Best Places to Visit in India for Nepalese

Known for its incredible diversity, India is a nation that offers a plethora of travel destinations that differ in terms of architecture, history, culture, and atmosphere. 

So, taking this into consideration, we’ve grouped this nation’s most renowned attractions into various travel themes, making it easier for Nepali visitors to choose their preferred destination that best suits their interests.

Culture and Heritage Travel

India is a country with a very diverse culture, landscapes, food practices, and languages, and it can offer various travel experiences to Nepali tourists. And, for Nepalis interested in history and culture, traveling to this destination can be an exceptionally rewarding experience.

India’s Most Iconic Travel Circuit

For first time visitors, the Golden Triangle Tour, consisting of cities like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, offers a perfect introduction to India’s lively atmosphere, century-old landmarks, and colorful markets.

Visit iconic landmarks like India Gate, Taj Mahal, Jama Masjid (mosque), Jal Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar, as they perfectly encapsulate India’s endless beauty and timeless charm.

Forts, Palaces & Desert Adventures in Rajasthan

Likewise, Rajasthan, also nicknamed the “Land of Kings,” can be another great destination, as it provides visitors a glimpse into India’s royal past. Home to many ancient forts, majestic palaces, and the Thar Desert, one can go on a desert safari/fun camel rides, attend traditional dance performances, and taste the most mouthwatering Rajasthani foods.

Similarly, Kolkata and Bhubaneswar are perfect for spiritual tourists, art enthusiasts, and photographers, as these cities offer numerous ancient temples, rock cut caves (like Udayagiri and Khandagiri), and artistic museums ideal for exploration and immersive learning. 

Explore South India’s Historic Treasures

For a taste of South India’s colonial history, tour sites like Madurai, Thanjavur, and Puducherry. Out of these, Puducherry (also known as Pondicherry) strongly showcases this aspect, as it was under the control of French rule for nearly 280 years.

Landmarks like White Town, Raj Niwas, Puducherry Museum, and the French War Memorial showcase the lasting impressions of French architecture and culture. 

Nature and Wellness Travel

Tamil Nadu, a mesmerizing state belonging to the southern region of India, is one of the country’s emerging travel destinations. Famously known for its classical artforms, Dravidian style temples, and spectacular cuisines, this state comprises many popular cities like Madurai, Thanjavur, Coimbatore, Rameshwaram, and Kanchipuram. 

Explore Tamil Nadu’s Hidden Natural Wonders

India’s charm certainly lies in the bustling atmosphere of metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi, but for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the peaceful and tranquil side of India, destinations like Kutralam, Kolli Hills, Kotagiri, Pichavaram Mangrove Forests, Valparai, and Megamalai are perfect to explore. 

Discover Kerala’s Tranquil Backwaters

Nicknamed “God’s Own Country”, Kerala is well suited for Nepali tourists wanting to add a bit of relaxation and nature to their holidays. If you’re someone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and crave a fresh atmosphere where traveling feels more vibrant, then this southwestern state can provide you with just that. 

A true Kerala highlight is spending a night in a houseboat in Alappuzha (also known as Alleppey), where you cruise through the serene backwaters and witness picturesque views of local rustic homes, ancient churches, lush-green paddies, and coconut groves. This destination also offers many wellness activities that allow visitors to enjoy herbal oil massages, yoga, and meditation classes.

Experience Goa’s Best Beaches and Coastal Charm

Similarly, Goa is perfect for experiencing India’s tropical coastline atmosphere. Having renowned beaches like Vagator and Anjuna, one can enjoy water sport activities like parasailing and jet skiing. Travelers looking to unwind, relax on beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch cotton candy sunsets will find Goa a memorable experience. 

Spiritual and Pilgrimage Travel

Just like Nepal, India is a nation that deeply values its spiritual and religious side. Believed to be the birthplace of Hindu gods like Ram and Krishna, this country is visited by large numbers of Nepali pilgrims looking to go on religious tours.

Top Pilgrimage Destinations of India

Sacred cities like Varanasi, Prayagraj, Sarnath, and Ayodhya are often paired together during tours, as they are home to many ancient temples, ghats, and holy rivers.

