Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Mrunal & Jiten
India is a land of diverse landscapes, languages, ethnicities, and religions. Its incredible diversity spans 28 states and 8 union territories.
Top 10 Best States in India
Table of Contents
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is a land rich in history, with architectural marvels like the Brihadeeswara Temple, Mahabalipuram Shore Temple, and Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The state also boasts attractions such as the Government Museum and DakshinaChitra.
Beach lovers can enjoy Marina Beach, Kanyakumari Beach, Dhanushkodi Beach, and more. The state is home to the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest and popular hill stations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Yercaud.
Tamil Nadu is globally renowned for healthcare tourism due to its advanced medical infrastructure.
Must-Buys
- Kanchipuram silk sarees
- Traditional dolls
Must-Try Foods
- Idli/Vadai/Dosai
- Chettinadu cuisine
Telangana
Telangana’s capital, Hyderabad, is a major IT hub that attracts expats from around the world. Notable landmarks include the Golkonda Fort, Salarjung Museum, Hussain Sagar, and Ramoji Film City.
Nagarjunasagar boasts the world’s tallest masonry dam on the Krishna River. Other highlights include Yadadri and Neolithic cultural sites in Nalgonda.
Must-Buys
- Bronze castings
- Handicrafts
- Pochampally sarees
Must-Try Foods
- Hyderabadi Biryani
- Sarva Pindi
Punjab
Punjab, the land of five rivers, is known for its warm-hearted people and vibrant culture.
The Golden Temple, a sacred site for Sikhs, hosts the world’s largest community kitchen. Other religious landmarks include Devi Talab and Shri Durgiana Temple.
The Partition Museum highlights the impact of Partition on Punjab. Other historical landmarks include Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border Museum, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Moti Bagh, Bahadurgarh Fort, and Sheesh Mahal.
Must-Buys
- Phulkari dupattas
- Woolen clothes
- Embroidered juttis
Must-Try Foods
- Food at the Golden Temple
- Dhaba cuisine
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India, offers a rich blend of nature, heritage, wildlife, and spirituality.
Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy Kanha Tiger Reserve, Satpura National Park, Bandhavgarh Park, and Panna National Park.
World Heritage Sites include the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Sanchi Monuments, and the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka. Other must-visit locations are Gwalior Fort, Orchha, Panna, Shivpuri, Chanderi, and Datia.
Must-Buys
- Bamboo crafts
- Tribal accessories
- Carpets
- Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees
- Iron crafts
Must-Try Foods
- Poha
- Dal Bafla
- Seekh Kebabs
Odisha
The golden triangle of Konark, Puri, and Bhubaneswar is Odisha’s top attraction. Popular beaches include Gopalpur Beach, Chandrabhaga Beach, and Chandipur Beach.
Adventure enthusiasts can embark on a biking trip through Simlipal Tiger Reserve, exploring waterfalls, temples, and wildlife. Unique accommodation options include forest resorts and glamping sites at seven eco-retreats across the state.
Must-Buys
- Pattachitra paintings
- Handlooms
Must-Try Foods
- Dalma
- Rasgulla
- Chhena Poda
Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is home to some of the best summer retreats, including Manali, Kasol, Chamba, Kullu, Kasauli, and Kinnaur.
Popular activities include rock climbing, paragliding, trekking, heli-skiing, and skating. Himachal Pradesh also serves as the base camp for expeditions to the higher Himalayan ranges.
Top religious sites include Dharamshala, Hidimba Devi Temple, Baijnath Temple, Jwalamukhi Temple, and Brajeshwari Temple.
Must-Buys
- Miniature paintings
- Chamba handkerchiefs
- Metal crafts
- Kullu shawls
Must-Try Foods
- Aktori
- Madra
- Chha Gosht
West Bengal
The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, is home to the Royal Bengal tiger and other unique flora and fauna. Popular hill stations include Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Kalimpong.
In Kolkata, the capital city, top attractions include Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Eden Gardens, Mother Teresa’s House, Birla Mandir, and Victoria Memorial.
Shantiniketan, established by Rabindranath Tagore, is a unique blend of art, culture, heritage, literature, and education—a must-visit location.
Must-Buys
- Darjeeling tea
- Bengali sweets
- Kalighat paintings
Must-Try Foods
- Ilish Macher Jhol
- Sandesh
Meghalaya
Meghalaya, meaning “abode of clouds,” offers an exotic landscape combined with rich culture and traditions.
Top places to visit include Cherrapunji, Shillong, Mawsynram, Jowai, Mawlynnong Village, and Nongpoh.
The state offers a surreal experience with its monoliths, cascading waterfalls, living root bridges, crystal-clear lakes, starry skies, friendly tribals, scenic road trips, and wild spaces.
Must-Buys
- Muga silk
- Shawls
- Cane products
Must-Try Foods
- Jadoh
- Nakham Bitchi
Rajasthan
Rajasthan, the land of royalty, is steeped in history and valor that continues to be celebrated today.
The state boasts stunning palaces such as Umaid Bhawan, Lake Palace, Hawa Mahal, Devi Garh Palace, and Rambagh Palace, some of which have been converted into heritage hotels for a luxurious stay.
Visitors can explore popular forts, wildlife sanctuaries, and immerse themselves in the royal experience by participating in various fairs and festivals organized by the tourism department.
Must-Buys
- Gemstones
- Puppets
- Home decor
Must-Try Foods
- Dal-Bati-Churma
- Laal Maas
Maharashtra
Maharashtra, the land of the Marathas, is a state of contrasts, with natural beauty on one hand and the glamour of Bollywood on the other.
The state offers numerous beaches with adventure sports, charming hill stations, and significant tourist attractions like Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Shirdi, and more. Cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Alibaug, and others are popular destinations.
Must-Buys
- Spices
- Mangoes
- Latest fashion trends
Must-Try Foods
- Vada Pav
- Seafood
