With a booming tourism industry, it comes as no surprise that millions of travellers flock to India each year to explore its wonders. But, even more than foreign tourism, domestic tourism in India is an even bigger industry!
Top 10 Famous Cities in India to Visit in 2025
Here are the best cities to visit in India now—truly must-visit cities in India, combining cultural richness, historical depth, and modern flair:
- Goa – India’s beach paradise, offering sun, sand, nightlife, and Indo‑Portuguese charm
- Delhi – India’s capital, a cultural powerhouse marked by landmarks like the Red Fort, India Gate, and bustling markets. Ranked #1 for repeat visitor interest in 2025
- Mumbai – The vibrant "City of Dreams," known for its fast-paced energy, nightlife, and iconic sites like Marine Drive and the Gateway of India
- Jaipur – The Pink City of the Golden Triangle, home to majestic forts, royal palaces, and rich Rajasthani culture
- Agra – Famous worldwide for the Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and architectural grandeur
- Udaipur – Revered as the "Venice of the East," surrounded by serene lakes, palaces, and romantic landscapes
- Kolkata – A city of culture and colonial charm, rich in festivals, art, and literature
- Bengaluru – India’s Garden City, known for its greenery, innovative spirit, and cosmopolitan vibe
- Chennai – The cultural and music capital of South India, noted for its heritage, street food, and beach experiences
- Varanasi – One of the world’s oldest living cities, where spirituality, rituals, and the Ganges converge in a timeless experience
Beyond the Top 10: Other Popular and Must-Visit Cities
While the focus is on the top ten, India brims with other noteworthy destinations:
- Darjeeling, Coorg, Ladakh — Hill stations offering serene landscapes, tea estates, and Himalayan vistas
- Jodhpur & Jaisalmer — Desert cities with majestic forts and rich Rajasthani heritage
- Hampi — Ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage site in Karnataka
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands — Pristine beaches and marine life, ideal for adventure
Mumbai
Mumbai, often referred to as the "City of Dreams," is undoubtedly one of the best cities in India for domestic tourism. This bustling metropolis has something to offer for everyone, making it an ideal destination for travellers from all walks of life. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, a food lover, or just someone looking to experience the vibrant culture of India, Mumbai has it all.
One of the main reasons why Mumbai is a great city for domestic tourism is its rich cultural heritage. All over the city, you can find landmarks from recent history as well as from hundreds, if not thousands of years ago.
Mumbai also has a thriving nightlife scene and lots of events taking place throughout the city on any given day, like the Mumbai International Film Festival.
Best Attractions: Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Haji Ali Dargah, Marine Drive, Juhu Beach, Bandra-Worli Sea-Link Bridge, Ferozeshah Mehta, Babulnath Mandir.
Best Food: Gulshan-e-Iran, Merwan’s, Guru Kripa, Jai Jawan, Jyran, Lotus Cafe, The Earth Plate, Fiona, Namak.
Best Time to Visit: October to February is the most comfortable, but if you’re used to the heat you could even visit in March to May before the Monsoon season begins in June through September.
Bandra Worli Sea Link is the first and the longest sea link bridge in India. It is an 8-lane cable-stayed bridge, spanning about 5600 meters in length and towering to a height of 126 meters.
Jaipur
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a treasure trove of sightseeing opportunities and rich culture that will leave you mesmerized. From majestic palaces to vibrant bazaars, this city has it all.
This historic city is bursting with incredible architectural marvels and heritage sites.
Apart from its sightseeing attractions, Jaipur is also known for its vibrant culture. The city's markets are a paradise for shopaholics, offering everything from colourful textiles to exquisite jewellery. The traditional Rajasthani cuisine, with its flavoursome curries and delectable sweets, is a treat for food lovers.
And if you're lucky, you might even get to witness a lively folk dance performance or attend a traditional music concert during your visit to Jaipur.
Best Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Elefantastic, Mukesh Art Gallery, Patrika Gate, Govind Dev Ji Temple, Anokhi Museum, Johri bazaar, Taj Lake Palace.
Best Food: The Verandah, Hotel Sweet Dream Restaurant, The Royal Root, Govindam Retreat, Steam, Monarch Restaurant, Hawk View Restaurant and Bar.
Best Time to Visit: November to March is when the temperature is the most bearable. Unless you’re already very used to hot temps, avoid visiting in the summer. The monsoon season from July to October also tends to be quite warm with unfavourable weather, so it’s not recommended.
