1.Srinagar
- Famously known as ‘Heaven on Earth, Srinagar is located in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, on the banks of river Jhelum. Srinagar is known for the stationary houseboats and gondola-type rowboats- Shikaras on Dal Lake. Adorned with tranquil Dal Lake & Nigeen Lake, Srinagar is the dream destination for honeymoon and family holidays.
- The tourists use Shikaras to see attractions like the Floating Vegetable Market and the Mir Bahris – a lively community of people who live on the lake itself. In addition, there are a lot of houseboats that provide a beautiful and unique stay experience on the lake. Srinagar is home to some of India’s most exquisite Mughal-age gardens, with the top attractions being Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashm-E-Shahi Garden. It is also home to Asia’s largest tulip garden.
- Kashmiri cuisine or Wazwan is famous all over the globe. So when in Srinagar, trying out the local dishes, which are rich in unique fragrant spices, is a must. Srinagar is also famous for the Kashmiri shawls, Kashmiri apples, and dried fruits (almonds and walnuts) from the Lal Chowk Market.
- Heavy snowfall affects the connectivity of Srinagar during the winter months of December to February. Communal tensions also lead to frequent curfews in some parts of the city; however, things have improved in the past few years. So, make sure to check the situation before visiting.
2.Leh Ladakh
- Ladakh is a union territory in the Kashmir region of India. Formerly falling in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh was administered a union territory on 31st October 2019. Extending from the Siachen Glacier to the main Great Himalayas, Ladakh is a land like no other. Dominated by dramatic landscapes, Ladakh is known as the world’s coldest desert.
- Stunning Gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries), fluttering prayer flags, whitewashed stupas, Ladakh is a riot of intricate murals and red-robed monks. With a culture similar to the Tibetans, the people of Ladakh are friendly and welcoming to tourists.
- Ladakh is divided into two districts: district Leh and district Kargil. The former district has a famous town, “Leh”, and is a great tourist attraction because of its beautiful monasteries nearby, Shanti Stupa, cafes and Leh Bazaar defining the place’s culture.
- Ladakh is an adventure playground for rafting and high-altitude trekking. Note that Leh Ladakh is inaccessible by road outside the summer months. The route passes close altogether from around October to May, and the only way to reach is by air. Chadar trek on frozen Zanskar river takes place in January to the end of February.
3.Gangtok
- Incredibly alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds – Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Lying at the height of 1650 m above sea level, the town during its bright sunny days offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is a base for adventure enthusiasts comprising of trekkers and campers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. Dzongri Trek, Varsey/Barsey Trek, and Tholung Trek are among the most popular treks departing from Gangtok.
- The possibility of paragliding and hang gliding is also not far from Gangtok. The capital city serves as an excellent starting point for mountain biking excursions. During the months of March to Mid-May, blooming of wild Rhododendrons transform the surrounding regions in vast fields of colourful carpets.
- Gangtok has an eclectic nightlife as well. Its popular MG Road is lined with trendy restaurants and pubs that stay open until 11 p.m. The location is also ideal for shopaholics, and with shops open until late at night, tourists have more time to purchase Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and tea products. Read more about Shopping in Gangtok.
4.Andaman
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands comprises 572 islands, only 37 of which are inhabited, and a few are open to tourists. Havelock Island is one of the largest and the most popular islands of all Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Travellers typically enter from Port Blair via flight or ship and spend multiple nights in Havelock and Neil Islands that offer some great resorts.
- The southern coast of the Havelock island has the charming Radhanagar Beach, while the azure beauty of Vijayanagar Beach is situated towards the east of the island. Perhaps the most endearing feature of Neil island is its three sandy beaches, namely Bharatpur Beach,Sitapur Beach and Lakshmanpur Beaches.
- Port Blair is generally used as a base city to catch ferries to nearby islands. However, tourists also spend a day or two here to explore the town and nearby beaches. People also take day trips to Ross Island and North Bay Island or Baratang and Jolly Buoy island from Port Blair.
5.Manali
- Over the last few years, Manali has evolved into a place loved by young people looking for more extended stays. With ambient cafes, good wifi availability, small eateries, and convenient shops, Old Manali is among the favorite neighborhood for such people. In addition, many homestays and hostels offer dorm beds for cheap for longer durations.
- Apart from vacations and workations, Manali is a must-visit for trekkers, as it’s an excellent base for exploring this side of the Himalayas. River Beas provides great rafting options in the nearby town of Kullu. Adjoining the Parvati river lies the Parvati Valley, with Kasol, Manikaran, Tosh, and small villages attracting travelers for extended stays. Atal Tunnel allows travelers to reach Sissu within a few hours, making Spiti more accessible.
- Tourists flock to Rohtang Pass & Solang valley for various adventure activities, including skiing, paragliding, horse-riding & zorbing. It snows the most in January & February, followed by December and March. If you’re fortunate, you might find some snow in April.