By Alex Robinson 
Travellers worldwide dream about India, a country with a rich legacy and varied terrain. From the majesty of ancient sites to the peace of natural beauties, India presents a tapestry of experiences for first-time guests. These must-see tourist locations will help you to remember your first trip to India.
The Taj Mahal: An Icon of Love and Architecture
Every journey to India is complete with seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra. Built in honour of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, Emperor Shah Jahan’s white marble mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the World’s New Seven Wonders.
Standing before the Taj Mahal at daybreak, the way the marble contrasts with the morning sky creates a hypnotic view. Wander over the verdant grounds and take in the calligraphy and detailed inlay work that define this architectural gem.
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Jaipur: The Pink City’s Royal Charm
Rajasitan capital, Jaipur, is a dynamic city rich in history and culture. Renowned for its strikingly coloured architecture, Jaipur is home to some of the most famous sites in India.
See the magnificent hilltop palace Amber Fort, which combines Mughal and Rajput building techniques. Still a royal house, explore the City Palace and wonder at its lavish courtyards and museums.
Shopping for traditional handicrafts, jewellery, and textiles makes the busy bazaars of Jaipur ideal for your trip, which will be both culturally and practically immersing.
Varanasi: Spirituality Along the Nile
One of the first continuously inhabited towns in the world, Varanasi offers a very spiritual experience. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, this city serves as India’s spiritual capital.
See the hypnotic Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests conduct chants, fire, and incense-based rites. See the ghats—steps leading to the water—where residents and pilgrims assemble for prayers and bathing—by a morning boat trip along the river.
Varanasi’s small, meandering lanes are lined with temples, marketplaces, and restaurants offering authentic Indian sweets and snacks, further enhancing its unique appeal.
Kerala: God’s Own Country
Kerala is a must-see for people looking for peace and natural beauty. Perfect beaches, calm backwaters, and rich green scenery define this southern state.
Relax among calm waves and coconut palms on a houseboat trip across Alleppey or Kumarakom’s backwaters. See Munnar, a hill station well-known for its mild temperature, mist-covered hills, and tea estates.
While its cultural events, like Kathakali performances, offer a window into the area’s customs, Kerala’s Ayurvedic spas and wellness retreats provide refreshments.
Delhi: A Blend of History and Modernity
Delhi, India’s capital, is a metropolis that deftly combines the old and the modern. From busy markets to ancient sites, Delhi provides a window into the varied legacy of India.
Starting with both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the famous Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb, you will see the detailed carvings of the tallest brick minaret in the world, Qutub Minar.
With its sensory feast of street food, spices, and traditional goods, Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk is a must-visit. By contrast, New Delhi features contemporary architecture, including the Lotus Temple and India Gate.
Goa: Sun, Sand, and History
The smallest state in India, Goa is well-known for its Portuguese past, active nightlife, and golden beaches. It has something for everyone, whether you prefer to spend your leisure time by the sea or exploring historical sites.
See the St. Francis Xavier relics housed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilica of Bom Jesus. Discover the little streets of Fontainhas, the Panjim Latin Quarter, dotted with vibrantly Portuguese-style homes.
Water sports like parasailing and scuba diving are more accessible for adventure lovers. Hence, Goa is a place for both leisure and thrills.
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Rishikesh: Adventure Meets Spirituality
Tucked down in the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh is a refuge for spiritual searchers as well as adrenaline junkies. Often referred to as the Yoga Capital of the World, it draws guests wishing to practice meditation and yoga in peace.
See ashrams like Parmarth Niketan, cross the famous Laxman Jhula suspension bridge, and join the sunset Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Try white-water rafting on the Ganges or hiking among the nearby hills for adventure.
Several locations in India offer trips full of breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and lifelong experiences. Whether your first trip to India is lured by the spiritual aura of Varanasi, the calm backwaters of Kerala, or the historical grandeur of the Taj Mahal, it will be an incredible adventure that will leave you yearning for more.