a major tourist hub in India. When in Varkala, spend some sun-and-sand-time at Varkala Beach or Thiruvambadi Beach.
How to get there:The nearest airport to Varkala is the Thiruvanthapuram Airport, 36 km away.
One mind, many shades! She is a former journalist; currently, a blogger, traveller, social media manager, aspiring author and a fitness enthusiast. When not working, she loves indulging in music, Netflix and books. Green tea, a notebook, and a pen is all she needs to conquer the world; however some wine and nachos wouldn’t hurt.