The 15 best places to visit in India

It's impossible to talk about India without mentioning its most famous site, the Taj Mahal. Literally meaning “Palace of Crowns”, this temple dedicated to love and is located 120 miles southeast of Delhi in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Although it's not the nicest city to stay in, Agra used to be the capital of the Mughal Empire and is now home to some of History's most precious jewels. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, this white marble mausoleum was designed in honour of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The best way to avoid the masses of crowds is to visit early in the morning, at sunrise. Bear in mind that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. The city also has a number of other places of interest to visit, including Agra Fort. Built on the western bank of the Yamuna, this majestic red sandstone fort, constructed by Emperor Akbar offers a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal.

Located in northern India, in the state of Punjab, the Golden Temple of Amritsar is the most sacred shrine of the Sikh community. This gurdwara made of gold and marble attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Sikhs, Muslims, Hindus and tourists are all enchanted by the spirituality of this place of worship and sacred songs echo while one walks around the marble corridors. Entirely decorated in gold leaf, this multi-storey structure is home to the Sikh holy book and the surrounding buildings include offices and libraries. As Sikh tradition requires, the gurdwara is open 24/7 with dormitories and a canteen that provide free food and shelter to all. Admire the Golden Temple in the evening, when it's lit up with a thousand lights.

Calcutta is often referred to as the intellectual and cultural capital of India. Located in the West Bengal province, the city can sometimes be overwhelming, as often in Indian megalopolises. The city's dynamism, poverty and cheerfulness produce a complex contrast that leaves nobody indifferent. The city centre is designed with colonial-style buildings which give it a unique charm. Visit the main attractions including the Victoria Memorial, Saint Paul's Cathedral, the mythical Howrah bridge and of course Tagore's House. Stroll through the markets and taste some of the Bengali specialties. Calcutta offers a number of voluntary projects and charity work in memory of Mother Teresa.

Have you ever had a good Darjeeling tea? This mountain village built by the British in the 19th century overlooks green valleys and tea plantations. Located in the north east of India, the city of Darjeeling boasts breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including the third highest peak in the world: Kangchenjunga, over 28000 ft! While you're there you can also visit the tea factory in Darjeeling and learn all about this national beverage. Hop aboard UNESCO World Heritage Toy Train and enjoy a scenic ride through the surrounding mountains. There are also a number of Buddhist monasteries to visit.

The capital of India has a bad reputation but if you take the time, you'll find it fascinating in many ways. The ancient Mughal charm of Old Delhi blends with the modern New Delhi, founded by the British in the twentieth century. Visit historical relics like the impressive Jama Masjid Mosque and the Red Fort. Stroll through the bustling bazaars and explore the spice market. At Connaught Place you can go shopping and taste Indian cuisine in one of the capital's many local restaurants. The south of the city attracts tourists that come to visit the magnificent Mughal architecture of Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar or the contemporary Lotus Temple. Delhi's unique character and interesting history is worth a detour.

If paradise had a name, it would surely be Goa! With its lush vegetation, sandy beaches, coconut trees and clear blue waters, Goa has been attracting travellers from around the world for decades. Visit the small but charming state capital, Panaji, and its impressive cathedrals dating back to the 16th and 18th century. Stroll through Old Goa and learn about the Portuguese colonial heritage or head inland to explore the region's many waterfalls, churches, temples and ancient ruins. As everywhere in India, the crowded seaside resorts up north contrast drastically with the wild southern shores. Special mention for Palolem beach which is calm and perfect for families. And don't forget to try local cuisine with a touch of Portuguese flavour.

On the southwestern coast of India, the state of Kerala stretches for nearly 600 km and borders both Karnataka to the north and Tamil Nadu to the east. The region is famous for its backwaters, a large network of canals linking lakes and lagoons. Discover the surrounding mountains covered with acres of tea and spices or enjoy a unique ayurvedic massage. Far from the frenzy of the larger cities, a trip to Kerala rhymes with peace and rest. Spend a night on a typical houseboat on the backwaters or take a small cruise boat and adventure into the heart of this natural environment. Follow the Spice Route and discover Kochi, a major port city influenced by European culture. Stroll through the old town with its many shops and restaurants or catch a show at the Kathakali theatre. You can also head to the sea and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Cherrai, Marari or Varkala.

