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10 Enthralling Places in India That Foreigners Are Crazy About Visiting

By Architi Batra

Updated - Oct. 25, 2019 13 min read

INDIA! A land with much geographical, cultural and climatic diversity makes for an amazing tourist destination. From mighty mountains in the North to Pristine beaches in the South, from arid sandy lands in the West to Wet and Tropical Greenery in the East, this one piece of land has too much to offer. With so much to offer and the number of options for traveling and being all touristy automatically increase ten-fold. India makes for a stunning tourist destination which has a lot to offer to everyone visiting. According to the Ministry of Tourism in India recent census, there are some places which have been a favorite of all foreigners in India. Thus, this is the list of Top 10 Tourist Places For Foreigners in: 

 

1. Tamil Nadu

It may come as a surprise but the City Of Temples and the Land with A Gift of Forests, Tamil Nadu is a magical and beautiful place which is in one of the favorite places to visit in India for foreigners. 

KODAIKANAL

Lush greenery and peaceful nature make Kodaikanal the ultimate tourist destination for foreign travelers. Far away from the hustle bustle and chaos of the urban city, Kodaikanal is a favorite hubspot for foreign tourists. The place has become increasingly famous because of its wild and famous 'magic mushrooms' with psychedelic compounds to transport your body and brain to another high! This makes for one crazy trip.
kodaikanal tamil nadu_image

MADURAI

Sky-scraping temple towers of the world-famous Meenakshi Amman Temple in the temple city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu is an architectural marvel and one of the finest pieces of history and art in the world. Apart from the Meenakshi Amman Temple, places like Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Koodal Alagar Temple also attracts a huge number of foreign travellers.
madurai in tamil nadu meenakshi temple_image
Paintings. Artifacts, Handicrafts, Cuisine among other things make Tamil Nadu a must on your travel itinerary. 

 

2. Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a state spanning west-central India and is obviously best known for its fast-paced sprawling metropolis capital, Mumbai and the Bollywood Film Industry which also doesn't fail in attracting foreigners too.

MUMBAI

But Mumbai is not just about the film industry! It has much more to it with sites like the British Raj-era Gateway of India monument and Cave temples at Elephanta Island, to the south is the rustic, beach-lined Konkan Coast. The place offers something for everything, with history lessons from Victoria Terminus, religious beliefs from Haji Ali Dargah to adventure and entertainment in Essel World and Film City. Also, festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi & Navratri make the place much special.mumbai_image

KAAS PLATEAU

Kaas Plateau is the Valley of flowers of South-India. This is the place where you can have the best and most colorful vacation at. With over 850 different species of flowers during and after the monsoons, the place makes for a huge canvas of spectacular array of colours. Also, the place is a no-vehicle zone making it pollution free and peaceful which is all one needs on a vacation. 
kaas plateau_image

PUNE

Also, the city of Pune has the famous Aga Khan Palace which is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Built in 1892, it is one of the important landmarks in Indian history. The place was used as a jail during the Quit India Movement, to capture and imprison Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Shri Mahadeobhai Desai, Dr Sarojini Naidu and others. 
pune aga khan palace_image

 

3. Uttar Pradesh

With no surprises, Uttar Pradesh is one state that had to be on the list when we are talking about foreigners favorite tourist destinations in India. Afterall, does the home to Taj Mahal require any introduction?

AGRA

The Mughals surely pored their hearts and souls out while building and planning Agra. With architectural masterpieces like Agra Fort, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Mughal gardens, the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri and a lot more the place blows foreigners. It leads the list of most visited places in India by foreigners. Not only the architecture and monuments but also handicraft bazaars and delicious snacks and sweets of Agra are known ubiquitously.  
agra taj mahal uttar pradesh_image

VARANASI

Hindu's holiest city, Varanasi is surprisingly a leading foreign tourist destination in India. Hindus believe that the flowing river Ganges (Ganga) washes the feet of this favorite abode of Lord Shiva and adds to its mysticism and taking a dip in it also washes away all your sins. The early morning boat ride, the must-attend evening aarti and the old world charm breathing narrow alleys and multicultural heritage of this place make it unique and a favourite of foreigners. 
varanasi_image

VRINDAVAN

Vrindavan, a town in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, is said to be the home of the Hindu deity Krishna who spent his childhood here. The place is one magically unique place. It’s home to temples, many dedicated to Krishna and his lover, the deity Radha. The place is quite a famous spot for foreigners, especially the followers of ISKCON. From the Banke Bihari Temple to Radha Raman Temple and Prem Mandir the place is holy, spiritual and peaceful by all means. Attending the festival of Holi at the place is on the bucket list of many.
vrindavan_image

 

4. DELHI

India’s national capital Delhi has been the seat of power for centuries and has witnessed every rise and down of the strongest dynasties in the world making it a prime political and historical location. A beautiful blend of Old Delhi and New Delhi still surviving together strong makes it one of the busiest metropolis which celebrates each day like a festival. Delhi houses the maximum number of tourist places as compared to any other part of India.
delhi rashtrapati bhawan_image

HISTORICAL PLACES

Delhi is endowed with Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lotus Temple, Jama Masjid, Rashtrapati Bhawan, Akshardham temple and much more to its credit because of its rich vast history. 
delhi india gate_image

FOOD TRAIL

Delhi is famous all over the country for its street food. The quality and unique variety of food you can find here at every nook and corner cannot be compared to any other places in India. Scrumptious street food platters at Chandni Chowk are every foreigner's favorite. Mouth wrenching food platters, Mughlai food, Kebabs, Biryani, Rolls, Momos and much more define Delhi's food culture in its true sense.
delhi street food_image
From Heritage Tours to colonial and modern architecture, world-class malls and shopping plazas and handicraft bazaars, Delhi have it all.

