With bountiful popular cities in India, the country is a perfect travel destination for both Indian and foreign tourists. India being a versatile country with a sundry of options offers tourists all kinds of activities they can indulge in. In fact, it can be tough to pick one city saying this is the most popular city in India.
Rich cultural heritage, ancient architecture, shopping, dance, and music shows, and food are just a few examples of all the things that one can enjoy and experience in India. From fun and games to historic shows and sightseeing, Indian cities have got it all.
If you are planning to visit most popular city in India, or looking at the list of famous cities in India, let us help you.
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Delhi
Being the capital as an additional attraction, Delhi is the most popular city in India. The capital inhabits people of all states, races, religions, and cultures.
Delhi attracts people from all over India and contains confetti of cultures, emotions, and perspectives. It has a magical aura that makes this place home for travelers, tourists, and students. It is one of the most famous cities of India.
The Delhi metro with its wide network is cheap and any place in Delhi can be reached by availing this facility. The food is also lip-smacking and a must-try.
Here are some of the most amazing tourist places in Delhi which one should not forget to check out.
India Gate
The pride of the nation, India Gate was built as a war memorial for the brave soldiers who died serving the country. India Gate also serves as the most perfect background to click pictures. On Sundays, it can be the perfect picnic spot where local vendors sell refreshments, accessories, and more.
India Gate is opposite the Rashtrapati Bhawan which is the residence of the president of the country. It is a huge, 130-hectare estate and has been crafted with marvelous architecture. India Gate is colorful during all times with huge crowds visiting the monument. The best time to visit India Gate is during Republic Day when one can witness the parade performed in full enthusiasm.
- Open during – 5 am to 11 pm on all days.
- The nearest metro station- Central Secretariat metro station
Red Fort
Another famous tourist place in Delhi, Red fort was built by the Mughals and the name comes from the red stones used in the process. It is an embodiment of the creative Mughal architecture and increases the beauty of the capital city of India.
There is also a market inside Red Fort called Meena Bazaar. One can find all things here ranging from earrings to clothes, bangles to stoles, and all other Indian things.
- Open during – 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on all days except Monday
- Nearest metro station- Lal Qila on the violet line
Other monuments to visit in Delhi include Qutub Minar, Lotus temple, Rajiv Chowk, Humayun’s Tomb, Safdarjung Tomb, and Kashmiri Gate.
The capital has many monuments as it was the center of the Mughal Empire in India. These monuments make Delhi the most popular city in India.
Hauz Khas
The Hauz Khas Fort is a must-visit in South Delhi. It has the remains of the Muslim empire and is also famous for various cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Hauz khas has a big hand in making Delhi the most popular city in India for the youth.
Best time to visit- evening and night
Nearest metro station- Hauz Khas
Sarojini Nagar
The most famous shopping site in Delhi is the Sarojini Nagar. Here one can find the most stylish and trendy clothes at the cheapest rate possible starting from 50 rupees. It is also famous for silver fashion jewelry and mouth-watering street food. Gol gappas, pani puri, aloo Tikki, momos, and many more delicious treats are available here.
You can witness the rush of Delhi crowd here. It is the most radiant shopping shop in the capital.
- Timings- 10 am to 9 pm on all days except Monday
- Nearest metro station- Sarojini Nagar metro station
Other shopping spots in Delhi are- Lajpat Nagar, Kamla Nagar, Connaught place, etc.
Chandni Chowk
Situated in Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is another market which is famous for cheaper prices of all items. From food to apparel, you can find everything here at the best price.
Jama Masjid is another monument nearby which can be reached from Chandni chowk. The paranthe wali Gali in Chandni Chowk is famous for paranthas which are made of whole wheat bread. Non- veg from the Aslam chicken, The Karim’s, etc is famous for the Mughlai taste. The food is at its best and melts inside the mouth like anything.
- Timings- 9:30 am to 8 pm on all days except Sunday
- Nearest metro station- Chandni Chowk metro
Connaught place is also another shopping hub in Delhi, where one can find various branded clothes, home decoration stuff, etc. Palika bazaar is an underground market in Connaught place famous for tattoos and cheap clothes, bags, and other accessories. All such tourist attractions make Delhi the popular city of India.
Agra
Located in Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal makes Agra the most popular city in India. Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and was built in almost 20 years. It was built as a memorial to Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Shajahan the Mughal emperor. It can leave behind all the modern constructions with its evergreen epic charm and one of its style construction.
- Timings- opens 30 mins before sunrise and closes 30 mins before sunset on all days except Friday
- Ticket – for foreign tourists: 1100/- + 200/- additional for visiting the main mausoleum which is optional
- Domestic/ Indian tourists: 50/- + 200/- additional for visiting the main mausoleum
- Other places to visit in Agra are Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Jahangir Mahal, the tomb of Itimad- ud- Daulah, etc.