In the vast central state of Madhya Pradesh, the village of Khajuraho is home to India's most famous temples. The ancient temples fascinate all those who come to admire them and represent some of the finest works of Indian art. Dating back to the Chandela dynasty back in the 10th and 12th centuries, the intricate sculptures of the façades depict erotic scenes from Indian mythology, inspired by the Kama Sutra. Attend the annual festival of classical dance that takes place in Khajuraho centre or explore the countryside surroundings by bike. You can also discover the Panna Tiger Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary crossed by the Ken River, located a few miles from the city.

Ladakh, “the Land of High Passes”, is located in the far north of India and is either reached by plane or by land, if the roads via Manali and Srinagar are open. Set in the heart of this stunning mineral landscape is the city of Leh, perched at 11000 ft. Sheltered by the Himalayan barrier, Ladakh is one of the few areas in Asia that offers a pleasant and dry climate during the summer. This Indian Himalayan Region is less known by tourists but offers plenty of treks through different valleys including Indus, Zanskar and Markha. Ladakh is also a great cultural spot where you can learn about monasteries and the Tibetan monks. Nicknamed Little Tibet, this region will delight all travellers looking to explore the great outdoors.

Discover South India and the region of Tamil Nadu. At the heart of Tamil culture, the great city of Madurai attracts hundreds of pilgrims each year. Discover the Sri Meenakshi Temple and learn about the religious culture of this spectacular temple that is dedicated to Meenakshi, avatar of the goddess Parvati and her husband Shiva. Surrounded by gopurams, monumental towers typical of Dravidian architecture, these pyramid structures are designed with intricate sculptures of Indian gods and goddesses. One can easily lose track of time observing the details of their fascinating facades.

Bombay, renamed Mumbai, is the Indian capital of finance and business and is located in the state of Maharashtra. Halfway between the north and the south of India, this city is more cosmopolitan than Delhi or Calcutta. Bursting with energy, this urban landscape is a contrast of crowded trains, acres of slums, bustling bazaars and modern skyscrapers. Bombay is mostly known for its film industry and Bollywood studios. Try and find accommodation in the Colaba district where most of the main attractions are. Admire the architecture in Victoria Station, enjoy a drink at the Taj Mahal Palace or watch the sunset along the coast on Marine Drive.

Nicknamed the “7 Sisters”, these seven states, located Northeast India are often left out by tourists: Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura. Close to the Burmese border, this tribal area is different in many ways: language, lifestyle, costumes, crafts and cuisine. Some places are better known then others such as the tea plantations in Assam or the Kaziranga National Park. This natural reserve is home to elephants, tigers, various species of birds and the largest population of single-horned rhinos in the world. Bordered by the kingdom of Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh is renowned for its Himalayan peaks as well as the Tawang Monastery. The unique wilderness of Meghalaya is one of India's best-kept secrets along with the Living Root Bridges in Cherrapunjee or Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia. Nagaland is popular with travellers for the annual Hornbill Festival that takes place in December.

On the south-east coast of India, about 100 miles south of Chennai, discover the city of Pondicherry otherwise known as Puducherry or Pondy. Take a stroll in the “White town” and discover the local vibe, a blend of French-Indian heritage with little cafés and cobbled streets. Don't forget to visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and meet the spiritual master. Walk down to the promenade and mix among locals while enjoying an ice cream at sunset.

Rajasthan attracts many travellers seeking to learn more about the tales and legends of the Rajput rulers. An unusual charm lies in the mythical cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer which all share a rich history and culture. Discovering the cities of Rajasthan is the perfect opportunity to encounter locals or haggle in the street markets. Jodhpur is a personal favourite; this blue city is home to the beautiful Mehrangarh Fort that overlooks the city. As for the surrounding environment, the land of the Maharajas is extremely diverse with various natural landscapes including the Aravellis mountains, the savannah in Ranthambore and the Thar desert. Head to the countryside and discover the remote villages where you will encounter locals and experience the Indian lifestyle.

Varanasi, otherwise known as Benares, lies on the bank of the Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is the heart of Hindu culture. Here, each person believes in karma and that their next life depends on how they behave in the present life. To break away from the cycle of reincarnation and access nirvana, one must first be cremated on the banks of the sacred river. The holy city of Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world and has been inhabited for more than 4000 years. Lose yourself in the midst of the busy marketplace or in the labyrinth of back alleys and taste a chai tea with sweet milk. Dawn or sunset are perfect moments for taking a boat out onto the Ganges. Stroll alongside the river or down the ghats, those huge riverfront steps that lead down to the banks. Ceremonies take place every day to celebrate and pray to Ganga, the goddess of the river accompanied by mesmerizing music.