Must-See Destinations in India before you turn 40

There’s no time like the present to start traveling and experiencing new things. Visiting new places can help you find yourself and make lasting memories. If you’re looking for exciting and unique destinations within India to visit before you turn 30, this list of 101 amazing tourist spots has you covered. From crazy adventures to peaceful retreats, these places offer something for everyone. So why wait? Start packing your bags and set off on a journey to cross a few destinations off your bucket list. It’s time to explore some of the best tourist places in India and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

20 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 40

Here is a list of 101 most beautiful places in India before you turn 30. These places in India are known for their magnificence and overall beauty. They are also considered havens for solo travellers. Take a look:

1. Goa

When in Goa, you can go for sightseeing and explore some of the oldest and most famous churches, temples, and forts. The Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, and the Arvalem Caves are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa. Other than sightseeing, you can also indulge in a variety of watersports and adventure activities like parasailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, and many more. You can also go shopping in the local markets of Goa, which are the perfect places to get souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family.

Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach

By air: Dabolim International Airport is the major airport in Goa.
By rail: Madgaon Railway Station and Thivim Railway Station are the main railway heads of Goa.
By road: Margao Bus Terminal, Kadamba Bus Terminal, and Mapusa Bus Terminal are the best-connected bus terminals in Goa. However, many people prefer taking a car/bike ride from Mumbai and Pune.
By Sea: You can also opt for ferry services which is an excellent way of commuting. You can take a ferry from Mumbai to Panaji and easily reach Goa.

Places To Visit In Goa: Beaches like Vagator, Calangute, Anjuna, Colva, & Benaulim, Fort Aguada, Church of Mae De Deus, Temple of Bodgeshwar, Dudhsagar Waterfalls ,St Xavier’s Church, Grand Island (for watersports), Deltin Royale Casino and clubs like Cafe Mambos, Titos, LPK (Love Passion Karma), SinQ, & Club Cubana.

Things To D o In Goa :Take the famous cruise from Mumbai to Goa.
Events: Sunburn Festival in December
Water Sports At Baga and Calangute Beaches: Kneeboarding, Kayaking, Wakeboarding, Windsurfing, Scuba Diving, White Water Rafting
Famous Markets: Anjuna Flea Market, Panjim Market, Mackie’s Night Bazaar, Saturday Market
Best Resorts Near Baga Beach: Estrela Do Mar Beach Resort, Resort Rio

2. Mcleodganj

The Bhagsu Waterfall located nearby is also one of the most popular attractions of Mcleodganj. It is a beautiful sight to behold, especially when the water cascades down from a height of 20 metres. You can also visit the Bhagsunath Temple and the nearby Shiva café which is a perfect place to chill and relax. For those who love the outdoors, the hill station offers several trekking trails in the Dhauladhar ranges. These trails offer an unforgettable experience and can be enjoyed even in the winter months.

Best time to visit: September to June
How to reach

By air: Gaggal Airport (18 km away) is the nearest airport.
By rail: The nearest railhead is Pathankot Railway Station (89 km away)
By road: Numerous state government & private buses ply between Mcleodganj and various cities of north India like Delhi, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, etc. on a regular basis. Passengers can take a bus to the Mcleodganj bus stand and then hire a taxi.

Places To Visit In Mcleodganj :Kangra Fort, Bhagsunath Temple, Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Dalai Lama Temple complex, HPCA Stadium, tea plantations of Kangra valley, and Triund trek

Must-Visit Restaurants: Nick’s Italian Kitchen, Lung-Ta Japanese Restaurant

3. Srinagar

Kashmir has one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. From the majestic snow-capped mountain peaks to the lush green valleys, the serene lakes, and the dense forests, it’s an absolute treat for the eyes. Visit the Dal Lake in Srinagar and take a shikara ride to enjoy the beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Take a trip to the Gulmarg meadows and marvel at the stunning view of snow-capped mountains. There are lots of activities to enjoy such as skiing, trekking, and cable car rides. Make sure to take your camera and capture some amazing moments.

Best time to visit: April to October
How to reach

By air: Srinagar has its own airport.
By rail: The Srinagar Railway Station is under construction. Till then, passengers can take a train to Udhampur Railway Station(229 km from Srinagar)
By road: Unless you are travelling from the city of Jammu & Kashmir, the road is not a preferred way to reach Srinagar.

