Coming up with the best holiday destinations of India is not an easy task, as India is very diverse, with each destination having its own unique attraction. There are beaches, mountains, wonderful architecture, adventure, culture and fun… all to be experienced in India.

Here are some of the top 5 places of India to visit this year.

Kerala – God’s Own Country

Kerala is where India forgets her busy pace, stops to smell the flowers and settles down to talk to strangers. Everything glows in this beautiful state, and it is no wonder National Geographic Traveler voted it as one of the top ten travel destinations in the world. In Kerala you must make a stop at Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East. Staying in a traditional houseboat and cruising through the backwaters is a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of this area. Also the month of February is full of festivities and celebrations for the state. In Palakkad district, the Pariyanampetta Pooram Festival is held in mid-February. This festival features a procession of 21 decorated elephants, shadow puppetry (Tholpavakoothu) and religious and folk arts like Kathakali and Chakiyarkoothu.

Sikkim – Quaint hill city

Take a tour on a spectacular driving safari in the magical land of monasteries and mountains. Sikkim is well known for its myriad variety of biodiversity in flora and fauna, culture and its people. Visit Pemayangtse monastery and Rabdentse ruins. You can also walk up the nearby hill to visit the Dubdi Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim and then visit Norbuling, the place where the first King of Sikkim was coronated in 1641 AD.

Madhya Pradesh – The land of wildlife and wisdom

Step into the wild zone at Bandhavgarh, and if you are lucky you will spot the majestic tiger enroute to the erotic lost temples of Khajuraho. Safari trips into the mighty jungles, which were once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Reva, will reveal the mega fauna including tigers and leopards. Continue on to Khajuraho to be mesmerized by the Kamasutra carvings that rank amongst the most sensual temple architecture in the world. Apart from exploring these beautifully sculptured temples, you can also witness the much-celebrated Khajuraho Dance Festival that takes place in the month of February.

Rajasthan – The Royal land of the warriors

‘The Land of all that is Royal’ Rajasthan is simply awe-inspiring. Rajasthan has some of India’s most prominent cities and forts reminding one of its warrior legacies. As you drive through the sun-kissed Thar Desert, you will see the nomads and their camel caravans. The cities of Jodhpur, the mighty fort of Jaisalmer and the palace city of Udaipur are sure to mesmerize you!

Kashmir – Switzerland of India

Kashmir lies between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal range. It offers tourists and trekkers an unmatched sightseeing and tourism experience. Also Kashmiri culture and hospitality is the most talked about in the country. Here you can explore the spectacular mountains, sparkling lakes  with sailing shikaras delivering colourful tulips and find accommodation in the floating houseboats on the Dal lake. The snowy Gulmarg region during February comes alive as many skiers visit to enjoy the skiing season.