An urban jungle: India’s must-see cities

From the ancient alleyways of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, the cities in India offer a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unravelled. In this diverse country, travellers have something new to see and do everywhere they go in India's best places to visit. Are you ready to experience India’s rich heritage and colourful urban landscapes? This ultimate guide takes you to India’s top cities, where you’ll come across must-see attractions, hidden gems, and other amazing things to do.

Delhi

Let’s kick off the list of India's best cities with the country's bustling capital. Delhi is a city of contrasts, where ancient history blends in perfectly with modern vibes. Don’t miss the iconic Red Fort, built by the storied Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Outside the UNESCO site, which served as a key battleground in India’s First War of Independence, you can stroll around the age-old market of Chandni Chowk, where you can enjoy local treats like dilli-ki chaat (fried potatoes covered in spices) to your heart’s content.

Qutub Minar, the "victory tower," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site named after the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. Around the 73m (240ft) minaret are mosques and structures that can easily take half a day to explore.

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Mumbai

The City of Dreams is a metropolis where Bollywood glamour meets everyday hustle, with tons of things to do. Visit Shree Siddhivinayak Temple or go for a stroll in Colaba, a tourist district teeming with gourmet dining options and designer boutiques. But don’t stop there. Tour the city in a rickshaw or enjoy its street food delicacies, such as spicy vada pav. You can also visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park outside the city or cool down in the Snow Kingdom amusement park.

When in Mumbai, take a short journey to the Mumbai Taj and the Gateway of India in the south. After taking a closer look at these landmarks, hop on a ferry to Elephanta Caves. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can witness intricate carvings and sculptures dedicated to Hindu gods, mainly Lord Shiva.

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Varanasi

Without a doubt, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India. It is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back more than 3,000 years. Start at the ghats of the Ganges (steps leading to the river) and see the mesmerizing ritual of Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat firsthand. For a quieter experience, take a morning boat ride to see the ghats glowing in the sunrise light. You can also wander through narrow alleys to uncover hidden gems, such as the quiet Sankat Mochan Temple or the obscure but beautiful Tulsi Manas Mandir. Don’t miss the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It honours Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest sites for Hindus. You can participate in the temple’s rituals, including the Ganga Aarti. Inside the temple, you can make offerings of flowers, milk, and water at the sacred Shiva Lingam.

See it for yourself on: Essential India

Bengaluru (Bangalore)

Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru offers a mix of tech-savvy culture, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture that many visitors adore. ISKCON Bangalore temple perfectly embodies these features. After you visit the temple, take a stroll in Lalbagh Botanical Garden and admire the majestic Bengaluru Palace. For something different, check out the arty vibe of Church Street and its quirky cafes and bookstores. Other worthy destinations are the Tipu Sultan's Palace and the National Gallery of Modern Art.

Agra

Agra is home to some of India’s most visited attractions, including the one and only Taj Mahal, a timeless wonder. This white marble giant never fails to impress and is exceptionally enjoyable to see at sunrise or sunset. Don't miss the nearby Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, a magnificent red sandstone fortress that tells the story of India’s Mughal past.

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Kolkata

Find old-world charm in the City of Joy. Kolkata is a feast for the senses, perfect if you love when every corner holds a piece of history. Start your journey with a visit to the Victoria Memorial and its grand white marble building. It’s not just a place of historical significance — it’s also a stunning sight to behold. Don't miss the lush gardens where you can unwind and catch your breath.

Afterward, head to Howrah Bridge, which connects the city to its eastern outskirts. The view from the bridge, especially at sunset, is a must-see in the city. For a more spiritual journey, make your way to Kalighat Temple. This holy place honours the goddess Kali. Another off-the-beaten-path treasure is the Marble Palace and its collection of antiques. If you're a bookworm, College Street is lined with old bookstores and stalls. It’s the largest book market in India, and you can find everything from rare antique books to modern bestsellers.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the gorgeous capital of Rajasthan, is a place where history comes alive in the shape of towering forts and royal palaces. Amber Fort is an absolute must-see. This majestic stronghold lies high on a hill overlooking Maota Lake. Roam its courtyards and halls while keeping an eye on the carvings that tell stories of the royal past. Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal, the Mirror Palace, where thousands of small mirrors create a mind-boggling effect. No trip to Jaipur is complete without seeing Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. This pink sandstone structure boasts hundreds of small windows and was designed to allow royal women to observe street life discreetly.

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Ahmedabad

Nestled in the heart of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. Sabarmati Ashram, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, is a must-visit for a peek into India’s independence movement. If you're an architecture enthusiast, the hand-carved, 15th-century Adalaj Stepwell awaits. Next, explore Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, which has an iconic Tree of Life stone lattice window that's a symbol of the city. Elsewhere, the Calico Museum of Textiles showcases India’s rich textile history through age-old fabrics and designs.

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Chennai

Chennai is a mix of old and new, from temples to colonial history. Start with Marina Beach, India’s longest urban beach, and join early-morning walkers, local vendors, and beachgoers for an energetic start to the day. Head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore next. This Dravidian-style temple celebrates Lord Shiva with rich inscriptions and sculptures. For a touch of Chennai’s colonial history, you can also visit Fort St. George. The first English fortress in India is home to a museum of relics from the colonial era.

Another worthy destination is the Theosophical Society in Adyar. Once you make friends with the 450-year-old banyan tree sprawling across the gardens, it's easy to understand why this place is an oasis in the middle of the city. Add another layer of history to your stay by visiting Santhome Cathedral, a serene Gothic-style church.

Udaipur

The City of Lakes is a dreamscape of palaces, serene lakes, and romantic views. Start at the City Palace that overlooks Lake Pichola. Here, you can relish the complex’s architecture, courtyards, and views of the city. As you walk along its many passages and mosaics, you can feel the grandeur of the Rajput kings. For a touch of serenity, hop on a boat ride around Lake Pichola and glide across the water to get an up-close view of the marble gem called the Lake Palace.

Hopefully, you’re a big fan of lakes, because Jag Mandir is next up. This island palace is home to countless gardens and sculptures. At the end of the day, catch the sunset from Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace. The spectacular fortress sits high above the city, meaning you’ll get to see all the lakes and places you saw earlier in the day.

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Jodhpur

Known as the Blue City for its strikingly painted houses, Jodhpur is a visual feast and a hub of Rajasthan’s rich culture. Start at Mehrangarh Fort, perched high above the city, where you can explore the courtyards and museums and enjoy panoramic views of the blue-hued cityscape below. A short walk from the fort brings you to Jaswant Thada, an exquisite marble cenotaph dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

See it for yourself on: Rajasthan Adventure

Panaji

Panaji, the charming capital of Goa, is a delightful blend of colonial architecture, palm-fringed beaches, and laid-back vibes. Start your day at the iconic Basilica of Bom Jesus, home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Stroll through Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter, where the colourful Portuguese-style houses transport you to an earlier era. For a taste of Goan culture, visit the local markets or take a cruise on the Mandovi River.