Places To Visit In Srinagar: Dal Lake (boating in shikaras & night stays in houseboats), Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Tomb of Zin-ul-Abidin, Jama Masjid, Hazratbal Mosque, and Shankaracharya Hill, Pari mahal, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Restaurants In Srinagar: Mughal Darbar, Cafe De Linz
Famous Lakes In Srinagar : Nagin lake, Dal lake

4. Andaman

From beaches and lagoons to lakes and rivers, there’s a wealth of aquatic experiences to choose from in India. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful kayaking trip down a river, a scuba diving session to explore the coral reefs, or just a relaxing day at the beach, you will find something to suit your needs.

Best time to visit: November to mid-May
How to reach

By air: Vir Savarkar Airport in Port Blair is the archipelago’s major airport.
By sea: Ships ply between Haddo Wharf Port in Port Blair and cities of Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam.

Places To Visit In Andaman : Cellular Jail National Memorial, Radhanagar Beach , Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Chidiya Tapu, and watersports like scuba diving, snorkeling, & parasailing

Water activities: Banana boat rides, snorkeling, parasailing, jet-skiing, undersea walking, speed boating, scuba diving, and sport fishing
Andaman Cruises: You can board a cruise to Andaman from Chennai, Vizag and Kolkata
Average Temperature: 24 degrees Celsius (Min.) and 37 degrees (Max.)
Beaches of Andaman: famous beaches include, Radhanagar beach, Corbyn’s Cove, Wandoor Beach and Merk Bay Beach

5. Leh-Ladakh

Undoubtedly, Leh – Ladakh is on every travel enthusiast’s list of famous tourist places to visit in India before they turn 30. Ride on the crazy winding roads, get stuck in the middle of nowhere, sleep with the locals, go trekking in Ladakh, and learn to be independent on the desert mountains as you undertake this adventurous journey in one of the best places in India.

Best time to visit: April to mid-May and mid-September to mid-October
How to reach

By air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the airport connecting the region to other places by air.
By rail: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (700 km from Ladakh) is the nearest railhead. From here, one can hire a cab or board a JKSRTC bus to Ladakh.
By road: The most popular means of reach Ladakh remains to be the road. Travelers can go on a bike/jeep ride to the destination. Bike trips from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali are the most popular.

Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh : Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Khardung-La Pass, Spituk Gompa, and Hemis National Park
Rental bikes: You can rent a bike in Ladakh and it costs upto INR 2000 per day
Average temperature: 15 degree celsius (Min.) and 28 degree celsius (Max.)
Nearest Fuel stations: Nagbal, Ganderbal, Kargil and Khalsi are four fuel stations on the route of Srinagar Leh.
Accommodation In Ladakh : Stok Palace Heritage hotel and Shakti Himalaya are some of the accommodations you can stay at in Ladakh

6. Binsar

Binsar is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and offers stunning views of the snow-clad Himalayas. It is situated at an elevation of more than 2,400m above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests, lush green landscapes, and majestic snow-capped peaks.

Best time to visit: October to November
How to reach

By air: There’s a domestic airport in Pantnagar, 152 km from Binsar.
By rail: Kathgodam Railway Station, 119 km from Binsar, is the nearest railway head.
By road: Buses connect the town with all major neighbouring areas.

Places To Visit In Binsar : Zero Point, Pariyadeva Pashan, Mary Budden Estate, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, and more.

Wildlife: Barking deer, Himalayan bear, leopard, flying squirrel, chital and porcupine are some of the species of animals found here

Average Temperature: 19.8 degree celsius (Max.) and 6.5-degree celsius (Min.)

Places to eat: Baba cake and Dolma Restaurant are some of the places you can dine at in Binsar

Camping: there are many camping sites available in this area and you are required to book in advance as they’re full during peak seasons like the month of June and January

Jeep safari: There are many companies offering jeep safaris of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary that you can book in advance and surely worth trying.

7. Coorg

From its lush green forests, misty hills, to its picturesque waterfalls and coffee plantations, Coorg has plenty of attractions and activities to offer. Nature walks, trekking, camping, and the thrilling adventure activities like river rafting, rappelling, and rock climbing will surely give you an adventurous experience. Not to forget the many temples, monuments and forts that are a part of its rich cultural heritage. With its pleasant climate, Coorg is a great destination for a relaxing yet exciting holiday.

