The Indian subcontinent has a multitude of beautiful and amazing cities, making it a dream destination for any traveller. From cities nestled in the hills to beachside destinations, India offers enough to enthrall guests from across the world. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi, and Jaipur are among the top cities to visit in India, with their mesmerizing natural beauty, amazing architecture, delectable cuisine, and amazingly warm people. With pleasant weather throughout the year, except for the peak summer months of May and June, India is a destination that creates memories of a lifetime.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

The oldest living city in the world, steeped in Hindu religious flavour, is a must-visit. Thriving on India’s rich culture and tradition, Varanasi is known for its ghats (steps along the riverfront), where the action revolves around evening aarti (prayers), and where devotees take a holy bath in the Ganga River. The evening Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat is a spectacular sight to watch, with pandits (monks) in orange robes performing the daily adoration with a multitude of lamps. The holy chant, the crimson flames from the oil lamps, and the magnificent Ganga create a perfect picture of faith, tradition, and culture coming together in excellent unison. Walking along the narrow lanes of Varanasi offers a truly Indian experience, where you can taste local cuisine, visit the many age-old temples, and also shop for the world-famous Banarasi saree.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur, part of the very popular Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur tour), is among the best cities to visit in India. With forts, palaces, and museums showcasing India’s rich heritage, Jaipur is a tapestry of India’s royal past. Climb up to the Amer Fort on an elephant’s back and relive the times of kings and queens. The citadel fort overlooks the entire city while its interior gives you a clear insight into the intense monarchical history. The carved interiors of the fort still have precious stones embedded, giving a glimpse of the amazing craftsmanship of the bygone era.

The Albert Hall Museum, built in the majestic Indo-Saracenic architectural style, is a treasure trove of India’s rich history, showcasing a wide range of weaponry, artifacts, woodcraft, carpets, and more. The Jal Mahal, a floating palace, and the Hawa Mahal, the palace of winds, are all amazing monuments that make your Jaipur journey truly worthwhile. Also, Jaipur is the best place for shopping in India, with a wide range of handcrafted textiles, precious stones, ornaments, leather footwear, and more.

Delhi

The capital city of India, Delhi, is usually the entry point to the subcontinent and is among the best cities to visit in India. With many historical sites dotting the city, Delhi has a fine amalgamation of Mughal, British and modern architecture. From the historic Red Fort built between 1639 and 1648, to the iconic Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, to the magnificent Lutyens’ Delhi, the city will take your breath away. The city is the seat of the country’s political power and houses the parliament of the world’s biggest democracy.

The bylanes of Chandni Chowk, which sells everything from textiles to wonderful brasswares, silver jewelry, stationery, and vintage trinkets, is a great place to experience India at its local best. For the best place to taste local flavours, try the kulfi (ice candy) at the century-old Kuremal Kulfi Wale shop, it’s a must-try. For an amazing north Indian delicacy, visit the famous Karim’s at Chandni Chowk. You can end your Delhi journey with a leisurely dinner at the Bukhara restaurant at ITC Maurya Hotel. Serving delicious Indian fare since 1970, you should try their non-vegetarian delicacies, Dal Makhani, breads, and an amazing selection of Indian desserts.

Kolkata, West Bengal

The capital of British India, Kolkata, situated on the banks of the mesmerizing Hoogly River, offers a glimpse of colonial India. With the Victoria Memorial Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Writer’s Building, and many amazing monuments from the British era still standing tall, the city enthralls its visitors with mesmerizing beauty.

St. Paul’s Cathedral, built in 1847 with its amazing central spire that rises up to 201 feet, is a towering beauty at the centre of the buzzing city. Very close to it is the majestic Victoria Memorial spread across a wide expanse of 64 acres. Originally built as a memorial, the monument is now a magnificent museum that houses many precious treasures from British times. From original paintings and manuscripts to memorabilia of viceroys and governor generals, the museum is among the best places to visit in India. The life-size statue of Queen Victoria at the entrance is a fascinating way to start your Victoria Memorial tour.

Do not forget to treat yourself to the sweet delicacies of Bengal. Experiences like a ferry ride at the mighty Hoogly River, a tram ride, and watching a race at the Turf Club truly make Kolkata the City of Joy.

Mumbai, Maharashtra

The financial capital of India, Mumbai, in more ways than one, reminds us of India’s colonial past. The iconic Shivaji Terminal built more than a century ago, is now the landmark railway station of Mumbai. Originally named Victoria Terminus after the then-reigning empress, the station gives the city a majestic look. An evening spent at the Gateway of India or the famous Chowpatty along the Arabian Sea, watching the sun come down on the distant horizon, can soothe every tired soul.

Mumbai is a fine mix of the old and new. While many tall skyscrapers dot the skyline, there are still many colonial structures and homes that stand tall and proud. You can end your Mumbai sojourn with a quick day trip to the most beautiful Ajanta and Ellora rock-cut caves, which are just a ferry ride away.