Think of India and its likely that visions of formidable forts, palaces, and temples will come to mind, set against a backdrop of bright colors and history. That's exactly what north India provides. These must see north India tourist places will give you a taste of what the mystical side of India is all about.
1. Delhi
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India's capital city, Delhi, is unavoidable if you're visiting north India from another country. Delhi airport has been renovated and upgraded to be the largest in India, and your flight will land there. Delhi strikingly brings to life the ancient past while at the same time showcases India's modern future. It's divided into two parts -- the crumbling old city of Old Delhi, and the orderly and well planned New Delhi -- which exist side by side, but feel like they're worlds apart. The city is dotted with spellbinding mosques, forts, and monuments left over from the Mughal rulers that once occupied the city. Many of these are set in beautiful landscaped gardens that are perfect for relaxing.
2. Taj Mahal
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One of top 5 historical places in India, it would be a huge loss to visit India and miss out on seeing the Taj Mahal. After all, the Taj Mahal is India's most famous monument -- and certainly the most identifiable. It looms fairytale-like from the banks of the Yamuna River and has a rich history dating back to 1630 AD. It's actually a tomb that contains the body of Mumtaz Mahal –- the wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Made out of marble, it took 22 years and 20 000 workers to complete. Words cannot do the Taj Mahal justice, its incredible detail simply has to be seen to be appreciated. One of the most captivating things about it is the way its color appears to gradually alter in the changing light of the day.
3. Udaipur
Sharell Cook
Udaipur is said to be India's most romantic city, and it really is true! Who could resist the allure of its enchanting old mansions, beautiful gardens, intricate temples, and grand palaces overlooking expansive shimmering lakes. The City Palace, which stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, leaves visitors spellbound. The way it has been constructed is exquisite, with Rajput military architecture and Mughal style decorative techniques both combined together. The Mewar royal family still lives in a part of it too!
4. Jaislamer
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Jaisalmer is often referred to as being straight out of a romantic Arabian Nights fable. It's a cliche, but how better to describe this remarkable sandstone city that rises magically from the sand dunes of the Rajasthan desert? Jaisalmer's mesmerizing ancient fort, built in 1156, is perched high on a pedestal overlooking the city. Inside, the fort is vibrant and evocative. It houses five palaces, several temples, and some exquisite havelis (mansions), as well as shops and other residences. Staying inside the fort is an experience not to be forgotten.
5. Varanasi
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One of the top 5 spiritual destinations in India, Varanasi is a sacred Hindu city with a very old history. Known as the city of Lord Shiva, the god of creation and destruction, it’s believed that anyone who dies here will be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation. Even a wash in the Ganges River is said to cleanse away all sins. The fascinating thing about this mystical city is that its rituals are revealed openly to along the many riverside ghats. Staying at a hotel overlooking the Ganges is highly recommended and memorable.