80% more than 2022 according to the Times Of India.
Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city that truly captures the essence of India. It is a city where spirituality and culture intertwine, creating an atmosphere that is both enchanting and captivating. One of the reasons why Varanasi is a great city for domestic tourism is its breathtaking views. The city is situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the river and its ghats. Whether you are taking a boat ride along the river or simply strolling along the ghats, the view of the river is truly mesmerizing.
The sunrise and sunset in Varanasi are especially enchanting, with the golden hues reflecting off the water, creating a magical ambience.
Best Attractions: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Assi Ghat, Dasaswamedh Ghat, Ganga Aarti, Tulsi Manas Temple, Monkey Temple (Durga Temple), Ramnagar Fort & Museum, Godowila Market.
Best Food: Bowl of Compassion, Brown Bread Bakery, Aadha-Aadha Cafe, Vishnu Tea Emporium, Ram Bhandar, Deena Chaat Bhandar, Blue Lassi Shop, Rajendra Chaurasia Paan
Best Time to Visit: The temperatures in Varanasi are the best from October to February/March. The summer heat can be sweltering and the heat combined with monsoon rains can be too much to handle, while also literally raining on your parade. But, if you want to beat tourist season and don’t mind the weather, it can be a great time to avoid crowds!
The city is renowned for its ghats along the Ganges River, temples, and spiritual ambiance, drawing pilgrims, tourists, and researchers from around the world.
Udaipur
Udaipur, often referred to as the "City of Lakes," is a captivating destination that offers a plethora of cultural experiences and breathtaking sights. It is no wonder that it has become a top choice for domestic tourists.
The city's rich culture is evident in its magnificent palaces, ancient temples, and vibrant festivals. Whether you're strolling through the narrow lanes of the old city or exploring the majestic City Palace, you can't help but be immersed in the city's history and heritage.
Udaipur also boasts stunning lakes, including Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake, which provide a scenic backdrop for boat rides and leisurely walks along the waterfront. The city's beauty is not limited to its man-made wonders; it is also surrounded by the Aravalli hills, offering breathtaking views and a chance to reconnect with nature. With its blend of culture, sightseeing opportunities, and natural beauty, Udaipur truly deserves its reputation as a great city for tourism.
Best Attractions: City Palace & Museum, Jagdish Temple, Lake Pichola, Bagore Ki Haveli Museum, Sri Ekling Ji Temple, Srinathji Temple, Sahelion Ki Bari, Shilpgram, Jagmandir.
Best Food: Raaj Bagh, Myra, Poornima, Jain Nashta Centre, Vinod Coffee House, Manak Balaji, Fatehsagar, Shankar, Restaurant Harigarh, Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant, Khamma Ghani.
Best Time to Visit: September to March has the most agreeable temperatures and weather. Summer and monsoon season can be too hot and uncomfortable for exploring the city.
Five of the prominent lakes, including Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola, Swaroop Sagar Lake, Rangsagar, and Doodh Talai Lake, are part of the restoration project under the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) initiated by the GOI. Lake Pichola, located in Udaipur city in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is an artificial freshwater lake created in 1362 and named after the nearby Picholi village.
Kolkata
Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers a plethora of opportunities for domestic tourists to explore and experience. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality, Kolkata has become a popular destination for travellers from all over the country.
Kolkata is a great city for domestic tourism due to its diverse range of attractions, vibrant street food culture, and rich festivals and cultural events.
Whether you want to explore the historical landmarks, indulge in mouthwatering street food, or experience the city's festive spirit, Kolkata has something to offer for everyone.
Best Attractions: Dakshineswar And Kalighat Temple, Victoria Memorial Palace, Science City, Howrah Bridge, Eden Garden, State Archaeological Gallery, Prinsep Ghat, The Marble Palace, The Indian Museum, Mallick Ghat Flower Market, Birla Temple.
Best Food: Zaika, Mitra Cafe, Girish Chandra Dey, Nakur Chandra Nandy, Badri Ki Kachori, Putiram, Swadhin Bharat Hindu Hotel, Sufia Restaurant, Hotel Sidheshwari Ashram.
Best Time to Visit: October to February offer the most ideal weather conditions for exploring the city. Summer in Kolkata is extremely hot and humid, not ideal for venturing outdoors. Monsoon season can be bearable if you’re already used to heat and humidity.
