India is a place like no other. A major chunk of India’s economy is dedicated to the tourism industry. Its vibrancy and unique identity invites tourists from all over the world every year. India is known for being a welcoming atmosphere to everyone no matter where they are coming from. The concept of having people over has always been an important part of Indian hospitality. Tourists experience this hospitable nature and carve out a special place for India in their heart. It is said that in India one gets to experience a new culture, tradition or language every couple of steps, but one thing remains common which is their love and care for one another. Even though all places in India are tourist friendly, some places are more tourist oriented than others.
Here are the most tourist friendly places in India:
1. Goa
Goa has been a tourist hub since one can remember. It has been inviting not only local but foreign crowds ever since it was ruled over by the Portuguese. This beach capital of India is known for its on sea casinos and never ending partying culture. However, the locals here are extremely tourist friendly. The beaches are well patrolled by lifeguards and the local authorities are always helpful in case of need. The accommodation and people working there are very helpful in case of need. Rarely any tourist has returned from Goa dissatisfied or grumpy. It is one place in India that will always leave you refreshed and happy. Over the years Goa has become the focal point for solo and even solo female travellers from not just within India but across the world as well.
Suggested Tour: Goa Tour Packages
2. Munnar
Situated at a comfortable height of 1600 metres above sea level Munnar is a much loved hill station of Kerala. Earlier it was developed as a summer resort for the erstwhile British Empire, but later on it quickly gained a lot of popularity and turned into a favourite among local as well as international travellers. Replete with trustworthy lodges and accommodation, the hills locals are extremely welcoming and warm towards tourists. The tourism culture here is nothing new and continues to be the reason for the economy of Munnar to thrive. The exotic collection of flora and fauna in the region is one of a kind in every sense. A must have experience in Munnar remains is the Neelakurinji blooming season when the entire hilly grassland gets covered entirely in blue blooming Neelakurinji Flowers.
Suggested Tour: Munnar Tour Packages
3. Rishikesh
Rishikesh or the yoga and meditation capital of the world is a well-known tourist destination. The influx of domestic as well as international tourists has turned Rishikesh into one of the most loved tourist destinations in India. Placed against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas and on the banks of the holy Ganga River, the ancient town of Rishikesh is all about spirituality and good vibes. The ashrams of Rishikesh like Gita Ashram, Parmarth Niketan Ashram etc. host tourists from different corners of the world all year long with the headline event being the international yoga festival. These ashrams are internationally renowned for their various philosophical schools of thought. It was also in 1969 that the hit British rock band, the Beatles had also visited Rishikesh to learn more about meditation and yoga. This also prompted people to make their way to this holy town of peace, love and spirituality. All these things makes Rishikesh one of the holiest, most pious and an extremely friendly tourist place in India.
Suggested Tour: Rishikesh Tour Packages
4. Darjeeling
The small hamlet town of Darjeeling adorns the eastern Himalayas. Situated on an average elevation of 2,045 metres above sea level it is a melting pot of various cultures and beliefs. It shares boundaries with many places like Bhutan, Sikkim, Nepal, China, Tibet and Bangladesh which is the reason for its rich ethnic background. Home to the 3rd highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling is often referred to as the queen of hills. From the tea plantations to its exquisite tourist attractions of toy trains, tiger hill and more, it is a traveller’s paradise. The rolling hill set against the backdrop of the mighty Kanchenjunga Range turns this sleepy town into a picture perfect hill destination for everyone. Due to its rich heritage, unique diversity and impressive geological features, this hamlet on the Himalayas invites travellers, mountain lovers and peace seekers from all over the world.
Suggested Tour: Darjeeling Tour Packages
5. Shimla
Shimla, the capital of the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most admired tourist destination in India. Developed as a summer capital for the British in 1864, Shimla has seen the growing levels of tourism over time. Drenched in a deep colonial vibe, decorated with trees of pine and fir and a travel friendly accessibility makes Shimla one of the most preferred hilly holiday destinations in North India. It is very well-connected through highways to many nearby cities. For example, Chandigarh is just 4 hours of drive away. Shimla is often covered with its nearby hamlets of Kufri, Chail and even the famous hanuman temple of Jakhu. There is no dearth of places to visit for a tourist in Shimla. It is the perfect destination for solo travellers, groups of friends and especially family on a vacation.
Suggested Tour: Shimla Tour Packages
6. Spiti Valley
The high altitude desert of Spiti in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most uniquely tourist friendly places in India. Situated on an average elevation of 3,600 metres to 6,700 metres above sea level, the term Spiti means ‘the middle land’, i.e. the land between Tibet and India. The cold desert environment invites adventure lovers from across the globe. The dirt roads and off roading opportunities here is the perfect playground for off road adventures on cars and bikes. For the longest time Spiti remained away from the tourist eye due to its remoteness. With the rapid development of roads and highways and an increase in connectivity Spiti has turned into a tourist hub. With the history dating back to the pre historic era, tourists with a curious coil always have a good time in this high altitude cold desert. Places like Losar, Kaza, Tabo, Sumdo, Dhankar etc. are the perfect destination for tourists. The locals are extremely warm and welcoming.
