30 Must-Visit Places in India Before You Turn 30 | Travel Guide

Take the most out of your young age and zeal, travel and freak out the life you have not done before. Enjoy each and every moment of your life. Here we bring to you the most exciting 30 places to visit in India before you reach your middle age.

So buck up and pack your bags as it is time for you to scratch off some destinations from your bucket.

1. Hills of Mcleodganj

The super awesome mountain ranges will give you the best Trek experience you have ever had. Treks offer breathtaking views of Dhauladhar ranges. You will experience bliss white trekking with your best companion under the clear night sky.

Perfect time for a visit: September to June

How to travel:

• By road: A lot of state & 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 till Mcleodganj bus stand and then hire a taxi.
• By air: Gaggal Airport (18 km away) is the nearest airport.
• By rail: The nearest rail head is Pathankot Railway Station (89 km away).

Major Attractions: Kangra Fort, Bhagsunath Temple, Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Dalai Lama Temple complex, HPCA Stadium, tea plantations of Kangra valley, and Triund trek

2. Go Goa but definitely not Gone

Dreamed of a party night? Ever wished to freak out the full night and enjoy feeling out of this world? If we are on the same track, you should visit Goa and see what this marvelous place has to offer you. From serene beaches and churches to loud and breathtaking discos; Goa has got a lot of things in its platter.

Perfect time to visit: November to February

How to travel:

• By air: Dabolim International Airport is the major airport in Goa.
• By road: Margoa Bus Terminal, Kadamba Bus Terminal, and Mapusa Bus Terminal are best-connected bus terminals in Goa. However, many people prefer taking a car/bike ride from Mumbai and Pune.
• By rail: Madagaon Railway Station and Thivim Railway Station are the main railway heads of Goa.

Major Attractions: Beaches like Vagator, Calangute, Anjuna, Colva, & Benaulim, Fort Aguada, Church of Mae De Deus, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Temple of Bodgeshwar, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, St Xavier’s Church, Grand Island (for watersports), and clubs like Cafe Mambos,Titos, LPK (Love Passion Karma), SinQ, & Club Cubana.

Suggested Tour: 09 Nights / 10 Days Golden Triangle Tour with Goa

3. The untouched beauty of Srinagar

If you wish to see heaven on earth, then it is here in Srinagar. You must add this place on your travel list and experience its charismatic charm before it is hit and ruined by external forces.

Perfect time to visit: April to October

How to travel:

• By road: Unless you are traveling from a city of Jammu & Kashmir, the road is not a preferred way to reach Srinagar.
• 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)

Major Attractions: 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.

Suggested Tour: 09 Nights / 10 Days Golden Triangle Tour With Kashmir

4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

You need to conquer your fears of scuba diving here in the serene waters of Andaman. The water will leave your jaws dropped and it will surely make you come back here again. And Aqua lover, this is no less than a paradise for guys!!!

The best time to visit is from November to May. You can reach the place by Airways or Waterways.

The major attractions are Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Chidiya Tapu, water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving & parasailing and much more.

5. Highway camping in Leh Ladakh

I am sure Leh and Ladakh are on the travel list of everyone. I believe you should experience the beauty of this place before you turn 30. Go on an adventurous ride; enjoy trekking under the night sky, live with locals; an opportunity which no other place can offer.

The best time to visit is April to mid-May and mid-September to mid-October.

How to travel:

• 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 rail head. 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 most popular.

Major attractions are Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Khardung-La Pass, Spituk Gompa, and Hemis National Park.

Suggested Tour: 07 Nights / 08 Days Leh Ladakh Tour

6. Have a ritual stay at Banaras

Banaras may or may not be there in someone’s travel list, but I would recommend it to notice its beautiful ghats, the peaceful aartis, and prayers, a boat ride on the calm banks of the river.

The best time to visit is from October to February.

You can reach the place by air, rail, and road easily. The place has easy connectivity from all states of India.

7. A night over at Marine Drive Mumbai

Do spend a night at Marine Drive, the most happening place of a city that never sleeps, Mumbai. Hook up here, live like a Mumbaikar, enjoys vada pav as your morning meal and do not forget to sip a chai at a local nukkad.

This city can be visited all through the year but the best time would be from November to March.

Needless to say, how you would reach here, this is the city is connected with the whole world.

