Deeply traditional yet endlessly surprising, India is one of those destinations that ends up on every traveler’s bucket list at some point. They might dream of going to Agra to see the Taj Mahal in all its glory or exploring the royal palaces scattered throughout Rajasthan. Others find themselves attracted to the jaw-dropping landscapes in Darjeeling and Rishikesh or the postcard-perfect beaches in Goa.

There’s also India’s big cities–New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata–each of which has its own distinctive personality. It’s impossible to get bored exploring the temples, markets, and colorful streets of India’s biggest urban centers. The hardest part of traveling to India is figuring out exactly what to see on your journey.

Whether you’re going on an epic backpacking trip or a luxe vacation, plan your adventure with this list of the best places to visit in India.

1. Agra

Agra is a city located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is known for being home to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Taj Mahal. A trip to Agra would typically include visiting the Taj Mahal, which is a mausoleum built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The white marble structure is widely considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other popular tourist spots in Agra include the Agra Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. The fort was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. Another must-visit attraction is the

Tomb, it is also known as Baby Taj. It is a Mughal mausoleum, often described as a “jewel box” and sometimes called the “Bachcha Taj” (meaning “miniature Taj”).

2. New Delhi

New Delhi offers tourists a lot to love despite its crowds and chaos. The colorful capital of India is the perfect marriage of heritage and modernity. Old Delhi contains some of the country’s most treasured attractions, including the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Chandni Chowk shopping thoroughfare. But throughout the sprawling city, tourists can explore countless other sites of spiritual and cultural importance.

3. Mumbai

Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and is known for being the financial and entertainment capital of India. A trip to Mumbai would typically include visiting some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and experiencing its vibrant culture.

Some popular tourist spots in Mumbai include:

  • Gateway of India: A historic monument built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India. It is a popular spot for tourists to take a boat ride to the nearby Elephanta Caves or to simply take in the views of the Arabian Sea.
  • Marine Drive: A 3-kilometer-long promenade along the Arabian Sea, popularly referred to as the “Queen’s Necklace” due to the street lights that adorn it at night.
  • Elephanta Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these rock-cut caves are located on an island in the Arabian Sea and are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures.
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: A museum that houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the Indian subcontinent, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

4. Rajasthan

Translated to “Land of Kings,” Rajasthan brims with remnants of the kings and queens of past centuries. Between its glittering palaces, stately forts, and lively festivals, this western state deserves a starring role in your trip to India.

Jaipur, part of the Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit, which also includes Agra and New Delhi, is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. Dubbed “The Paris of India,” it’s known for its characteristic pink buildings, lavish City Palace, and jewelry stores galore.

The “Blue City,” Jodhpur, offers tourists an equally unforgettable experience in its hilltop Mehrangarh Fort.

5. Varanasi

Also known as Banaras or Kashi, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is one of the world’s oldest cities and one of India’s seven holiest cities. It is situated alongside the Ganges and is known for its many temples, ghats, aartis and auspiciousness. Holidify’s many Varanasi tour packages enable you to experience the best of this holy city, whether you are travelling alone or with someone.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the city’s heart is believed to be one of India’s most sacred temples. One of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple has about 800kg of gold plating on its tower and was where the king used to worship during special festivals. Some other temples that you can go to for a darshan include the Tulsi Manas Temple, Durga Temple and Batuk Bhairav Mandir.