 

5. Rajasthan

The royal state of Rajasthan in North-West India is adorned by palaces and forts which are reminders of the many kingdoms that historically vied for the region. With the maximum number of tourists and Grand Hotels in India, Rajasthan has always been a favorite of the foreigners. It's something very unique and different when compared to the rest of the world. 


BIKANER

Don't take Bikaner for granted as just a desert town. The city of Bikaner is a fascinating world with extravagant forts (Junagarh and Lalgarh), glorious palaces (Laxmi Niwas Palace) and ornate havelis and temples. A camel ride and a desert jeep safari is a must when in the town while enjoying the lite and the famous and flavorsome bhujias and namkeens. bikaner in rajasthan_image

JAIPUR

The royal pink city, Jaipur is an extraordinary cultural kaleidoscope of India. With places like Hillforts of Amber, honeycomb-resembling Hawa Mahal, exquisite temples, City palaces, and monuments Jaipur is a cultural delight to foreigners. From fine culinary skills to spectacular handicrafts in clothes and jewelry, Jaipur is truly unique and amazing. 

jaipur rajasthan_image

JAISALMER

The Golden city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is the world's most unusual place where forts and palaces change color with the falling sunrays which give it its name of the Golden City. The place is home to Jain temples and Havelis, Forts and Bazaars and Lakes and Museums. Jaisalmer is a foreigner's favorite tourist place for the best camel safaris in India and the most spectacular sunset views. jaisalmer in rajasthan_image

JODHPUR

Rajasthan is the largest state of India which automatically multiplies the number of tourist destinations which are foreigner's favorite in one place. The Blue City of Jodhpur is a magnificent view of the Rajasthani culture. The colossal Mehrangarh Fort makes for breathtaking views and other tourist places like Jaswant Thada, Mandore Garden, and Umaid Bhawan Palace makes for luxury testimonies of the place. If you are in Jodhpur, don't miss out on the very famous Mawa kachori and Mirchi bada!
jodhpur rajasthan_image

UDAIPUR

The City of Lakes, Udaipur is a dream world. The cleanest and the most royal city of Rajasthan, Udaipur is a fairy-tale land. The Aravalli Hills as the setting makes the place picturesque and the weather pleasant throughout the year. In addition, the shores and islands on the huge vast lakes make for an amazing sight. Explore City Palace, Bagore-ki-Haveli, Ahar Museum, Heritage Hotels and Saheliyon-ki-Bari, Go boating at Lake Pichola and take a tour of the city on your cycle.
udaipur_image

 

6. West Bengal

The Eastern state of West Bengal is at a beautiful location with the Himalayas on one side and The Bay Of Bengal on the other. The capital city, Kolkata retains architectural and cultural remnants of its past as an East India Company trading post and capital of the British Raj making it a big colonial landmark


SANDAKPHU

West Bengal's highest Peak, Sandakphu is a region blessed with rhododendrons and primulas that create the fascinating contrast with lush green foliage and the snow-capped Himalayas in the backdrop. For adventure lovers, the place is a great one to go on trekking and the magnificent views of the place make it one of the top tourist destinations for the foreigners in India. 
sandakphu in west bengal trekking_image

FESTIVALS

The celebration of festivals is a huge thing in West Bengal and this culturally rich state for the very same reason which attracts many tourists too. Durga Pooja and Navaratri in West Bengal are 2 things you should experience at least once in your lifetime. And the country's favourite sweets from West Bengal add another unique flavour to the whole experience. 
durga pooja in west bengal_image

 

7. Kerala

The backwaters of Kerala had widely populated the name of Kerala throughout the world. This South Indian state with the highest literacy rate in India is beautiful, intelligent, clean and just breathtaking in every aspect from culture to food and tourism facilities. 

