15 of the Best Places to Visit in India, According to Experts

"Stretching along the southernmost part of India's Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises "showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings," says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene."

"On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different-but equally captivating-landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland. Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrow once proclaimed in Farsi, "If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,""

India displays extraordinary regional diversity, encompassing tropical coasts, marshy backwaters, tea-covered hills, historic port cities, alpine valleys, and snowy mountain landscapes. Kerala's backwaters provide overnight houseboat cruises that reveal village life and lush scenery; Munnar's tea plantations and Kochi's coastal history and art scene add further variety, while the Malabar Coast reflects spice-trade heritage. Kashmir's alpine climate, evergreen forests, and snowy winters create scenery often compared to Switzerland. The country contains forts, mausoleums, wildlife tours, mountain adventures, beaches, and a broad cultural inclusiveness that yields numerous distinct travel experiences across 15 standout destinations.

Read at Travel + Leisure