If there is one country that makes it to almost every list of best countries in the world to visit, it has to be India. A land of mesmerising landscapes, vibrant cultures, diverse cuisines, and fascinating heritage, India is a treasure trove for travelers seeking unique experiences.
Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, cities in India promise a truckload of unforgettable memories. Accessibility to modern transport, clean and comfortable hotels, and the warm, welcoming nature of its people make India a top choice for travelers from around the globe. Let's dive into India’s popular cities and what truly makes them special!
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The Garden City of India, Bangalore, is a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers. Nature lovers can revel in the city's beautiful spots: Bannerghatta National Park, where you can spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and lions on a safari; Nandi Hills, a popular hangout for youngsters and photographers with its enchanting panoramic views; and the sprawling Lalbagh Botanical Gardens and Cubbon Park, local favourites.
Bengaluru, known as the Silicon Valley of India, boasts several historical monuments. Don't miss the grand Vidhana Soudha, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and the Government Museum.
For thrill-seekers, Bengaluru houses one of India's largest amusement parks, WonderLa. It features heart-pounding rides like Recoil, Flash Tower, and Drop Zone, along with exciting water rides.
As an ardent Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fan, I highly recommend watching an Indian Premier League (IPL) at Chinnaswamy Stadium. The atmosphere is electrifying, and the continuous chants of “Aaar Cee Beee” will make you root for the team, even if you don’t know much about the sport.
With a significant Muslim population, halal eateries and mosques are abundant in every corner of Bengaluru. Localities Ayesha Ayub Musba and Dawood Kazia suggest restaurants to try along with their best dishes: Meghana for lip-smacking biryani, Albert Bakery for melt-in-mouth Khoa naan and mutton samosa, Siddique Kabab Centre for amazing sheek rolls, MTR and Central Tiffin Room for masala dosa, Broast Khan for crispy broast, and Beijing Bites for budget-friendly Chinese dishes.
There can never be a boring day in the City of Dreams—loud, chaotic, majestic, and full of life! Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is a bustling metropolis that serves as the financial powerhouse and entertainment capital of India. Home to iconic landmarks and sun-scorched beaches, this vibrant city has it all.
No trip to Mumbai is complete without visiting the Gateway of India, Hanging Gardens, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Film City, and the moon-shaped Marine Drive.
If you are a shopaholic, you have an array of options: Colaba Causeway, Fashion Road, Chor Bazar, Crawford Market, and Hill Road. For high-end shopping, explore Jio World Plaza, Phoenix Market City, and Oberoi Mall.
Mumbai is well-known for its food scene; be sure to try the fiery vada pav and classic Bombay sandwich, available on nearly every corner. Don’t miss the legendary chaats around Juhu Beach and the flavorful kebabs at Mohammed Ali Road, especially during Ramadan when the area transforms into a culinary paradise. Savour the famous Irani chai and bun maska at Kyani & Co. And for dessert, delectable kulfi at Badshah Cold Drink and an array of sweets at Mithiya are a must. In this city that never sleeps, every moment is a memory in the making.
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the cultural capital and largest city of southern India. Steeped in history, Chennai was once a prominent seaport for the East India Company and is now a vibrant metropolis.
The city is renowned for its places of worship, including the Wallajah Mosque, Santhome Church, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Other top attractions include the elegant St. George Fort, the expansive Marina Beach, and the National Art Gallery. If you love admiring old-style buildings, the stunning architecture of Madras High Court, one of the biggest judicial buildings in the world, will not disappoint.
To truly appreciate the beauty of Chennai, visit between September and February, when the weather is pleasant. The summer months can be unbearably hot. For a touch of old-world charm, take a short trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can marvel at stunning rock carvings and enjoy panoramic views from the lighthouse. Numerous beachside resorts along the Chennai-Mahabalipuram highway offer a relaxing retreat, with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) resort being a popular choice.
Chennai is a food lover’s paradise. Murugan Idli is a top pick for authentic South Indian cuisine, offering delights like masala dosa, pongal, and idli with a variety of chutneys. For aromatic filter coffee, Ratna Cafe is a must-visit. For lunch, mutton biryani and chicken 65 at National Durbar Restaurant in the heart of the city is highly recommended.
If you have time, a quick visit to Pondicherry is worthwhile. This charming town can be explored in half a day, featuring French-style bakeries, scenic beaches, and colourful French colonies. Don’t miss Auroville Bakery and Cafe for delicious croissants with pomelo jam and butter, fudge brownies, and chicken baguettes.
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New Delhi, the capital of India, absolutely deserves a spot on this list—not just because of its status but because it truly is one of the best cities to visit in the country (pollution aside). Delhi buzzes with the vibrant energy of its people, unlike any other city in the world.
Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Mughal Gardens, and Purana Qila are awe-inspiring sights worth a visit. History buffs will enjoy the National Museum's fascinating collection from the Indus Valley Civilization. Test your bargaining skills in Delhi's vibrant markets, with Sarojini Nagar being the top destination for budget-friendly shopping. Spice lovers shouldn't miss Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market, offering an array of spices like turmeric, ginger, tamarind, and chili.
Combine sightseeing and shopping with a culinary adventure at famous halal eateries. Delhi is the king of street food, offering everything from the spicy and tangy flavors of chaat and golgappas to mouth-watering kebabs and parathas. The bustling by-lanes of Chandni Chowk and the cafes of Connaught Place are just a few places where you can indulge in the city's diverse and delicious offerings.
Must-try dishes include Aslam’s butter chicken, piping hot chole bhature at Baba Nagpal Corner, and the perfectly grilled and juicy kebabs at Karim’s and Qureshi Kebab Corner.
Kochi’s waterways have enchanted visitors for centuries, with its lush backwaters, lagoons, and rivers being as alluring today as they were to Arab, Chinese, and European merchants ages ago. This vibrant city, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a top travel destination in India, offering a beguiling mix of natural beauty and historical richness.
Delve into Kochi's diverse heritage as you explore its charming locales. Fort Kochi stands out with its iconic Chinese fishing nets, while the Hill Palace and Jew Street offer glimpses into the city’s varied past. The remnants of Portuguese colonial villas and the fading traces of British influence add to the city’s unique character. For a touch of eco-tourism, visit Kumbalangi, one of India’s pioneering eco-villages, and enjoy the scenic Queen’s Way.
If you’re in the mood for rides, WonderLa is a great option; if you prefer a relaxing time, take a stroll through Subhash Park. As for Kochi’s highlight (besides its natural beauty, of course), don’t miss out on Kerala’s beloved dishes—beef fry and pazham pori—at Sri Muruga Cafe. Other local suggestions include Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe for its biryani, Kadaloram for regional flavors, Hoy Punjab, Al Taza for shawarmas, Arippa, and Cheenavala.