ALLEPPEY

The 'Venice Of The East', Alleppey hosts criss-cross backwater channels amidst lavishly green paddy fields and heart-warming countryside. It is a place for everyone! Whether you are just a nature lover, romantic couple or just an adventure seeker! With beaches and houseboats on one side and temples and races on the other, and the famous ayurvedic therapies and massages, Alleppey makes for one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. 
alleppey kerala_image

KOVALAM

Kerala's most famous beach, Kovalam is a favorite of Hippies and foreigners since past many decades. Also a very famous honeymoon destination, Kovalam is a beautiful and serene beach with splendid sunset views and other sights. Try the seafood, go surfing, boating and have a picnic under the lighthouse for a full experience. 
kovalam beach kerala_image

THEKKADY

If you want to go for boat safaris, trekking, bamboo rafting, elephant rides, spice plantation tours, border hiking, bullock cart rides or other activities, then Thekkady is the place for you. Thekkady is rich in wildlife and nature because it is a Tiger Reserve. The Periyar National Park which is established around Lake Periyar is home to tigers, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel and several other animals. It is on every foreigner in India's travel list because this place will get you up-close and intimates you to be get with the nature.thekkady_image

MUNNAR

Munnar is a beautiful natural landscape of vast green stretches where lush green tea estates decorate the scenic valleys. With waterfalls, lakes, vantage points and treasures of exotic flora and fauna, Munnar is on every tourist's list of places to visit in India. Spot an elephant deep in the jungles, visit the world's highest Tea Estates - Kolukkumulai Tea Estate, go rock climbing or simply enjoy tea, spices and homemade chocolates. There's something for everyone in Munnar. 
munnar in kerala_image

 

8. Madhya Pradesh

One of the largest states in India, Madhya Pradesh retains landmarks from eras throughout Indian history. The place gives you the ultimate experience of being up close with both history and nature at the very same time. 

ORACHHA

The medieval town of Orchha has majestic forts and sings tails of Rajput history. Resplendent palaces and enthralling temples like Chaturbhuj and Ram Raja make it one of the most visited places in India by tourists. For adventure seekers, there are thrilling rafting opportunities on river Betwa.
orachha in madhya pradesh_image

KHAJURAHO

The World Heritage Site of Khajuraho Temples is world famous because of its depiction of erotica in architecture with elegance. In the lush green settings of Madhya Pradesh, the place makes way for all art lovers. Khajuraho is sure going to remain a timeless expression of beauty and elegance. 
khajuraho temple_image

JUNGLE GETAWAYS

With eastern Bandhavgarh and Kanha national parks, noted Bengal tiger sanctuaries, Madhya Pradesh is the prime location in India to go for a jungle safari or stay in a jungle lodge away from the chaos of urban cities and just enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and wilderness. 
kanha national park jungles in madhya pradhesh_image

 

9. Karnataka

On the Arabian Sea coastline, Karnataka is a high-tech hub known for its shopping and nightlife in Bangalore, home to lavish temples in Mysore and former seat of the region’s maharajas at Hampi. Truly a unique place to enjoy everything at once!


HAMPI

For any history buff, Hampi is a dream sight. With world's greatest architectural specimen and ruins of once prosperous empire, Hampi is a World Heritage Site with royal enclosures, elephant stables and more still intact for your view. Not just the history but also for adventurous outings filled with coracle ridings, rock climbing or bouldering are what the place is famous for. 
hampi in karnataka_image

MYSORE

The Royal Palace of Mysore is a world World Heritage-listed site and is a stamp of royalty in Karnataka. Not only that, but the hilltop guardian temple of Goddess Chamundehswari or the sprawling canvas of Brindavan Gardens add Mysore to the list of most visited places in India by foreigners. Mansions, churches, art galleries and museums and the smallest things like the Mysore silk fabric make the place a rich tourist place. 
mysore karnataka_image

 

10. Goa

IT HAD TO BE GOA! No list of mentioning tourist places in India is complete without the mention of Goa. This is a part of the country, with the most magnificent beaches, thrilling water sports, the eternal colonial forts, seafood, colonial streets and churches and the dynamic nightlife take Goa to another level! From flea markets to wildlife reserves and carnivals, Goa is the place to live your Dreams, Dance and Drink your hearts out!
goa_image

GOKARNA

Yes, we have heard of Goa but what is Gokarna? The new hip spot a little south to Goa on the borders of Karnataka has become the laid back vacation spot for all foreign tourists. Most of Goa regulars have now moved to Gokarna’s serene beaches, where the crowds are less and the beaches cleaner. From religious hip devotees of Shiva to happy go lucky travelers, you'll find all kinds of people here making it the ultimate party spot!
gokarna_image

 

These 10 places make for the top tourist places in India that foreigners visiting India are going crazy about. Pack your luggage, pick a spot and get ready for your next venture to one of these gorgeous places in India.


FAQs


Q. Which beach in Goa is best for foreigners?
A. These are top 10 beaches for foreigners in Goa:
    1. Arambol Beach
    2. Colva Beach
    3. Ashwem Beach
    4. Ozran Beach
    5. Vagator Beach
    6. Benaulim Beach
    7. Anjuna Beach
    8. Palolem Beach
    9. Morjim Beach
   10. Mobor Beach


Q. Which state has the highest tourism in India?
A. As per the number of foreign tourist visits, these are the top 10 states - 
    1. Tamil Nadu
    2. Maharashtra
    3. Uttar Pradesh
    4. Delhi
    5. Rajasthan
    6. West Bengal
    7. Kerala
    8. Bihar
    9. Karnataka
    10. Goa

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