6 Best places to visit in India for youngsters

1. Goa

Goa is one of the successfully developing nations of the south India which is well known by its appropriate beaches, terrific night life and portuguese influence. Covering over 100 kms of coastline it offers a whole lot of isolated gems such as the Palolem and the more bustling and party like Baga and Anjuna. Apart from splendid beaches, Goa has cultural taste of vivid markets, touch of colonial era structures, and other cuisines. The thrill-seeking and relaxation seeking travelers will find the state appropriate for tourism because it comprises water activities and the historic forts and cathedrals.

How to Reach

Goa Transportation Options

• By Air: GOI is the primary airport is Dabolim connected to other states of India and international airports. There are taxis and ride selling apps that can be hired at the airport.
• By Train: Goa has Margão, Thivim, and Vasco da Gama railway station connecting to Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore and other places.
• By Road: NH 66 joining Goa with Mumbai and Bangalore and regular and deluxe buses are available, both private and those operated by the state transport.
• By Sea: On arrival, Goa can be accessed either by sea from Mumbai or any coast line city which are provided by few cruise lines.

Places to Stay

• Luxury: Taj Exotica Established: 1996 The Leela Goa Established: 2001
• Mid-Range: Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort & Casa Vagator
• Budget: Zostel Goa, The Hosteller Goa

Things to Do

Beaches: Sunbathe at Baga, Anjuna and Palolem Beach.

• Historical Sites: Go to Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort and The Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Adventure: Visit the Calangute Beach for water sports, go for Dolphin Sightseeing trips and go for Honeymoon at Dudhsagar Falls.
• Nightlife: Savor the nightlife @Tito’s Lane, Club Cubana and Mambo’s

Best Time to Visit

November to March: It is characterised by good weather and is perfect for beach related adventures, tourism, and even sampling the various fun celebrations and nights out.

What to Eat

• Local Cuisine: Occasionally, you would get to taste some of the regular dishes such as Vindaloo, Prawn Balchão, Goan Fish Curry etc.
• Snacks: Try the Goan alcohol also called Feni and the Goan pastry called Bebinca.
• Seafood: Treat yourself to some delicious fish in form of stuffed squid, king fish and the delicious crab xec xec.

2. Kerala

Kerala mostly referred to as “God’s Own Country” is a beautiful country in South India. Kaleidoscopically, Kerala is obversely famous for the lush green fields and backwaters and more importantly as a giant cultural state. It offers a broad sort of feel – from energetic ball and structure and old temples to more comforting houseboat journey in the back waters. Because of its geographic nature that includes beautiful sandy shore line golden seashore together with wealthy Ayurveda’s cutural historical past in maintaining health and nicely-being, it has emerge as a popular vacationer vacation spot for all varieties of vacationers and streakers.

How to Reach

Kerala Travel Guide

• By Air: Thus, Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport and Calicut International Airport are nearby.
• By Train: Kerala has a broad railway network and some of it is the Trivandrum Central, Kochi (Ernakulam Junction) and Kozhikode.
• By Road: The two main national high ways are from Mumbai to Kanyakumari and from Cochin to salem pass through kerala.
• Travel tips: The climate for tourism is the best during the months of October, November, December, January, February and March.
• Travel duration: Master plan regarding 1- 2 days depending of the starting point.

Places to Stay:

• Backwater Resorts: Costly house boats in Kumarakom and Alleppey that’s totally a fascinating and amiable trip.
• Hill Stations: For beautiful tea gardens and relatively low temperatures, the tourists should go to Munnar or Wayanad.
• Beachfront Hotels: Beach and sun destination are Kovalam, Varkala and Marari.

Things to Do:

• Backwater Cruises: Visit the houseboats of the Alleppey or Kumarakom and take a boat journey of those calm and pretty back waters of Kerala.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: For nature walks and other wildlife activities one can visit the famous Periyar national park or the Wayanad wildlife sanctuary.
• Cultural experiences: are centering themselves at the monuments and temple, observing the Theyyam dance form, and watching Kathakali.

Best Time to Visit:

• September to March: Considering humidity, the temperatures within this area are moderate during this time of the year and specifically for tourists this would be a good season for sightseeing.
• Monsoon Season (June to August): If you want to likely enjoy the beautiful vegetation and relative quiet, now is a good time to do it.

What to Eat:

• Appam and Stew – ‘Appam and stew’- special dish very often taken in the breakfast which includes appam – a type of fermented rice cake and a hot meat or vegetable stew.
• Kerala Sadya –It is the normal lunch that is taken by Keralites on a banana leaf consisting of rice, sambar, avial, and payasam.
• Fish Curry – This is another dish that goes well with rice

3. Kashmir

Kashmir, which means ‘the abode of Siva’, is another enchanting state of India in the north that has been famous all over the world for its snow peaked mountains, immensely beautiful alienated valleys and superb awaken environment. Subsequently, it is a beautiful place with its crystal herbal lakes and attractive gardens and it is embedded between the Himalayas which adds on its natural beauty having a rich cultural history. While Srinagar, referred to as the summer season capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is most popular for its lawn and houseboats, Gulmarg and Pahalgam acted famous for adventure sports and natural beauty amongst them. Some go to Kashmir because of attraction and heat, however the place has undergone political and territory wars despite its natural beauty.

