India, country that occupies the greater part of South Asia. It is a constitutional republic consisting of 29 states, each with a substantial degree of control over its own affairs; 6 less fully empowered union territories; and the Delhi national capital territory, which includes New Delhi, India’s capital. With roughly one-sixth of the world’s total population, India is the second most-populous country, after China.

NORTH INDIA

North India is a loosely defined region consisting of the northern part of India. The dominant geographical features of North India are the Indus-Gangetic Plain and the Himalayas, which demarcate the region from the Tibetan Plateau and Central Asia.

The Best Places to Visit in North India

Remnants of ancient empires, cosmopolitan cities, spiritual towns, scenic mountains, picturesque lakes and lush valleys are all part of North India’s vast and diverse landscape. With something for everyone, we’ve put together a list of some of the best places to visit in North India.

Delhi

Delhi is a uniquely historic and cosmopolitan city that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Its historic monuments, landscaped gardens, amazing food, bustling markets, vibrant art and nightlife scene, diverse cultures and youthful liveliness all make this city wonderfully dynamic. Some notable attractions include the iconic India Gate, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Chandi Chowk, Lotus temple and Lodhi Gardens.

Agra

Certainly one of the most well-known places in North India, Agra is famed for its historic sights, which are reminiscent of the Mughal-era. From the iconic Taj Mahal and 16th-century Agra Fort to the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra is a dream for architecture aficionados and history buffs.

Varanasi

Dating back to the 6th century BC, Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the country. For centuries, it’s been an important site for Hindu pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the world. People come here to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain inner peace, beside taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges – part of an ancient ritual of purification of soul, body and mind. You’ll see around 87 ghats (flights of steps leading to the river) and more than 2,000 temples, mostly dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Do not leave without attending the Ganga aarti (prayer ritual held every evening) and enjoying a boat ride along the Ganges.