Due to the spiritual atmosphere offered by these destinations, pilgrims often engage in a number of religious activities, like taking dips in holy rivers, performing funeral rites, and seeking blessings from priests. 

Sarnath’s Top Buddhist Sites

Additionally, Sarnath is more suitable for Buddhist pilgrims as it features many prestigious Buddhist sites like Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Ashoka Pillar, believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha after he gained enlightenment.

Varanasi: Top Temples and Ghats

Located in the southeast part of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is another revered destination, which is home to numerous temples like Kal Bhairav, Shri Kashi Vishwanath, and Annapurna Devi that carry significant religious value.

Discover the Sacred Heritage of Ayodhya

Similarly, Ayodhya, said to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, is deeply connected with the Ramayan and features many notable landmarks like Shri Ramjanmbhumi Temple, Hanuman Garhi Temple, Dasrath Mahal, Kanak Bhavan, Sita Ki Rasoi, and the Saryu River.

Soak in Prayagraj’s Spiritual Atmosphere

Another prominent city for Hindu devotees is Prayagraj, located in the southern part of Uttar Pradesh state. One of the city’s most prominent sites is Triveni Sangam, which is the convergence of three sacred rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. 

In Hindu mythology, it’s believed that taking a dip at the Triveni Sangam river helps to gain moksha (liberation from the cycle of life and death). The Maha Kumbh Mela, organized every 144 years, was also celebrated here last year (2025), where thousands of pilgrims from many neighboring nations visited this city. 

Prayagraj also has many revered temples, where a few of the most renowned ones include Alopi Devi, Shri Bade Hanuman Ji, Mankamshewar, and Nag Vasuki. Whether you’re looking for spiritual fulfillment or are interested in exploring India’s religious heritage, all of the destinations mentioned above offer deeply enriching experiences.

Food and Shopping Travel

India offers a ton of options for food and shopping, with many cities showcasing their own unique markets, flavors, and cultural traditions.

Delhi’s Shopping Hubs

Let’s start with Delhi, a metropolitan city in the northern region of India. Though this destination is known for historical landmarks, there’s something about its vibrant markets that seem to perfectly encapsulate the city’s vibrant soul.

Chandni Chowk, nestled in the heart of Old Delhi, is one of the nation’s most popular markets that we recommend you visit. Established in the 17th century during the ruling of Emperor Shah Jahan, this bazaar has it all, from ethnic Indian wear to jewellery, books, spices, and handicrafts. Mornings at the market are said to be much calmer, but as the day progresses, this attraction comes alive as shops start to open and locals and tourists gather to shop. 

A few must see spots include Dariba Kalan, where you’ll be able to find an exquisite selection of jewellery, Kinari Bazaar, featuring a variety of fabrics and decoration materials and Khari Baoli for fragrant Indian spices. Other markets in Delhi are Dilli Haat, Sarojini Nagar, and Janpath Market. 

Mumbai’s Gastronomic Delights

Likewise, head to Mumbai, where you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of India’s modern life and diverse food cultures. Popular areas for shopping include Colaba Causeway and Crawford Market.

If you’re looking for flavorful street foods to try, then explore Girgaum Chowpatty, which offers many options like pav bhaji, bhel puri, and pani puri. Likewise, Mohammed Ali Road is a paradise for meat lovers, Mughlai dishes, and desserts.

Famous Biryani Spot

Hyderabad is where royal heritage meets spectacular cuisines! Nicknamed the “Biryani Capital of India,” many foodies gather here to taste the world famous biryani. Other special qualities of this southern city are its royal palaces, ancient temples, and art museums. A few noteworthy areas that focus on gastronomy and shopping here include Charminar Bazaar, Begum Bazaar, and Sarath City Capital Mall.

Chennai’s Bazaars and Food Delicacies

Moving on to Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. This bustling city has remained a top pick for many international tourists, as there are many historical, adventurous, and cultural attractions. 

Visit Pondy Bazaar and Express Avenue Mall for fun shopping experiences, and food lovers can try authentic South Indian delicacies like dosas, idlis, and rasam. 