Best time to visit: October to March
How to reach

By air: The nearest domestic airport is in Mangalore, 156 km away. The nearest international airport is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, 285 kilometres away.
By rail: Mysore Junction, 106 km away, is the nearest railhead.
By road: The 238 km long road trip from Bangalore (Bengaluru) takes 5 hours 30 minutes.

Places To Visit In Coorg : Abbey Falls, Nalknad Palace, Barapole River, Brahmagiri Peak, Iruppu Falls, Namdroling Monastery, Nagarhole National Park, Microlight flight at Chelavara, ziplining, and angling in River Kaveri
Average Temperature: 29-degree celsius
Restaurants: Coorg cuisine, Raintree restaurant

8. Kerala

Kerala is the perfect destination for nature lovers for its picturesque landscapes and majestic waterfalls. The backwaters offer a perfect opportunity to relax and take in the beauty of nature. Enjoy the beauty of the lush green plantations, the misty hill stations, and the beautiful beaches. From the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats to the mesmerising lakes, there is something for everyone in Kerala. So don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore the wonders of nature and create unforgettable memories!

Best time to visit: November to January and June to August
How to reach

By air: Kerala has three main airports – Calicut International Airport, Cochin International Airport, and Trivandrum International Airport. These airports connect Kerala with different cities across the world, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Muscat, and Dubai.
By rail: Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station, Ernakulam Junction railway station, and Kollam Junction railway station are three major railheads of Kerala. These stations connect the state with cities and towns across India.

Places To Visit In Kerala : Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Kumarakam Bird Sanctuary, Marari Beach , Revi Karunakaran Museum, Punnamada Lake, Pathiramanal, and Sri Krishna Temple in Ambalappuzha

Average Temperature: 28-degree celsius
Restaurants: The Riceboat, Paragon restaurant

9. Kanatal

The mesmerizing view of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas and the pristine beauty of nature makes it a perfect place to spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are looking to relax, explore, or just have some fun, camping in Kanatal is sure to provide you with plenty of activities and experiences that will make your trip memorable. From trekking to river rafting, from paragliding to rappelling, and from bird watching to the thrilling bonfire nights, the possibilities are endless. So, if you are looking for a perfect holiday destination, head to Kanatal and enjoy one of the best camping experiences of your life.

Best time to visit: April to June
How to reach

By air: Located at a distance of 92 km, Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airstrip to Kanatal.
By rail: Located at a distance of 75 km, Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railhead to Kanatal.

Places to visit in Kanatal: Kodia Jungle, Tehri Lake, Surkanda Devi temple, New Tehri Dam, and more.
Average Temperature: 25-degree celsius
Restaurants: Brothers cafe and restaurant, Chacha Sip & Dine

10. Kasol

Kasol is a small village in the Himalayas and offers its visitors peace and serenity like no other place. It is surrounded by lush green forests, crystal clear rivers and mesmerizing landscapes. You can take long walks in the forests, meditate by the rivers and explore the many hidden treasures of the village. You can also take a dip in the hot springs to relax and rejuvenate yourself. There are many cafes and tourist spots to explore, making Kasol an ideal destination for a solo trip. So, pack your bags and get ready for a journey of self-discovery.

Best time to visit: October to June
How to reach

By air: Bhuntar Domestic Airport (31 km away) is the nearest flight connection.
By rail: Pathankot (296 km away) is the nearest railhead.
By road: HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) runs regular buses from Delhi, Haryana, & Punjab and other Himachal cities like Pathankot, Shimla, Kangra, Solan, & Dharamsala.

PLaces To Visit In Kaso: Kheerganga peak, Malana village, Parvati River, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Jari, Bhuntar, and more.

Average Temperature: 16.8-degree celsius

Restaurants: The Evergreen, Moon Dance Cafe

11. Kutch

Experience the culture of the place by participating in the traditional activities like the Rann Utsav, a three-month long festival, and enjoy the local cuisines. Join the local tribes in their annual rituals and get to know the rich heritage of the place. Kutch is also home to numerous temples and monuments, which offer a perfect backdrop to explore the history and culture of India. So, make sure to make the most of this trip before you turn 30.

Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach

By air: Bhuj Airport, 69 km away, is the nearest air connection.
By rail: Bhuj Railway Station is 50 km away from Kutch.

Places To Visit In Kuch : Prag Mahal, Kalo Dungar, Kutch Museum, Archaeological Museum, Mandvi Beach, White Desert, Aina Mahal, and more.