Major Attractions: Gateway of India, Haji Ali Dargah, Elephanta Caves & island, Siddhivinayak Temple, Essel World, Kanheri Caves, Rajabai Clock Tower, Kamala Nehru Park, Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Nehru Planetarium, Worli Fort, and Marine Drive

Suggested Tour: 06 Nights / 07 Days Golden Triangle Tour With Mumbai

8. Binsar at Almora

Adventure, Chill, Peace, and Jungle; this is what this place has to offer. Adventure enthusiasts, this is the place for you.

The best time for you to visit: April to June and September to November

How to Travel:

• By road: Buses connect the town with all major neighboring areas.
• By air: There’s a domestic airport in Pantnagar, 116 km from Almora.
• By rail: Kathgodam Railway Station, 82 km from Almora, is the nearest railway head.

Major Attractions: Nanda Devi Temple, Mrig Vihar Zoo, Khagmara Temple, and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

9. Coorg – The Scotland of India

This place just cannot be skipped from anyone’s travel list. It is called the Scotland of India because of its scenic beauty and breathtaking nature views. This place shall infuse zest and zeal in your life again.

The best time to visit October to March

How to Travel:

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

The Major Attractions are: Abbey Falls, Nalknad Palace, Barapole River, Brahmagiri Peak, Iruppu Falls, Namdroling Monastery, Nagarhole National Park, Microlight flight at Chelavara, zip lining, and angling in River Kaveri.

10. Durga Puja in Kolkata

Paint yourself red and indulge your sense in one of the most popular festivals celebrated in Kolkata. This festival will make you experience the culture of Bengal in its full form. Enjoy Bengali sweets, delicacies, and themed pandal and grand aartis.

The best time to visit: November to February.

How to travel:

• By air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is situated at Dumdum, 15 km from the main city.
• By rail: Howrah and Sealdah are the two main railway junctions in Kolkata that connect the city to several major cities in the country.

The Major city attractions are: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Eden Gardens Cricket Stadium, Kalighat Kali Temple, Birla Industrial & Technological Museum, Birla Planetarium, and St. Paul’s Cathedral

11. Meghalaya – The Caver’s paradise

If you ever wished to explore a cave and you are not afraid of insects, darkness, heights and tight spaces then exploring caves in Meghalaya is the best option for you. Meghalaya has one of the longest caves in south Asia.

The best time to visit: March to July

How to travel:

• By rail: Mendipathar railway station is located in Resubelpara Municipal Board Jurisdiction of Meghalaya at a distance of 225 km from Shillong. However, the Guwahati Junction in Assam is the nearest rail head with good connectivity to other cities of India.
• By air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati in Assam (118 km from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya) is the nearest international airport. Umroi Airport at Umroi, 30 km from Shillong, is the nearest domestic airport.

The major attractions are: Umiam Lake, Nohkalikai Falls, Elephant Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Shillong View Point, Spread Eagle Falls, Wah Umngot River, Nohwet Living Root Bridge, Kynrem falls, Khasi Hills, Khoh Ramhah or Motrop (Giant conical rock), and Garo Hills.

12. Live with the monks in Sikkim

Till now you have had a lot of fun, enjoyment, and thrill in your life, for now think of spending a few days with Sikkim monks. They will make you experience the mystic essence of Buddhism. Be with them and master the art of giving.

The best time to visit: March to June and September to December

How to Travel:

• By road: The cities of Sikkim are well-connected to Darjeeling (West Bengal) by good quality roads.
• By air: Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal (124 km from Gangtok) is the nearest airport. A 20 minutes’ helicopter ride from Bagdogra will take you further on till Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
• By rail: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station in Siliguri (148 km from Gangtok) is the nearest rail head.

Major Attractions are Nathu La, Hanuman Tok, Rumtek Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Tsomgo Lake, Phodong Monastery, & Teesta River in Gangtok, Yumthang Valley, Buddha Park of Ravangla, Kanchenjunga Falls, Lingdum Monastery, and Singshore Bridge.

Suggested Tour: 06 Nights / 07 Days Silver Triangle Tour

13. The Symbol of Eternal Love: The Taj Mahal

Add Agra to your travel list and observe the excellent architectural carvings of Taj Mahal. Each piece is a masterpiece that symbolizes the love of Shahjahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz.