Tourists can explore the jewels famous in Agra at the Agra Fort, the greenery of the gardens, and the exemplary structures of massive monuments. Besides this, many other monuments in Agra make it the most popular city in India.
The Bedai, jalebis, Dahi Bhalla, and the lip-smacking Mughlai delicacies are some things one should surely try in Agra. The city is also famous for the sweet, petha which is soft and syrupy in taste.
Varanasi
Also called Banaras, it is the pride of the country for its rich cultural heritage, traditions, and rituals. Its cultural and religious significance makes it the most popular city in India. Varanasi became the cultural spot due to the Ganga which is considered as the most sacred river in the Hindu mythology. The river flows through the city and is worshipped by people all over the country. The city is also popular for silk sarees and muslin fabrics.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
The famous Dashashwamedh ghat located near the Vishwanath temple is the most crowded in the evening. People gather from 6 pm to witness the Maha aarti. This arti takes place at the ghat which is the riverside and the whole place is lightened up with sacred flames or diyas.
- Best time to visit- during the evening from 6 pm
- The best part is that it is free of cost and everyone is welcome here.
Varanasi has around 2,000 temples and other spiritual places. It is a pilgrim and also has many monks with saffron clothes all over the city. Many funeral ceremonies happen here daily; also, people take a dip in the sacred Ganga to be cleansed of all their sins.
Other places to visit include the local art galleries to witness the rich art culture in the city. Few popular galleries are the Kirti Art gallery, Mehta Art gallery, and Ruchika Art Gallery. The city is also famous for yoga.
Nainital
Uttarakhand is nothing less than a heaven on Earth. Nainital has the most beautiful and touristy Naini Lake. It is the most popular city in India for summer vacations.
Surrounding the Naini lake in a circle are the local shops and vendors. The most expensive hotels are also placed around the lake. The lake reflects the mesmerizing beauty of the mountains and snow in winters.
This freshwater lake is used to supply water to the whole city and has magnificent bug fishes and other sea animals.
- The city is famous for candles, and they are present in all shapes, sizes, and forms. Fishes, stars, dolls, animals, humans, all types of candles can be found here. There are also aromatic and other scented candles available.
- The Tibetan market on mall road has an exquisite collection of winter wear. The candles and the lakes make Nainital one of the most famous cities of India and the most popular city in India.
- It has the most beautiful sightseeing spot with a snow viewpoint and Naina peak to spot the mountains and the whole lake respectively.
- There is also a zoo called the GB Pant High Altitude Zoo in Nainital.
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Amritsar
Situated in Punjab, Amritsar is another most popular city in India because of the Golden Temple. The temple is made up of real gold and looks radiant at night.
The temple is surrounded by holy lake on all sides in which pilgrims take a dip. The golden temple serves langar to approximately one lakh people per day. This food is free of cost and satiates thousands of homeless people. A staple roti, sabzi, and dal are served along with a sweet dish in the end. People serving at the Langer consider the service as serving God.
The city is also famous for mouth-watering lachha parantha, chole kulcha, and lassi. Many other replicas of the golden temple are built all around the city.
Jaipur
Jaipur, one of the most popular cities in India, enjoys the best charm ever found on earth. This city is full of ancient palaces and forts. The Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amer fort, Jal Mahal are some amazing reflections of Indian architectural beauty .
- Hawa Mahal open from- 9:30 am to 5 pm
- Entry fee- for Indian: 50/-
- For foreigners- 200/-
- Amer fort timings- 8 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry fee- 200/-
The surroundings of these palaces and forts are occupied by the local shops and vendors where tourists can get a glimpse of the rich Rajasthani culture.
- Wooden showpieces, stone statues, handcrafted bags with Jaipuri work, colorful bangles, clothes, etc are the popular souvenirs from this place.
- Jaipur is also famous for Bandhani sarees, dupattas, meenakari work items, mojris, etc.
- The Rajasthani thalis and dal bati churma are some of the authentic cuisine tourists should not miss.
Kolkata
This is another popular city in India that is better known as the Home town of Rabindra Nath Tagor ji. The Howrah Bridge, the Victorian Museum, and the sweets are some famous tourist places of Kolkata.
Victorian Museum
It is a huge white marble museum with a rich colonial history, dedicated to Queen Victoria and has the English royal works placed inside. A light and sound show is called Son-et- Lumiere is the main attraction of this place. It remains closed from July to September.
Other places of interest are St. Paul’s Cathedral, Newmarket Kolkata for shopping, South park Street cemetery, and marble palace for sightseeing. Tourists should not miss the Kolkata’s signature fish fry and the Bengali sweet rasgulla.
Mumbai
Ranking always in the list of the most famous cities of India, Mumbai needs no introduction. With its countless attractions, Mumbai is one of the popular city in India.
