Malavika Bhattacharya

You couldn’t fault India for diversity and charm. From the snow-covered Himayala to the golden dunes of the Thar Desert, this country makes for a radical collision of terrains, cultures and wildlife. As far as holiday destinations go, few are as fascinating. And in fact, whether you’re in search of royal splendour, a chilled-out beach hideaway, a jungle safari, a vibrant city break or just a healthy dose of history, you’ll be raving about any trip here for years to come.  Researching where to visit in India? Certain regions have remained perennial favourites for decades. Many first-time visitors to India fall for the slow pace of life in backwater-riddled Kerala, while others prefer the grandeur of the Golden Triangle circuit, stretching from historic capital Delhi to Agra – home to the Taj Mahal – to palace-filled Jaipur. Beyond these tried and tested areas, however, there are various under-the-radar places to stay that are slowly but steadily luring in more adventurous visitors. Mysore in southern India draws yoga enthusiasts from around the world, and fauna-packed Madhya Pradesh is becoming a go-to destination for wildlife buffs. Discover these and more in our pick of the best places to visit in India right now. Discover India: 🛎️ The very best hotels in India🛣️ Unmissable road trips in India

The best parks in Delhi are for everyone: history buffs, architecture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In a city where you can peel away history like the layers of an onion while browsing through museums and markets, parks with medieval monuments and the relics of ancient dynasties offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past. Delhi’s landscaped green spaces double up as cultural hubs; spaces where art, music, history and nature seamlessly blend into one another. And for those times when all you need is a total and complete escape from an overwhelming city bursting at the seams with enticing things to do, Delhi’s urban forests are the answer. Here’s where to breathe easy in a chaotic city. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Delhi🍛 The best Delhi street food🏛 The best museums in Delhi🪩 The best clubs in Delhi

India’s sprawling capital city is also the country’s number one shopping destination. Just as the city is a melting pot of people and cultures from across India, so is the shopping scene a microcosm of the country’s finest offerings. Pashminas from Kashmir in the north or coffee from Karnataka in the south: there isn’t much you won’t find in Delhi’s shops and bazaars. From traditional handicrafts to contemporary homeware, established Indian designers to indie fashion labels, shopping in Delhi is a vast, varied and ever evolving activity, best to be pursued after fueling up at the city’s best restaurants and pubs or while enjoying the just-as-enticing street foods. As usual, we’re here to help: here is where to go to stuff your bags with crafts, design finds, edibles and beauty buys. Ready to shop?