7 Famous Cities In India That You Ought Not To Miss

Remember the amazing Incredible India ads? The rhythmic montages featured some of the most famous cities in India to give us a stunning glimpse into our vast land. The mountains, the terrains, the seashores and the landscapes – there is no place like ours. Every few kilometres, India changes character. It’s quiet one moment and loud the next, solemn one city and sophisticated the next. No matter how much you’ve already explored, there are stories still unheard of, flavours yet not tasted and sights yet not seen. 

In a diverse land, how would one map out the most famous cities in India? The list would go on and on. So we figured out one way: the classic ‘Kashmir to Kanyakumari’ approach.  In this article, we stretch from North to South and East to West to develop the 7 best tourist cities in India. These cities will enthral, encapsulate and enrich you in more ways than one. So, pack your bags and mark your calendars; it’s time to prepare the ultimate Indian itinerary. 

Srinagar

As Khusrow said, Gar firdaus ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin asto!(If there is a paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here). Jammu & Kashmir’s summer capital, Srinagar, is an artwork of nature. Floating around in the Dal Lake on a Shikara boat against the snow-clad Himalayas in this city embodies pure bliss. The beautiful landscapes, the handwoven Pashmina shawls and the rich Kashmiri culture make Srinagar one of the most famous cities in India. From gardens like the Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh to flavourful delicacies like the Wazwan, the blend of Indian and Persian influences is visible throughout the city. 

When you return from Srinagar, its wooden houses, misty landscapes, and sweet Kashmiri dialect will not leave you anytime soon!

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Srinagar is from April to October when the pleasant weather enhances the beauty of its blooming gardens and sparkling lakes.
• Best Route to Visit: The NH-44 provides smooth road access to J&K via road. For those flying in, the most direct route is the Srinagar International Airport. 

Delhi

Towards the northern plains, we now move to the capital city of Delhi. There won’t ever be enough space to fully discuss Delhi’s glory. There is no dearth of cultural richness and architectural grandeur in this city. The popular sites of Laal Quila, India Gate, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb tell the tale of its legacy of power. Delhi is a paradise, especially for food lovers. The parathas, chole bhature, butter chicken and age-old eateries of Chandni Chowk provide a street food experience unmatched by any other city in the world. In essence, Delhi’s pulsating and livid atmosphere makes it one of the best tourist cities in India.

• Best Time to Visit: The cool weather from October to March is much more comfortable for visiting Delhi, in comparison to the scorching heat of the summers. 
• Best Route to Visit: The Indira Gandhi International Airport and the New Delhi Railway Station are the most popular routes to Delhi. 

Mumbai

Mumbai is the city that never sleeps. It is the City of Dreams. Actors, directors, business owners, and anyone looking to make it big turn to the island city. Mumbai is most popularly known as the home of the Hindi film industry, fondly called Bollywood. With lasting impressions of the colonial era, it’s among the best showcases of India’s cultural and historical depths. The Gateway of India and  Marine Drive are some popular landmarks. With the exotic flavours of Vada Pao, Pao Bhaji and Bun Maska ranking it among the best tourist cities in India.  

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Mumbai is between November and February. The pleasant weather during this time is perfect for exploring it to the fullest. 
• Best Route to Visit: The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai Central Railway Station and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus are the most popular routes. 

Hyderabad

The City of Nizams, a booming IT hub today and home to the iconic Charminar- we begin our southern exploration with Hyderabad. A city full of surprises, it features the Golconda Fort, Hussain Sagar Lake and Ramoji Film City.  One of the most heartwarming things in Hyderabad is the distinct Hyderabadi accent. The unique blend of Urdu, Hindi and Telugu is spoken in a characteristic dialect that’s nowhere else to be heard. But here is the thing! Despite the Charminar, the IT hubs and the sweet dialect, the Hyderabad Biryani emerges as a clear winner when it comes to the best things about Hyderabad. 

• Best Time to Visit: The cool and pleasant weather from October to February is a great time to visit this famous city in India. 
• Best Route to Visit: Hyderabad can be reached by the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and National Highway 44. 

Bangalore

Bangalore, popularly called India’s Silicon Valley, has truly taken India to the global stage. The city once called the Pensioner’s Paradise is now witnessing the birth of IT giants and ambitious startups every other day. The light bulb of ideas is always glowing in Bangalore. Beyond coding and coffee, Bangalore is also known for its pleasant weather. Landmarks like the Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace make it one of the best tourist cities in India. 

Just so you know, the rava idlis we all devour so passionately were invented here in Bangalore during World War II!

• Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit between September and February. The weather is perfect for exploring this vibrant city’s outdoor cafes, gardens, and bustling streets.
• Best Route to Visit: The Kempegowda International Airport, National Highway 44 and National Highway 48 offer ready connectivity to this famous city in India.

Don’t Miss It!

Goa

One mention of Goa, and we all begin daydreaming of the long-due road trip with our friends. Located on the western coast, the perenially popular Goa is undoubtedly one of the best tourist cities in India. Both domestic and international travellers seek its sun, sand and sea. Some of its most popular beaches include Baga Beach, Palolem Beach and Anjuna Beach. A colourful Portuguese influence further provides a vibrant backdrop to the city.  Whether it’s the thrill of water sports, the quiet of the beach sunsets, or the joy of a vibrant nightlife, many stories await the explorers in Goa.

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is between November and February. During these months, Goa is cooler, more dry, and full of festivities.
• Best Routes: Visitors can fly directly into the Goa International Airport or use the National Highway 66 for scenic road trips. 

Kolkata

On the east, we have Kolkata. The city has always been one of India’s strongest cultural centres.  It is the land of Ray and the land of Bose, the land of Hooghly and the land of Tagore. Be it their politics, sport or food, the Bengalis are just as passionate as they’re cultured. Dance, music and theatre are part of everyday life in this intellectually charged city. Popular landmarks like Howrah Bridge, Sunderbans and Victoria Memorial make it one of the best tourist cities in India. And, of course, not to forget the enthralling and powerful Durga Puja celebrations.

• Best Time to Visit: The cooler months from October to March are ideal for visiting this famous city in India. The pleasant weather elevates the entire exploration. 
• Best Route to Visit: The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport and National Highway 16 are convenient routes to the city. 

The Journey Concludes

Mapping North to South and East to West, these famous cities in India make for exciting getaways, trips, and explorations. Connections with cities are built through their places, culture, and people. Be it the legendary India Gate or the Charminar, the wild Goan nightlife or the powerful Durga Puja, the seven listed places are among the best tourist cities in India. Visit these with your friends and families for some soul-enriching journeys and a lifetime of memories.

FAQ’s about Famous Cities in India