How to Reach

Kashmir Travel Guide

• By Air: Head to Srinagar Airport (Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport) for closeness to other Indian cities.
• By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest rail head or the biggest railway station to the Kashmir.
• By Road: Available for road transport from several planned cities such as Delhi through the National Highway – NH44; there are buses and private taxis available.

Places to Stay

• Srinagar:
  • The Lalit Grand Palace – The stay with Lazy till lunch along with the mesmerizing view of the Dal Lake.
  • Since Srinagar is famous for its houseboats, the visitors are offered the opportunity to stay in a houseboat on Dal Lake.
• Gulmarg:
  • Hotel Hilltop – Comfortable accommodation with window view of the snow capped hills.
  • Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa – Luxury, Ski resort, Ski in and Ski out.
• Pahalgam:
  • Hotel Hilltop Pahalgam – A Hotel with a beautiful scenic view with comfortable rooms for tourists.
  • Pine View Hotel – A cheap hotel that is located near a lovely scenery.

Things to Do

• Srinagar:
  • Shikara ride in the Dal Lake – Take a tranquil boat ride on the Dal.
  • Gardens of Mughals – Take a tour on Nishat Bagh & Shalimar Bagh garden.
• Gulmarg:
  • Entry Fee for Gulmarg Gondola Ride – It is one of the highest cable car toys in the world and which provides the views.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding-Step out for the thrills of winter sports to be enjoyed on the slopes of snow.
• Pahalgam:
  • Betaab Valley – Good for one day picnics and best for photography.
  • Aru Valley Trekking – During this trek tourists will be able to move through magnificent meadows and landscapes.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (April to June): Great for tourism and activities that align with optimal climates, that is, good weather.
• Winter (November to February): Suitable for skiing and other winter sports also winter wonders of nature.

What to Eat

• Rogan Josh: Having never tasted a mutton curry I was expecting a mild, somewhat bland flavour but boy was I wrong.
• Gushtaba: Meatballs which are soft and juicy, and boiled with yogurt based gravy.
• Kahwa: The SP had a traditional Chinese saffron tea base with added cardamom and clove flavors.
• Yakhni: A curry prepared from yogurt which is typical to the royal creal kitchen and may contain either minced lamb or chicken.
• Kashmiri Pulao: A rice recipe with nuts and spices and a good smell.

4. Pondicherry

If one is interested in a subculture that has more color, the French colony of Pondicherry in the South of India is the best place to be in for seeing beautiful French built architectures and fine sea shores. The town can be characterized by the rather low-key Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the beautiful Promenade Beach, and the network of rather austere Auroville. The town has a blend of some ancient beauty associated with ancient architecture and present day attractions. Its French Quarter that has boulevards retorted with bushes and bright homes delivering a colonial look and taste and the food appropriately French-South Indian. Still, Pondicherry is good for relaxation and is an excellent place which gives a pleasant and satisfying impression.

How to Reach 

Pondicherry Transportation Overview

• By Air: A smaller airport, Puducherry (PNY) is slightly closer than Chennai, however, it has poor connection.
• By Train: Puducherry Railway Station (PDY) provides transport facility of the cities such as Chennai and Bangalore to Pondicherry.
• By Road: NH 32 starting from Chennai or Bangalore also, otherwise by private or APSRTC VOLVO and other luxury buses.
• By Bus: Both privately owned companies and government provide services from major cities with luxury, semi luxury and normal buses.

Places to Stay:

• Heritage Hotels: La Villa Shanti or The Promenade colonial style hotels are also something that you will definitely enjoy staying at.
• Boutique Resorts: For luxury, Le Pondy, Palais de Mahe or If you are part of the mainstream tourist circuit.
• Budget Options: Budget but nice accommodations that one could opt for are The Lotus Hotel and Hotel Du Parc.

Things to Do:

• Explore the French Quarter: Stroll around the beautiful White Town area noticing the French colonial influence on the architectural designs.
• Visit Auroville: Visit this utopian experimentalists’ island based on non-violence and the collectivity of souls.
• Relax at Beaches: For sand and sun head to Serenity and Auro beaches.
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Feel the spirituality in this place that is such a center for many people.

Best Time to Visit:

• November to March: This season is characterized by relatively low temperatures and low humidity to the extent that they have little rain to interfere with visitors’ exploration of the sites in the region.

What to Eat:

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy Tamil cousines such as Dosa, Idli and Sambar.
• French Influence: Take meals from café which include croissants and baguettes as well as other French breads.
• Seafood Delights: Savor delightful fish curry at restaurants and hot prawn masala at restaurants or seafood stalls.