Marine Drive
This around 4 km stretch is extremely glittery during the night. It is the best spot for seeing the setting sun and also for casual morning walks beside the waves in the sea. People go for long drives in this stretch all the time.
- Best time to visit- during sunsets and nights.
Gateway of India
It was built during the British Raj and one can go to this soothing place for the zephyr of soft winds and admire this brilliant creation.
Mumbai street food is dominated by Vada Pav famous all over Maharashtra. It sold from 15-100/- on the streets of Bombay.
Goa
Visited by Indian and foreign tourists alike for its beaches, and parties, Goa is the most popular city in India for partying. It has a wide range of beaches perfect for building sandcastles and staring at the sunset from the seashore. It is famous for its Portuguese heritage, nightlife, and Goan cuisine.
Baga, Palolem, Mandrem, and Arambol are few of the most popular beaches which also serve refreshing drinks and food. Tourists should not miss the Beach shack dining and the beach water sports.
The Goa film festival is famous and even the new year parties create a huge buzz. Such attractions make Goa one of the most famous cities of India.
- Best time to visit- during winter to avoid the heat.
- Do not forget to try the scrumptious Goan sausages.
Hyderabad
Also called the city of pearls, Hyderabad is another famous city in India for varied reasons. Its climate, culture, food, cost of living and work oppurtunities make it on of the popular city in India.
Charminar
The ultimate landmark of Hyderabad, the ideal time to visit Charminar is in the evening. The lights of the monument as well as the road side vendors dazzle the whole place. It is also a shopping heaven for beautiful jewelry, Indian apparel, juthis and many more. It is also one of the best places in Hyderabad to taste Mughlai and authentic Hyderabad cuisine.
The Hussain Sagar Lake is another tourist spot in Hyderabad in the center of which lies a huge Buddha statue. Boat riding, and light shows are popular tourist activities here.
- Boat ride to Buddha statue- 55/- for adults, 35/- for children
- Timings- 10:30 am to 8pm
Mysuru
This is another royal tourist city of India that offers an entirely different experience to tourists. The city is clean, easy to navigate and the climate is comfortable for sightseeing all throughout the year.
Mysore palace
This palace displays the most amazing blend of Rajputana, Gothi, and Islamic culture and architecture.
- Timings- 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry fee- 70/- for adults, 30/- for children, 10/- for students
- The lighting takes place between 7-7:45 pm on Sundays and public holidays.
Similar such royal monuments make Mysore a popular city in India. Other places to visit are the Brindavan Garden, karanji lake, Sri ChamaRajendra Zoological garden, and many more spots.
The city is also popular for south Indian food, Sandalwood, and Mysore silk sarees, etc. A popular shopping place in Mysore is the Devaraja market.
Bengaluru
The IT hub and the most popular city in India, Bangalore is rich in greenery, parks, and nightlife.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
This is one of the famous tourist places in Bangalore which enjoys a history of decades.
- Timings- 6 am to 7 pm
- Entry fee- 20/- per person above the age of 12 years.
Bangalore Palace
It is yet another palace famous for its interiors. It is a beautiful palace with big open spaces and gardens.
- Timings- 10am to 5:30pm
- Entry fee- 230/- for Indians, 460/- for foreigners
Commercial Street in Bengaluru is famous for shopping at reasonable rates. The city is also famous for Bisibela bath and masala dosa.
Pondicherry
This city is ideal to experience the French legacy and it is the most popular city in India for its beaches. Here we can see the French quarters and colonial villas.
Auroville Visitors Centre
It is a meditation center, and offers peace and calm to its visitors.
- Timings- 9 am to 4 pm from Monday to Saturday
- Best time to visit- November to March
Lady Des Angels – Notre Dames Church
It is one of the oldest churches in Pondicherry, built in Greco-Roman architecture. The best time to visit the church is on Sundays. Pondicherry is also famous for neat and clean beaches, Hindu temples, boutiques, and café culture.
These are a few of the most amazing and famous cities of the Incredible India for both local and foreign travelers to visit throughout the year. These places can be visited easily with friends and family in a whole package. Fun, games, parties, and scenic beauty – Indian cities offer them all in a single go.
Chennai
The cultural capital of India, Chennai boasts of temples, shopping malls and beaches. The food options in Chennai will make you linger for them more. Shopping in Chennai includes handloom sarees, wooden toys, sandalwood, jasmines, and handmade items. Chennai is one of the popular cities in India and you can find people of various cultures living here.
Trivandrum
A silent and peaceful city in India, Trivandrum is another popular city for tourists. Its famous landmark Anantha Padmanabha Temple as well the beaches Varkala and Kovalam gives it a place on the international tourism map. Sea food lovers get spoilt with choice here, while vegetarians can enjoy the traditional Kerala cuisine made in pure coconut oil. Kasavu sarees, wooden items, and coir made items are famous souvenirs from here.