For shopping experiences in Kochi, tour places like Lulu Mall for international brands, Broadway Market for textiles/household goods, and Jew Town for antique items. During your time there, don’t miss out on Kerala specialties like sadya, idiyappam, and chatti pathiri. 

Himalayan and Mountain Travel

Sikkim and Darjeeling’s Himalayan Views

For himalayan and mountain travel, destinations like Sikkim and Darjeeling can be great places to explore. Not only do these attractions offer breathtaking mountain scenery but also share many cultural and linguistic similarities to Nepal.

Nepali is widely spoken in both Sikkim and Darjeeling; travelers can easily communicate with many locals. Likewise in terms of religion, both Hinduism and Buddhism are practiced here, so visitors have the opportunity to experience familiar cultural traditions and cuisines while at the same time having the opportunity to experience these places' unique heritage.

Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Maghe Sankranti, and Lhosar are widely celebrated in many local communities, and many restaurants here also provide a handful of dishes like thukpa, selroti, gundruk, momo, dal bhat and tarkari, and aloo dum, providing travelers a sense of comfort while being far away from home. 

If you’re wondering what places to travel to in Sikkim, then one unmissable spot that we recommend is Tsogmo Lake, located in the eastern region. Covered in snow during winter, Tsomgo is said to show its truest form during the spring season as the heavy snow starts to melt, revealing the lake’s iridescent deep blue color!

To travel to Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim, you are required to carry the following documents as a Nepali tourist:

• Original Passport or Citizenship
• 2 passport-size photos per person.
• For guests below 16, they can carry their birth certificate and school ID cards.

Note: Xerox copies of the above documents are mandatory. 

Other sites worth visiting in Sikkim are MG Marg, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Nam Nang Viewpoint, Flower Exhibition Center, Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts, Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, and Bakthang Waterfalls.

Northern India’s Attractions

Ladakh is a fantastic destination for adventure lovers. Located in the northern region of India, it’s known for its deep-blue lakes, postcard-worthy mountains, and scenic desert valleys.

With Leh being one of the largest towns, it’s home to many charming sightseeing attractions such as Pangong Tso Lake, Khardung La Pass, Hemis National Park, Thiksey Monastery, Leh Market, and Nubra Valley, located in and around this city.

Similar to Ladakh, Spiti Valley is another breathtaking Himalayan attraction. Here, you’ll be welcomed with epic views of mountain ranges, rural villages, and serene lakes. To get the best experience, you can explore historical monasteries, visit local villages, and enjoy scenic views of mountain ranges while going on drives.

As India is divided into many regions, we’ve provided you with the most suitable months to travel to this nation.

For Southern India

• Popular Destinations: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Hyderabad, and Pondicherry
• Optimal months: November to March and December to February
• Best For: Temple exploration, beach/holiday escapes, road trips, and scenic journeys

For Northern and Western India

• Popular Destinations: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Amritsar, Indore, Mumbai, Dwarka, Sarnath, and Varanasi
• Optimal months: October to March
• Best For: Exploring historical landmarks, shopping, and religious tours

For Himalayan Region

• Popular Destinations: Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir
• Optimal months: May to September
• Best For: Outdoor adventure activities like trekking, mountain road trips, visiting temples and monasteries

For Eastern and Northeastern Regions

• Popular Destinations: Kolkata, Bhubaneshwar, Assam, Puri, Sikkim, and Darjeeling
• Optimal months: October to April
• Best For: Spiritual pilgrimage tours, visiting tea gardens and exploring cultural attractions

For Central India

• Popular Destinations: Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, and Jabalpur
• Optimal months: October to March
• Best For: Visiting national parks, ancient heritage sites, and enjoying scenic landscapes

To reach India from Nepal, one can choose to travel either by road or air. Though both these modes of transportation have their own set of pros and cons, we’ve provided you with the most popular routes (for the road) and convenient flight options, which will help you figure out which option best suits your needs.