Also Read | 15 best places to visit in India

5. Manali

Manali is well-known for its initializing tourist spot /the beauty of greenary and involving sports. This place is situated in the valley known as Kullu to of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Complemented by snow covered mountains and greenery in form of tall grass, it is a perfect natural retreat. Take a stroll to the historic village of Manali, go in for some trekking-skiing or try paragliding, or go for a boat ride in the Bees River. The traffic in Manali is high with regards to temperature, markets and tourist populated pedestrian zones; however it may still offer good entertainment and leisure.

How to Reach

Manali Transportation Guide

• By Road: 540 km from Delhi 12-14 hours to Chandigarh via National Highway 44 then National Highway 3 to Manali.
• By Train: 200 km away from Shimla, 7-8 hours by NH5 to Kullu valley and further by NH 3 to Manali.
• By Air: Bhuntar airport also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, Distance From Manali 50 KMs, One hour flight from Delhi.
• Transfer: It is our own car but if not then one has to hire a taxi or take pre-arranged car from the airport to Manali.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (March to June): Fine climate for outdoor activities such as sightseeing and other adventurous activities.
• Monsoon (July to September): During the rainy season there are often landslides since there is a large amount of water falling on the ground; not ideal for traveling.
• Winter (October to February): Snowy scenery good for winter pastime such as skiing; biting cold..

Places to Stay

• Luxury:
  • The Himalayan: An elegant holiday destination characterized by beautiful sceneries and quality facilities.
  • Manually The Resort Spa: Provides different kinds of spa services and a calm atmosphere.
• Mid-Range:
  • Hotel Apple Green: Affordability of accommodation, facilities and beauty of the area and rooms.
  • Johnson Lodge & Spa: This hotel has a homely feel to it and is well located to some of the sites and venues.
• Budget:
  • Zostel Manali: Favored by the youths traveling independently, creating an environment where people of similar interests can share a room and costs.
  • Himalayan Village: A dismal and unique accommodation choice with all the essential needs met cheaply.

Things to Do

• Solang Valley: These are activities that are considered as thrilling and may include paragliding, skiing, zorbing among others.
• Rohtang Pass: Beauty spots and skiing/snowboarding [note: Depending on the location, the show must obtain permits].
• Hadimba Temple: An architectural wonder of a temple made of wood with cedar trees all around.
• Old Manali: Indulge the old school with locals cafes and markets.
• Manu Temple: Consecrated to Manu, provides cultural perspective and nice vistas.

What to Eat

• Local Cuisine:
• Chana Madra: A traditional dish of Himachal which is a preparation of chickpeas.
• Siddu: Steamed bread, commonly eaten with ghee though there are many variations of the same.
• Tibetan Delicacies: Spicy momos or Nepali dumplings are a specialty of the country along with thukpa, a type of noodle soup.
• Apple Cider: As for the local drinks, one cannot ignore the ones based on apples.

6. Shimla

Manali is a quaint hill station known for its breathtaking scenery and adventure possibilities. It is placed inside the Indian country of Himachal Pradesh. Manali, which is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys, affords a tranquil getaway with sports like paragliding and skiing on the Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. The city is properly favored for exploration and leisure due to the fact to its nice temperature, lively nearby subculture, and proximity to holy places and historical temples. Manali gives the best fusion of scenic beauty and leisure interests, whether you are seeking out exhilarating outside experiences or a tranquil getaway.

How to Reach

Manali Transportation Options

• By Road: The drive from Delhi to Manali is approximately 550 km, taking 12-14 hours.
• By Train: The major railway station in Joginder Nagar, 165 km away, can be reached via taxi or bus.
• By Air: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), 50 km away, can be reached via taxi or bus. Regular flights connect Bhuntar with major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Places to Stay

1. The Oberoi Cecil: Luxury with colonial charm and stunning views.
2. Wildflower Hall: A luxurious retreat with exceptional service and panoramic vistas.
3. Hotel Willow Banks: Comfortable stay with a central location and good amenities.
4. Hotel Clarkes: Historic hotel offering classic elegance and modern comforts.

Things to Do

1. Mall Road: Enjoy shopping, dining, and the vibrant atmosphere.
2. Christ Church: Visit one of the oldest churches in North India.
3. Jakhoo Temple: Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Hanuman with a panoramic view of Shimla.
4. Shimla Ridge: A scenic area with beautiful views and a pleasant walking experience.
5. Kufri: A short drive away, offering adventure activities like horse riding and skiing in winter.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Winter (November to February): Perfect for snow enthusiasts and enjoying a winter wonderland. Be prepared for cold temperatures.

What to Eat

1. Chole Bhature: A spicy and hearty North Indian dish.
2. Siddu: A Himachali delicacy made from wheat flour dough, often served with chutney.
3. Tandoori Chicken: Savory and aromatic, a must-try for non-vegetarians.
4. Sidu: Himachali bread often paired with local pickles and curd.
5. Local Himachali Sweets: Try some traditional sweets like Chana Madra and Patande.