7. Jaipur
When it comes to finding the perfect tourist destination in India, Jaipur probably tops the charts. It is one of the finest tourist destinations in India for any type of traveller. The walled city of Jaipur is a famous UNESCO world heritage site and is the only 2nd city to be recognised just after Ahmedabad. Tourism constitutes for over 15% of the domestic product with millions of domestic and international tourists flocking the city every year. Places like the palaces of Jaipur, lakes of Udaipur and desert forts of Jodhpur and Jaisalmer are among some of the most preferred holiday destinations in Rajasthan as a whole. Jaipur has always been a favourite among backpackers and solo travellers since a very long time. It is because of this that the pink city is extremely tourist friendly.
Suggested Tour: Jaipur Tour Packages
8. Orchha
Situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Orchha is a hidden jewel of a place. This small sleepy town, decorated with Chattris is nestled on the banks of river Betwa. Founded in 16th century by King Rudra Pratap of Bundela, it is one of the most fascinating places to visit in India. Even though it is not that famous among domestic travellers, Orchha has gained immense popularity among its international travellers. The fascinating temples, Mughal inspired Rajput architecture and palaces seem like they are frozen in time and makes for a very moving experience. One lesser known fact about Orchha is that other than Ajodhya, Orchha was another kingdom of lord ram. The Chattris of Orchha deserve a special mention. These individual Chattris are funerary monuments that were constructed to honor and commemorate the late rulers of Orchha.
9. Kasol
Kasol, or the mini Israel of India, is a humble hilly hamlet in the old Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh. Kasol remains flocked with international as well as domestic tourists throughout the year. Situated on the either sides of the ferocious Parvati River, Kasol is blessed with intense greenery and untouched horizons that remain well preserved even today. Often used as a base camp for the Kheerganga Trek, Grahan Village Trek, Tosh Village etc. Kasol is increasingly becoming a favourite among mountain lovers and peace seekers. This Himalayan hotspot for backpackers and peace lovers, is a hot favourite also among international tourists.
Suggested Tour: Kasol Tour Packages
10. Pondicherry
Also known as Puducherry, this union territory of India is one every traveller’s bucket list. This French Riviera of the east is all about creating a lifetime of memories. Its proximity to tamil and other such nearby South Indian states has turned this place into a melting pot of various cultures and traditions. Taking a walk through will make you come in contact with the well-preserved French colony that is still in pristine condition. Tourists remain spell bound by the exotic colonial architecture, stunning beaches and scenic tourist attractions that cannot be found elsewhere. Tourists from all over the world are bound to visit Pondicherry due to its dreamlike perfect vacation opportunity. Places like paradise beach, Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville and the seaside promenade are few of the favourites among tourists that are safe and much loved.
11. Delhi
National capital of Delhi is truly one of the most loved holiday destinations among domestic as well as international tourists. The international airports and well-connected highways and roads makes Delhi easily reachable to many. With a rich history and having seen innumerable dynasties and empires, every step of the way in Delhi is paved with well preserved and looked after heritage monuments. Delhi has always been the centre of power, arts and culture through the ages. Home to 3 UNESCO world heritage sites of Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and Red Fort, Delhi has been a playground for every history buff and curious soul. The grandiose of Delhi is well known all over the world inviting tourists to explore is wonder.
12. Agra
Agra and tourism in India go hand in hand. Home of the 7th wonder of the world, Taj Mahal, Agra is a place that is a definite crowd puller. It has been a favourite among tourists from all over the world for a very long time now and continues to dominate the tourism charts till date. There are many places to visit in Agra beyond Taj Mahal like Fatehpur Sikri, Buland Darwaza etc. people prefer to couple up an Agra trip with Delhi, which is much more convenient. Having seen tourists throughout the year and since ages, the people of Agra are extremely warm, friendly and helpful when it comes to tourists.
Suggested Tour: Agra Tour Packages
13. Coorg
The stunning, lush green, hill station of Coorg or Kodagu is situated in the district of Karnataka. This wonderful hill station is known for its rich elephant population, large jackfruit trees, intense greenery and a huge spice collection. Lovingly nicknamed ‘The Scotland of India’, Coorg has managed to carve out a special place in the heart of every tourist that has ever visited here. Also popular for its coffee production and gently rolling hills and clear water streams, Coorg is a one of a kind destination in India and a visit here is a must for everyone. The locals are extremely helpful and welcoming that will add a lot of love and comfort to your trip here.
Suggested Tour: Coorg Tour Packages
14. Hampi
Hampi is extremely famous for being a renowned UNESCO world heritage site in Karnataka. This ancient village is well known all over the world for its ancient temples and a well preserved culture. Developed by the Vijaynagar Empire during the 14th century, during its peak years, Hampi was one of the richest cities of India. The outstanding workmanship and architecture here will definitely be a one of a kind experience. Due to its incredible history and welcoming nature of the locals, Hampi has always attracted travellers from different corners of the world. Places like Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Lotus Palace, and Hanuman Temple etc. are extremely famous among travellers. This fact has made Hampi a very tourist friendly destination in India.