The best time to travel: April to October

How to Travel:

• By road: Agra has two major interstate bus terminals called Idgah Bus Stand and ISBT that connect it to cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Gwalior, Lucknow, & Kanpur.
• By rail: Agra Cantt Station (the main station), Agra Fort Railway Station, Raja ki Mandi, Agra City, and Idgah Railway Station are well-connected by a network of trains to cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Gwalior, Jhansi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai.
• By air: Kheria airport, 13 km away from Agra, is a seasonal commercial airport and is connected only by Air India flights from New Delhi.

The major attractions are the Taj Mahal, Moti Masjid, Dilli Gate, Agra Fort, Tomb of Akbar the great, Guru ka Tal, Chini ka Rauza, Amar Singh Gate, Kanch Mahal.

Suggested Tour: Agra Day Tour

14. Mesmerize yourself in Kerala

Land in this beautiful land and praise God’s creation of nature. Observe the luscious green trees, serene waters, and thrilling wild life.

The best time to travel: November to January and June to August

How to Travel:

• By rail: Trivandrum Central Railway Station in Thiruvananthapuram is the major rail head. Kerala Express connects daily to Delhi. Netravati Express goes to Mumbai.
• By air: Thiruvananthapuram has the Trivandrum International Airport, linked by flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Cochin, and Chennai.

The major attractions are:Kumarakom: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Backwaters, Aruvikkuzhi waterfall, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Beach, and Pathiramal Island

Alleppey: Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Kumarakom bird sanctuary, Marari Beach, Revi Karunakaran Museum, Marari Beach, Punnamada Lake, Pathiramanal, and Sri Krishna Temple in Ambalappuzha

Wayanad: Meenmutty Waterfalls, Chembra Peak, 9 Hairpin Curves, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Ekkadal Caves, Bathery Jain Temple, Neelimala View Point, and Pookot Lake

Munnar: TATA Tea Museum, Meesapulimala, Blossom Park, Pothamedu ViewPoint, Attukal Waterfalls, Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Kundala Lake, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi, and Eravikulam National Park

Kozhikode: Mananchira, Conolly Canal, Hilite Mall, Kallayi, Tali Temple, Kappad Beach, Kozhikode Beach, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Sargaalaya, Payyoli Beach, Kozhippara Falls, and Matri Dei Cathedral

Thekkady: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Mangla Devi Temple, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Murikkady, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Chellarkovil, Kumily, and Deepa World Spice & Ayurvedic Garden

Kovalam: Lighthouse Beach, Samudra Beach, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, Halcyon Castle, Akkulam Lake, Jama Masjid, Vellayani Lake, Karamana River, and Rock Cut Caves

Varakala: Varkala Beach, Janardhan Temple, Sivagiri Muth, Kappil Lake, Papanasam Beach, Janardan Swami Temple, Vishnu Temple, Anjengo Fort, Sarkara Devi Temple, Varkala Tunnel, and Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah

Suggested Tour: 06 Nights / 07 Days Enchanting Kerala Tour
Suggested Tour: 05 Nights / 06 Days Kerala Temples and Backwaters Tour
Suggested Tour: 4 Nights / 5 Days Exotic Kerala Tour

15. Camping in Thar desert.

Enjoy the experience of camping over the desert sands with twinkling stars above. It is a place of world class royalty and a world heritage site.

The best time to travel: November to February

16. Qawwalis at the Nizamuddin Dargah

This dargah is one of the most pious and famous dargahs in India. Not only the Muslim community but everyone likes to visit it at least once in a lifetime. The place is famous for its live Qawwali which shall leave you to spell bound.

The best time to visit: October to March

17. A Solo Trip to Kasol

This place will tell you why you should have a solo trip at least once in your life. Kasol is the best place to have it. Discover new ways, a new life and also a new you.

The best time to travel: October to June

How to travel:

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

18. Cherrapunji – The place with living root bridges

If you wish to experience something surreal and out of this world then you should definitely visit Cherrapunji and its living root bridges.

The best time to travel: November to May

How to Travel:

• By rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead to Cherrapunji.
• By air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (163 km away) is the nearest air connect.

19. The Bhangarh Fort

It is a place for every dare devil, one of the scariest place in India. According to some folks, the whole town has vanished in one day.

The best time to travel: November to February

How to Travel:

• By air: The nearest airport is the Sanganer airport in Jaipur, 56 km from Bhangarh.
• By rail: Dausa railway station, located at a distance of 22 km from Bhangarh, is the nearest rail head.