Average Temperature: 26.3-degree celsius

Restaurants: Noorani restaurant, Annapurna restaurant

12. Bir Billing

The mesmerizing view of the landscape and the snow-capped mountains make Bir Billing a must-visit destination. The paragliding experience here is unique and a one-of-a-kind experience that you will never forget. The best time for paragliding in Bir Billing is from October to April. The cool weather and the vivid colors of the sky add to the appeal of the place. Bir Billing also offers other adventure activities like rappelling, camping, trekking, and mountaineering.

Best time to visit: April to June
How to reach

By air: Kangra airport in Gaggal happens to be the nearest airport located at a distance of about 67 kilometers from Bir.
By rail: Pathankot is the nearest railway station to Bir Billing located at a distance of about 140 kilometres.
By road: Located in the heart of Himachal, Bir Billing is accessible by road as many state-run and private buses run from the nearby cities of Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, Shimla, and more.

Attractions: Baijnath Shiv Temple, Billing Valley, Chamunda Devi Temple, Shiva Shrine, Ahju Fort, and more.

Average Temperature: 16.8-degree celsius

Restaurants: Zenwich restaurant, Glider’s Pizzeria

13. Assam

Capture the beauty of the rare Gangetic Dolphins, which can be seen in the river. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the evergreen forest, which is home to a variety of animals such as elephants, wild boar, and many species of birds. Visitors can also spot deer, buffalo, and various species of reptiles and amphibians. The park also serves as a refuge to many endangered species like the white-winged wood duck, feral horses, and the Bengal Florican. From its wild beauty to its vibrant culture, the Dibru Saikhowa National Park is one of the most captivating places to visit in India.

Best time to visit: October to April
How to reach

By air: Mohanbari in Dibrugarh, 40 km away, is the nearest domestic airport. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati is 510 km away.
By rail: New Tinsukia Railway Station is 12 km away.

Places To Visit In Assam : Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Kamakhya Temple, Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Assam State Museum, and more.

Average Temperature: 23.2-degree celsius

Restaurants: Khorikaa, Paradise restaurant

14. Rishikesh

Go for camping and explore the wilderness of the city. Enjoy the local delicacies with your friends and take part in the various adventure activities like rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping. Enjoy the sunset at the holy banks of Ganges and take part in the ‘Ganga Aarti’. If you wish to explore the beauty of nature, take a day trip to the nearby town of Dehradun and Mussoorie.

Best time to visit: September to November and February to June
How to reach

By air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 20 km from Rishikesh, is the nearest air connection.
By rail: Haridwar Junction, 21 km from Rishikesh, is the nearest railhead.
By road: It is well-connected by road to major cities, including Haridwar (21 km away) and Delhi (229 km away).

Places To Visit In Rishikesh : Rajaji National Park, Lakshman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parmarth Niketan, Ram Jhula, Shivpuri River Rafting Point, and more.

Average Temperature: 20-degree celsius

Restaurants: Bistro Nirvana, The Sitting Elephant

15. Shimla

The journey is filled with scenic beauty and several tunnels, giving you a magical experience. All the way, the train passes through small stations, offering glimpses of the life of the locals. When the train reaches Shimla, you will be welcomed by the beautiful, mesmerizing view of the snow-clad Himalayan mountains and the lush green valleys. What’s more, the ride also takes you through some of the most picturesque towns in India. The entire experience is sure to make you feel like a child again, full of energy and enthusiasm.

Best time to visit: March to June
How to reach

By air: Located at a distance of 25 km, Jubbarhatti is the nearest airport from Shimla.
By rail: The toy train from Kalka to Shimla is the most convenient railway line that connects Shimla to other nearby towns.
By road: Many state-run and private buses run from the nearby cities of Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, and Kullu that are well connected to Shimla via road.

Places To Visit In Shimla : Kufri, Mall Road, Chadwick Falls, Jakhu Temple, Annandale, Christ Church, Scandal Point, and more.

Average Temperature: 22-degree celsius

Restaurants: Cafe Sol, 45 The Central

16. Tirthan Valley

The valley is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, verdant pine and deodar cedar forests, and the pristine Tirthan River. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, hiking, fishing, and even bird watching. There are many quaint villages like Ganghar, Gushaini and Rolla that offer visitors a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle. The valley is also home to the rare Himalayan brown bear, leopards and snow leopards. Visitors can also explore the Great Himalayan National Park, which is one of the most popular attractions in the area.