The Kolkata Suburban Railway consists of 458 stations and spans a track length of 1,501 km. It runs 1450 EMU services and 159 MEMU services, transporting a daily average of 3.1 million (31.51 lakhs) passengers.
Ooty
Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Mountains of Tamil Nadu. With its breathtaking sights and numerous attractions, it is no wonder that Ooty has become a popular destination for tourists from all over India. One of the main reasons why people love to visit Ooty is due to its stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by lush green hills, tea plantations, and serene lakes, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. Whether it's taking a leisurely stroll through the famous Ooty Botanical Gardens or enjoying a boat ride in the peaceful Ooty Lake, there is no shortage of scenic spots to explore. Ooty also boasts several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, making it a photographer's paradise.
Best Attractions: Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Garden & Rose Garden, Ooty Lake, Fernhills Palace, Elk Hill Murugan Temple, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Emerald Lake, Dolphin’s Nose, Thread Garden, Kalhatti Falls, Kotagiri, Annamalai Temple
Best Food: Garden Restaurant, Blueberry Cafe, Earl’s Secret, Sugar Dribble, Angaara, Toda Cafe, Ooty Coffee House, Kailash Parbat.
Best Time to Visit: Finally, a destination with a longer ideal season! Visiting Ooty is best in the winter, from October to March when the weather is dry and pleasantly cool. June to September is the off-season because the visibility is low, but the weather is again rather pleasant. April to May can be nice as well but expect torrential rain often.
Surrounded By Beautiful Nilgiri Hills! The town has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
Agra
With its rich heritage and historic significance, Agra offers an unparalleled experience to visitors. The city is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the magnificent Taj Mahal. This iconic monument stands as a testament to the eternal love between Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal's architectural brilliance, intricate carvings, and mesmerizing beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture.
Best Attractions: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Jahangir Mahal, Jama Masjid, Mehtab Bagh, Anguri Bagh, Dayal Bagh, Humayun’s Mosque, Itimad-Ud-Daulah, Yamuna River, Kinari Bazaar, Kalakriti Dance Drama Show.
Best Food: Panchhi Petha, Ram Babu Paratha Bhandar, Pinch of Spice, Agra Chat House, Mama Chicken Mama Franky, Pind Balluchi, Molecule Air Bar, Palm Burj, The Salt Cafe Kitchen & Bar, Biryani by Kilo, The Nawaabs.
Best Time to Visit: Peak season in Uttar Pradesh is November to February when the temps are low and the skies are clear. You can also visit from July to September but expect heat, humidity, and scattered rains. From April to July, the heat is extreme, but the air is dry rather than humid. If you stay hydrated, you may be able to venture out in the day!
The Taj Mahal draws in between 7 and 8 million visitors every year, including over 0.8 million from other countries. The majority of tourists come during the cooler months of October, November, and February.
Darjeeling
With its breathtaking sights and enchanting atmosphere, it is no wonder that it is such a popular destination for holidaymakers. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Whether you are seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply want to immerse yourself in a different culture, Darjeeling has something for everyone. Its incredible sights and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for domestic tourists looking for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Best Attractions: Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tea Plantations (many different ones), Sandakphu Peak, Chowk Bazaar, Darjeeling Ropeway, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Ghoom Monastery, Observatory Hill, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Barbotey Garden.
Best Food: Devekas Restaurant, Kunga Restaurant, Revolver Restaurant, Keventer’s, Hot Stimulating Cafe, Hasty Tasty, Nawangs Restaurant, The House of Tea, Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge.
Best Time to Visit: April to June is the most pleasant time to visit Darjeeling since it’s cool with good weather.
The monsoon rains in July through October can make the temperature plummet and soak unprepared adventurers, but the land is a gorgeous green paradise. From October to March, the weather is calmer but the temperatures are much colder. If you’re used to cold weather, it can be worth going in the winter to avoid tourist crowds.
The Tea Board of India acknowledges 87 tea estates, also known as "tea gardens," as the producers of Darjeeling tea. Together, they encompass 17,500 hectares of land.
Chennai
Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a plethora of activities and sights for domestic tourists. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, Chennai has something for everyone. One of the main reasons why Chennai is a great city for domestic tourism is the wide range of activities available. From water sports like surfing and kayaking along the picturesque Marina Beach to exploring the city's rich cultural heritage through dance and music performances, there is never a dull moment in Chennai.
