1. Kashmir (Kashmir)
Kashmir, part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is a region where India’s control is partial, with an ongoing decades-long conflict between India and Pakistan over control of the area. Despite this, it must be noted that this place is a true paradise of beauty, bordering on surreal. In the city of Srinagar, located on the shores of Dal Lake, you can see houseboats floating on canals, with the option of sailing through a floating market. In winter, the town of Gulmarg is a popular destination for ski enthusiasts. However, as mentioned, it is a region with a persistent conflict, and it may not be safe to visit here, at least as of the time of writing these lines.
2. Shimla (Shimla)
In the past, this was the summer capital of British India, so it’s not surprising to find a lot of colonial architecture here, which offers the chance to enjoy stunning panoramic views. The average elevation of the city is about 2,000 meters above sea level, and the weather is very pleasant in the summer, making it a popular vacation spot. In the winter, many tourists also visit, mainly for the snow and skiing, and in general, it boasts some very worthwhile shopping centers. Alongside the picturesque scenery, this is certainly one of the more impressive places in northern India.
3. Dharamshala (Dharamshala)
Although the official seat of the Tibetan people is in Tibet, this is the residence of the Dalai Lama and the large Tibetan government led by him, which sees itself as responsible and decision-making over Tibetan affairs. It is a place that is amazing primarily in its simplicity, but it boasts a rich culture and authentic cuisine worth trying. This is one of the main destinations tourists visit to learn about Buddhism, and if that interests you, it is definitely worth visiting at least once in your life.
4. Manali (Manali)
In the past, the residents of Manali made their living by growing apples and cherries, but today the city is full of hostels and cafes. It is very popular with Israeli backpackers, and it loves Israelis in return, as there are many signs and menus in Hebrew, and even libraries with Hebrew books. All of this applies to the old part of Manali, but in the new part of the town (New Manali), there is a very large market where Indian tourism is concentrated. If you want to encounter fewer Israeli backpackers, it is recommended to visit the new part of town.
5. Mussoorie (Mussoorie)
In terms of natural beauty, Mussoorie may be the most enchanting place waiting for you in Northern India. It is a city located on a hill in the heart of the mountains, and it has an old-world charm that attracts tourists from all over India and the world. You will find waterfalls there that you can and should bathe under, and it is a perfect place for a picnic in nature, enjoying the perfect beauty that surrounds you. You can take a cable car to higher altitudes and get a breathtaking view of all the surrounding mountains and valleys. This experience is simply unforgettable.
6. Varanasi (Varanasi)
This city is not for all travelers, and if you're looking for a less crowded and noisy place, you might want to avoid it. However, if you are interested in experiencing an ancient cultural and spiritual center in India, this is the place. There is an ancient city here that is highly recommended to tour, and here you will find the Ganges River, considered sacred in Hinduism, where believers often immerse themselves in its waters, despite it being a site where bodies and the ashes of the dead are regularly thrown.
7. Leh (Leh)
During the few summer months, many tourists from all over the world visit here, as this city is relatively well-developed in terms of infrastructure, with many hotels, hostels, restaurants, and a bustling market. From here, you can go on tours to villages and Buddhist monasteries, as well as many treks. Near the city lies the Khardung La pass, which is the highest road pass in the world for land vehicles, at an altitude of 5,600 meters above sea level.
8. Jim Corbett National Park (Jim Corbett National Park)
This is India’s first national park, and it’s a very popular tourist spot, partly because of the many elephants, deer, reptiles, and birds here, but also because of bears and the largest population of tigers in all of India. The park is divided into 6 zones, each offering a different experience, with the most popular being the Dhikala zone, where you'll find a guesthouse built hundreds of years ago and where you can also see elephants.
9. Udaipur (Udaipur)
This city of lakes is rich in history, and not for nothing is it called the "Venice of the East," even though it shares this nickname with a few other places in Asia and even in India. There are palaces and architecture that are a delight to the eyes, going back in time to the periods when the Maharajas ruled Rajasthan. You can tour all these historic sites, which include forts, temples, and also bustling markets.
