India is so big that you need years to explore it fully. But if you have less time, then start with these 6 places. These are the most searched and most loved places in India.
I made this list after talking to many travelers and my own experience.
 1. Ladakh– The Land of High Passes
If you want to see something different in life, go to Ladakh once.
What to see: Pangong Lake (blue water lake), Nubra Valley (desert in mountains), Khardung La Pass, Magnetic Hill.
Best Time: May to September. All roads are open in this time.
My Tip: First day take full rest in Leh. Oxygen is less here, so don’t run on first day. Drink lots of water.
How to reach: Flight from Kolkata to Delhi, then Delhi to Leh. Or you can go by bike from Manali, that is more adventurous.
 2. Taj Mahal, Agra – Pride of India
Taj Mahal is not just a monument, it is a feeling. I went there at 6 AM and saw sunrise. The white marble was looking golden. Crowd was less in morning.
Best Time: October to March. Go early morning to avoid crowd.
Ticket: 50 Rs for Indians, 1100 Rs for foreigners.
My Tip: Friday closed. And don’t forget to see Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh in evening, free and beautiful view.
3. Howrah Bridge, Kolkata – More Than a Bridge
For outsiders it is just a bridge, for us Bengalis it is emotion.
I grew up seeing this bridge. In evening, when lights turn on, take a ferry from Howrah to Bagbazar. Ticket only 15 Rs but view is worth lakhs.
Best Time: Evening time 6 PM to 7 PM for photos.
How to reach: Howrah Station se 2 min walking. Or metro to Esplanade then bus.
 4. Kashmir – Heaven on Earth
If you want snow, greenery and lakes together, then only Kashmir.
What to see: Gulmarg (for snow and Gondola ride), Dal Lake (Shikara ride and houseboat stay), Pahalgam (for peace).
Best Time: Dec-Jan for snow, March-April for Tulip flowers.
My Tip: Take a local guide, they will save your money and time. Bargain for everything.
 5. Goa – Beach, Party and Peace
Goa is for chilling. No one will judge you.
North Goa: Baga Beach, Calangute, Anjuna – for party and water sports.
South Goa: Palolem, Colva – for peace and family.
Best Time: November to February.
Budget: 1500 Rs per day if you go with friends and stay in hostel.
 6. Manali – Best for First Mountain Trip
If you never saw snow, start with Manali. It is easy to reach and safe.
What to see: Solang Valley for paragliding and ATV ride, Hadimba Temple, Mall Road, Atal Tunnel.
Best Time: Dec to Feb for full snow, May-June for pleasant weather.
How to reach: Bus from Delhi to Manali, 12 hours journey. Volvo bus is best.
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Final Words
So these were my Top 6. If you ask me, start with Howrah Bridge if you are in Kolkata, then plan for Ladakh or Kashmir.
Comment below – Out of these 6, which one is your dream place?
And if you want full guide on any one place, tell me in comment. I will make next blog on that.