20. Dive into the Woods of Bandipur

This is the best place if one wishes to dive oneself through wilderness and thrill altogether. Spot snake holes, wild cats, elephants, and monkeys while you drive through the windy roads.

The best time to visit: October to May

How to Travel:

• By rail: Nanajangud Town Railway Station, 56 km from Bandipur, is the nearest rail head.
• By air: Mandakalli airport near Mysore, 69 km from Bandipur, is the nearest airway connected.

21. Explore the Ruins of Hampi

This place is a world heritage sites and one of the most visited sites in India. It is known for its architectural and monumental beauty.

The best time to travel: October to February

How to travel:

• By road: Hampi is one of the weekend getaways from Bangalore and is well connected to Hospet, Hassan, Mysore, and other nearby cities by road.
• By rail: Hospet Junction, the nearest railway station to Hampi, is about 13 km away.
• By air: Hubli Airport (144 km away) and Belgaum Airport (215 km away) are two major domestic airports near Hampi.

22. The Dhuandhar Falls at Jabalpur

The spectacular white water falls are a must visit place in India. The spellbound view shall surely leave your jaws dropped.

The best time to travel: August to March

How to Travel:

• By air: Dumna domestic airport in Jabalpur is the nearest airport.
• By rail: Jabalpur Junction is the nearest railway head.

23. The colors festival in Mathura

Indulge yourself in the raas leela of Vrindavan. This place celebrates the philosophy of living Krishna. This festival of colors is ecstatic and it would be your best lifetime experience.

The best time to travel: November to March

How to travel:

• By road: Mathura is well-connected to Agra (49 km away), Delhi (182 km away), Vrindavan (14 km away), and other cities of North India
• By rail: Mathura has its own railway station.
• By air: Kheria airport in Agra, located at a distance of 49 km from Mathura, is the nearest air connect.

24. The White desert – The Kutch Festival

During the festival, the sky is vibrant with various kites flying in the sky. It is must visit place in India before you turn 30.

The best time to travel: November to February

How to travel:

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

25. Go Paragliding in Solang

Wish to notice green valleys, snow covered mountains, and panoramic views? Then go paragliding in Solang. The adventurous experience will keep you spellbound and give you a paradise like experience.

The best time to travel: November to February

How to travel:

• By air: Bhuntar Airport, 64 km away, is the nearest airport.
• By rail: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, 177 km away, is the nearest rail head.
• By road: Solang is only 14 km away from Manali.

26. The only Golden Temple in Amritsar

This temple is a marvel in itself. It is the true symbol of deity, piousness, and paradise. It is a spiritual gateway which shall nourish your soul for the lifetime.

The best time to visit: November to February

How to travel:
By air: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar is well-connected to other cities.
By rail: Amritsar Junction Railway Station has an extensive network of trains

Suggested Tour: 7 Nights / 8 Days Golden Triangle Tour with Golden Temple

27. The Red Corridor of Orissa

The Konark Temple in Orissa has a lot to tell about the existence of Human sexuality. Apart from this Orissa has a lot of other exceptionally picturesque destinations awaiting your arrival.

The best time to visit: September to March

How to travel:

• By air: Bhubaneswar airport, 62 km from Konark, is connected by frequent flights to numerous major cities India including Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
• By rail: Puri Railway Station, 36 km away, is connected to all major cities.

28. Saikhowa National Park in Assam

Witness the animals in their natural habitat not only in a jeep but by way of jungle walk and boat rides. The Sikhowa National Park has spectacular flora, fauna, and wildlife to witness.

The best time to travel: October to April

How to travel:

• 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.

29. Rishikesh – White water Rafting

Rishikesh is the most famous spot for white water rafting. Thrill and Chill yourself amidst the huge water splashed coming your way while you raft through it. This place is a must visit if the bursting energy and enthusiasm in you are still left.

The best time to travel: September to November and February to June

How to Travel:

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

30. Travel in a toy train – Kalka to Shimla

Experience your childhood once again by traveling in a toy train from Kalka to Shimla. On the way you can witness, verdant valleys, snow covered ranges, and pine forests. If not Shimla then this you catch up the toy train in Darjeeling, Ooty or Matheran.

The best time to travel: Year Round

Suggested Tour: 06 Nights / 07 Days Silver Triangle Tour

So the 30 places which we found best for you end here, there may be other places which you wish to explore. We hope you all the best for the travel endeavors.