The ultimate India bucket list - incredible places to visit

From crazy colourful cities to the misty foothills of the Himalayas, these are the best places to visit in India.

See the amazing Taj Mahal for yourself

You’ve seen its likeness a million times, but now’s your chance to actually see the Taj Mahal in the flesh – and feel its magic for yourself. Poet Sir Edwin Arnold described the mausoleum as “the proud passions of an emperor’s love wrought in living stones” – and the vision of white marble, pristine gardens and shimmering pools is as moving today as it ever has been.

While you’re here: Don’t miss Agra Fort, the imposing 16th century residence of the Mughal Dynasty emperors.

Cruise Kerala in a houseboat

The best way to experience Kerala’s beautiful lagoons and lakes is by houseboat: a quaint, quiet vessel which glides through the smooth waters. Exploring India can be frenetic at times, but this is a serene way to travel – with your own guide, cook and private floating quarters.

While you’re here: Kerala is one of the best places to visit in India for foodies! It’s renowned for its tasty coconut-infused curries, so try a local cooking course for tips.

Take tea in Darjeeling

The British Raj used to retreat to the foothills of the Himalayas when India’s cities sweltered in summer – and Darjeeling was one of their favourite spots. This lofty town is surrounded by tea plantations, which thrive (just like those colonial Brits) in the cool, wet conditions – creating some of the best cuppas known to mankind. Take afternoon tea at The Elgin, a 125-year-old hotel and estate.

While you’re here: Venture to Tiger Hill observatory before dawn to watch the sun rise over the Himalayas – including the awe-inspiring peak of Mount Everest.

Visit the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur

Jaipur is all of India’s stereotypes come true: it’s frenetic, colourful, brash and beautiful. Head straight to City Palace – which is now home to an impressive museum – and Hawa Mahal (‘Palace of the Winds’), whose intricate facade was designed so that royal women could observe the city without being seen themselves. Amer Fort – a grand 16th-century hilltop palace and fort – continues the opulence, with its red sandstone and white marble ramparts.

While you’re here: Treat yourself to another of the best things to do in India: shopping. Jaipur is a great place to haggle for handicrafts, clothes and art.

Try tiger spotting in Bandhavgarh

The wilds of India inspired Rudyard Kipling to write the Jungle Book – and Bandhavgarh National Park looks like it’s been lifted straight from its pages. This haven of wild and wonderful countryside is home to almost 100 tigers, and thanks to its diminutive size (the core is just 105 sq km), you won’t have far to travel to see one. There are also lots of prehistoric caves and the ruins of an ancient fort to explore, so you’ll need a few days to do this incredible area justice.