By Road

• Sunauli Border (Bhairawa): The most popular and advised route for travelers planning to visit cities like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, or western India.
• Raxaul Border: Ideal if you’re planning to explore sites like Patna, Kolkata, and eastern parts of India.
• Kakkarbhitta Border: Best if you want to tour places like Darjeeling, Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Mirik.
• Mahendranagar Border: Perfect for destinations like Nainital, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
• Nepalgunj Border (Rupaidiha): Optimal for touring places like Bihar, Lucknow, and Kanpur.

By Air

For those planning to reach via flight, here are the most popular flight options:

Note: All the destinations mentioned above provide direct flights from Kathmandu except for Goa, as there’s usually a layover either in Delhi or Mumbai.

A major reason why a huge number of tourists travel to India is due to the visa free policy that came as a result of the Indo Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed by both the nations in 1950. This treaty allowed citizens of the nations to freely travel between these countries without acquiring a visa.

During your travel to India, make sure to carry these documents with you:

• Valid identity card such as an original citizenship or passport.
• For parents traveling with children below 16, please make sure to carry your children’s original birth certificate (issued by the Government of Nepal) and school identity card. 

Note: Additionally, for maximum safety, also make sure to also carry digital copies of these documents in case you lose them while traveling.

Note: Please take into consideration that this is just an estimation table, and the budget you come up with may depend upon the destination, number of travel days, and sightseeing activities.

Accomodation Options: From Budget to Luxury

To help you trip better, we have provided three types of accommodation that you can take a look at before making reservations. 

With so many states, cities, and towns in India, it can definitely be an overwhelming process for first time and frequent visitors to navigate their way through this nation.

And so, with this in mind, we dedicated this section of the blog to highlighting a few of our best selling travel packages, which feature this country’s most prominent landmarks, colorful markets, and vibrant atmosphere.

Whether you’re someone who wants pure adventure or are looking for something entirely new, we guarantee we have something just for you! All of the travel packages are fully customizable and can be tailored to your ultimate needs, so just give us a call or send us a quick query through our website.

Why Choose Us?

With 10 plus years of experience in the travel industry, Holidays to Nepal is an employee-owned travel company with an unwavering commitment to excellence in travel arrangements.

Rather than just providing clients with a standard tour package, our company aims to craft experiences that go beyond just the ordinary. With a dedicated focus on delivering exceptional value, we ensure every aspect of your journey to India is meticulously planned and executed to perfection. 

As passionate travel experts, we prioritize personalized services and strive to exceed expectations, as each part of your journey can easily be customizable and tailored to fit your needs. 

Essential travel aspects like sightseeing destinations, tour duration, and hotel category can all be adjusted, as our top priority remains on providing you with ultimate satisfaction. 

Likewise, our tour packages cover many prominent destinations of India, so whether you’re dreaming of going on a pilgrimage tour, planning a Himalayan adventure or craving a relaxing getaway, we are here to turn all those travel fantasies into realities!

Our dedicated team will ensure that you get only the best services, as we provide continuous assistance, transparent communication and attention to detail throughout your journey to this beautiful nation.

Before traveling to India, it’s always best to learn about the essential travel tips as this will help you plan your trip in a much smoother way. In this section, we’ve covered all the key things you need to know. 

Check the Entry Requirements

Nepali citizens do not need a visa while traveling to India due to the Indo Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed by both these countries in 1950. This treaty allowed citizens of the nations to freely travel between these countries without acquiring a visa.

But we do advise you to carry all the necessary documents like those listed down below:

• Valid identity card such as original citizenship, passport, or NID (National Identity) card.
• For parents traveling with children below 16, please make sure to carry your children’s original birth certificate and school identity card.

Money and Payment Options

India accepts both traditional cash and digital methods of payments, so we urge you to carry a mix of both. Each traveler has their own spending habits, which depend upon various factors while traveling, but in a general sense, it is advised to take around 15,000 - 20,000 INR (or more depending on your travel needs) in India for a week.

This budget allows you to pay for expenses such as additional flights/sightseeing, dining, shopping, and any other miscellaneous travel costs.