Additionally, the city is home to numerous amusement parks and theme parks that provide fun-filled experiences for families and children.
Best Attractions: Besant Nagar, Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), Fort St. George, Kapaleeshwar Temple, Marina Beach, Government Museum, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Mylapore, Queensland, Guindy National Park, National Art Gallery, Ubbalamadugu Falls, Dakshinachitra Museum, MGM Dizzee World, Vadapazhani Murugan Temple.
Best Food: Murugan Idly Shop, Kakada Ramprasad, Ganga Chats, Atho Man, Vishnu's Pani Puris, Gangotree, Shree Mithai, Anachi Dosai Kadai, Nair Mess, Kaaraikudi, The Old Madras Cafe, Sri Karpagambal Kapali Sweet Stall, The Reef, Ministry of Chutneys, Seasonal Tastes, Dakshin, Paprika Cafe.
Best Time to Visit: October to February is the best time to visit to avoid the heat, humidity, and rain. The summer, from March to June, can be extremely hot and unpleasant. The monsoon season cools the air down a bit, but the heavy rainfall can prevent a fun vacation and even cause flooding in some areas.
A Vaishnavite temple in Chennai, India is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, a Hindu deity.
Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra and the wettest place on earth, is a captivating city that should be on every domestic traveller's bucket list. This enchanting destination offers a plethora of outdoor activities and thrilling adventures that are sure to leave you breathless. From its picturesque landscapes to its adrenaline-pumping experiences, Cherrapunji is full of adventure.
The city boasts numerous trekking trails that lead you through lush green forests, past cascading waterfalls, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. The experience of hiking through the misty hills and being surrounded by the beauty of nature is truly unparalleled.
Best Attractions: Seven Sister Falls, Rainbow Falls, Living Root Bridges (many), Dainthlen Waterfall, Khasi Monoliths, Mawsmai Cave, Mawsmai Falls, Krem Phyllut, Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsynram Village, Mawkdok Dympep Valley, Wakaba Falls, Arwah Cave, Ka Khoh Ramhah.
Best Food: Chef Cherrapunjee, Orange Roots, Avron Restaurant, Halari Restaurant, Jiva Grill, D Cloud Restaurant, Golden Spoon Dhaba, Halari Restaurant, Joyous Dhaba, Mk Sevenstar Homestay and Restaurant.
Best Time to Visit: From March to May, the weather is as dry as it will ever be in this land of continuous rain. Temperatures at this time can be cool to mildly warm. It’s a great time to visit!
You can also visit from October to February for lighter rain and beautiful landscapes, although visibility may be limited due to clouds and humidity. June to September is not recommended due to the extreme amount of rain the area receives.
Cherrapunji, known as the Wettest place on Earth, has set numerous world records for the highest recorded rainfall in history. However, Cherrapunji Rainfall has not always held the top position.
List of the Most Famous Cities in India
Want to see the top 50 cities in India for tourism? Check out this list explaining just that!
| City | City | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Delhi | 26 | Visakhapatnam |
| 2 | Mumbai | 27 | Chandigarh |
| 3 | Jaipur | 28 | Guwahati |
| 4 | Agra | 29 | Pondicherry |
| 5 | Varansi | 30 | Haridwar |
| 6 | Udaipur | 31 | Vadodara (Baroda) |
| 7 | Kolkata | 32 | Jodhpur |
| 8 | Chennai | 33 | Kozhikode (Calicut) |
| 9 | Bengaluru | 34 | Madurai |
| 10 | Hyderabad | 35 | Allahabad |
| 11 | Kochi | 36 | Ranchi |
| 12 | Amritsar | 37 | Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) |
| 13 | Jaisalmer | 38 | Siliguri |
| 14 | Shimla | 39 | Aizawl |
| 15 | Panjim | 40 | Dehradun |
| 16 | Mysuru | 41 | Vijayawada |
| 17 | Pune | 42 | Jamshedpur |
| 18 | Lucknow | 43 | Jabalpur |
| 19 | Darjeeling | 44 | Raipur |
| 20 | Rishikesk | 45 | Rajkot |
| 21 | Kanpur | 46 | Kollam (Quilon) |
| 22 | Nagpur | 47 | Gaya |
| 23 | Indore | 48 | Tiruchirappelli (Trichy) |
| 24 | Bhopal | 49 | Nashik |
| 25 | Aurangabad | 50 | Rourkela |
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