Best time to visit: March to June and October to November
How to reach

By air: Bhuntar airport is the nearest airport to Tirthan Valley at a distance of about 48 km.
By rail: Ambala railway station happens to be the nearest railway station to Tirthan Valley at a distance of about 188 km.
By road: One can easily embark on a scenic road trip from the nearby states of Delhi, Punjab and Haryana till Tirthan Valley via a car or a bus.

Attractions: Great Himalayan National Park, Jalori Pass, Raghupur Fort, Saryolsar, Gushaini, Sojha, and more.

Average Temperature: 25-degree celsius

Restaurants: Sunshine Himalayan camp, Kaith Mud

17. Jim Corbett

The dense forests and grasslands of Corbett guarantee you the perfect backdrop for capturing the beauty of nature. There are also a number of lakes and rivers that you can explore and capture some stunning shots of birds and other wildlife. You can also take a safari tour and get a chance to observe the majestic tigers in their natural habitat. There are several trails and pathways in the national park, so you can explore the area on foot and capture the beauty of the wilderness.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Jim Corbett and experiencing the safari at its best depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Summer is considered the best time for tiger sighting. However, November to February is the best time to visit Jim Corbett.

How to reach:

By air: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport to Jim Corbett National Park
By rail: Ramnagar Railway station is located merely 12 km away from the national park
By road: The national park is well connected by roads to various destinations like Delhi and Dehradun.

Places To Visit In Jim Corbett National Park: Garjiya Devi Temple, Jim Corbett Museum, Corbett Falls, Corbett Tiger Reserve, Ramganga Dam, and more.

Average Temperature: 27-degree celsius

Restaurants: Safari Cafe & Homestay, Doaba’s Punjabi Dhaba

18. Manali

Manali offers a wide range of activities for visitors to indulge in. From skiing and paragliding to trekking and rafting, Manali has something for everyone. For those who love nature and want to take in the beauty of the Himalayas, Manali is the perfect place to visit. The lush green valley and snow-capped mountains make it irresistible to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. Manali is also known for its delectable cuisine, with plenty of local eateries to choose from. From traditional Himachali dishes to North Indian delicacies, Manali has something to tantalize all taste buds. For a truly unique experience, it’s worth visiting the local markets where you can find handmade products and traditional goods.

Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach

By air: Located at a distance of about 52 km, Kullu-Manali airport is the nearest airport to Manali.
By rail: Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station to Manali located at a distance of about 160 km.
By road: Manali can be easily reached by road via private cabs, cars, and state-run or private buses from the nearby cities of New Delhi, Chandigarh, Pathankot, Ambala, and so on.

Places To Visit In Manali : Bhrigu Lake, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Great Himalayan National Park, Jogini Falls, and Tibetan Monastery.

Average Temperature: 15.1-degree celsius

Resturants In Manali : Johnson’s cafe and hotel, Chopsticks restaurant

19. Udaipur

Udaipur is home to many magnificent sites like the City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Fateh Sagar Lake. The intricate architecture of the City Palace and its museum will take your breath away. The temple, Jagdish Temple, is one of the most important temples in the city and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the city and is surrounded by several parks, gardens, and eateries. Udaipur is a great place to explore and enjoy the charm of the Rajasthani culture.

Best time to visit: September to March
How to reach:

By air: Udaipur has its own airport, which indeed is well connected to different parts of the country.
By rail: The city’s railway station is actually among the most well-connected railheads in the city
By road: One can easily find buses for reaching the city by road, from cities like Jaisalmer, Jaipur and Delhi.

Places To Visit In Udaipur : Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, City Palace, Jag Mandir, Gangaur Ghat, and Bagore ki Haweli

Average Temperature: 30-degree celsius

Restaurant In Udaipur : Khamma Ghani restaurant, Raaj Bagh restaurant

20. Auli

The best way to explore Auli is to take a stroll through its picturesque landscape, and take in all the beauty that this place has to offer. Even if you’re not skiing, you can enjoy a cable car ride, or a trek from the base camp to the top of the mountain. There are numerous places to visit here, from the traditional Joshimath to the mysterious Nanda Devi peak. You can also explore the nearby villages, interact with the locals, and learn about their culture and traditions. No matter how much time you spend in Auli, it will never be enough!

Best time to visit: Auli Uttarakhand is best visited anytime during the year. However, since this destination is well-known for skiing, then it’s suggested you don’t miss Auli during the winter season (December to February).