Similarly, cash is generally preferred in many local restaurants, small souvenir shops, street markets, and rural areas, so carrying 2000-3000 Indian Rupee is ideal for most purchases, whereas credit cards (like Visa and Mastercard) can be used in many hotels, shopping malls, and larger establishments.

Travel Safely

If you’re planning to visit India on your own, then you must take your safety in your own hands. While using transportation, use registered taxis and trusted ride hailing apps, especially during night time.

Always drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water. Travelers are also advised not to travel during the night, especially alone, and if you have to travel during this time, you can share your live location with someone for maximum safety. Also, dress modestly and wear full length clothing when visiting temple sites and religious areas. 

It is also suggested to keep your valuables and travel documents safely and avoid displaying expensive items. 

Apps to Download

These are a few apps that you can download before their trip to India:

• Uber/Ola: For booking transportation
• Zomato/Swiggy: For food deliveries
• Practo: If you need medical help while traveling
• WhatsApp: For communication
• IRCTC Rail Connect: For booking trains 

Emergency Numbers to Know

• 112: National emergency number 
• 100: Police 
• 101: Fire 
• 102: Ambulance 
• 1363: Tourist helpline
• 1091: Women in distress 
• 1073: Road accident 

Getting a Local SIM Card

Nepali citizens wanting to purchase a local SIM card in India can do so either at international airports or official mobile stores. Additionally, there are three SIM card options that you can choose from, which are Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone.

To obtain a SIM card, you will need to provide the following documents and details:

• A photocopy of passport
• 1-2 passport sized photos
• Details of your local address (hotel that you’re staying in)
• Basic personal information

Furthermore, SIM cards purchased at airports can usually take around 1 to 10 hours to be activated, whereas those bought from local stores can take anywhere between 24-48 hours.

Pack Smartly

India experiences diverse weather conditions, so while traveling to this nation, you need to pack smartly. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes that are made out of cotton or linen materials, as they feel cool on the skin and also easily soak up moisture. 

Furthermore, make sure that you also carry travel essentials like hats/caps, sunglasses, type C, D, and M power plugs that work on 230 voltage at a frequency of 50 Hz, sunscreen, a water bottle, insect repellent, and a windbreaker as well, among other things.

Why should Nepali travelers consider visiting India?

India can be a great destination for Nepali tourists due to its close proximity, shared religious/cultural values, and diverse sightseeing destinations. Additionally, Nepali visitors are also provided with a visa free policy as well. 

Is India safe for Nepali tourists?

Yes, India is generally a safe destination for Nepali tourists, and each year thousands of travelers visit this nation for holidays, pilgrimage, shopping, and business trips.

But like any international destination, we advise you to be careful and prioritize your own safety. Before traveling, make sure to check the political situation and stay updated on the recent travel news.

What languages are most commonly spoken in India?

People in India speak a plethora of languages. Hindi is most widely spoken in many parts of the nation, especially in the northern and central regions. Similarly, English is also commonly spoken, especially in tourist centred areas like hotels and airports. Depending upon the region, locals also speak Bengali, Tamil, Malayalam, and Marathi.

Is India expensive compared to Nepal?

In a general sense, the cost of traveling to India in comparison to Nepal can be a bit higher, but this also largely depends upon your preferred destination, travel style, tour duration, and people traveling. But this nation also offers affordable options for accommodation, transportation, and food.

What cultural tips should Nepali tourists know before traveling to India?

A few cultural tips that Nepali tourists should know before traveling to India include when visiting religious sites:

• Dress moderately and wear full length clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
• Always take off your shoes before visiting sacred sites
• Avoid engaging in PDA’s as this is heavily frowned upon.
• Always ask for permission first if you want to take photos/videos. 

Is WiFi easily available in India?

Yes, WiFi is available in major tourist areas like airports, hotels, malls, and restaurants. However, if you’re planning to stay for a longer duration, then purchasing a local SIM card can be handy, as you can easily have internet access without relying on external sources.

Can the travel package featured on this blog be customized to my tastes and preferences?

Yes, absolutely! You can totally customize all the packages and change them to your liking. Things like sightseeing destinations, number of travel days, and type of accommodation/transportation can be tailored to suit your comfort and convenience.