Unfortunately, I was spoilt for choice. So, I had to include more than one place in most of the states. But I assure you, it's worth it!
Odisha (My Home State)
Konark (The Sun Temple)
Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar
This beautiful place bears a very striking resemblance to Switzerland’s topography, the well known romanticizing location. Khajjar is located at the foot of Dhauladkar , in the lap of Himalayas and is 2000 meters above sea level.
Sar Pass
The Sar pass, a popular tourist destination and a great pace for adventure lovers and treks, gets its name from a small frozen lake that is a part of the Sar pass trek too. When uttermost peace and natural scenic beauty is all you want to accompany you, the 12,500 feet above sea level destination is the place to be. Its quite a risky trekking spot and that ensures that loners definitely get here .
Jammu and Kashmir
Dal Lake
Dal lake, the iconic destination of the Kashmir valley, also referred to as heaven on earth is one of the bollywood’s favorite shooting sights. The mughal gardens by the lake’s shore go back to jehangir’s reign and the shikaras, houseboats in the lake are the best way to embark upon the nature.
Tsomoriri Lake
Another jewel in the crown of Ladakh is the Tsomoriri Lake. [Did you know that it is also known as the 'Mountain Lake'?] The lake is situated in Changthang Plateau, one of the highest and widest plateaus in the world is a among the must visit places in India .
Kashmir Valley
Kashmir valley is no doubt the most beautiful destinations in india. The heaven on earth tag is always linked to Kashmir for its evergreen landscapes and snow-filled mountains. A visit to Kashmir should definitely include seeing the Shalimar gardens, visit to Dal lake and the shikaras and gulmarg. Mountaineering and river rafting are good adventure activities in Kashmir.
Zanskar Valley
Zanskar valley is filled with small hamlets, less population and gorgeous views and with this range you have plenty of chances to start clicking perfect moments which makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in India.
Khardung La Pass
Khardung La Pass needs no introduction. It is widely, but incorrectly, believed to be the highest motorable pass in the world, located at a little over 17,000 feet above sea level. The pass is about 40 km from the town of Leh, and an important destination for those seeking adventure. Adventure seekers come here for a thrilling mountain biking experience and a road trip.
Nubra Valley
Located about 150 km from the town of Leh is the Nubra Valley. It is also referred to as the valley of flowers, because it is covered with some really beautiful flowers during the summer months. The beautiful flowers are kind of complemented by the largely rugged terrain of the valley, as is the case with the rest of Ladakh.
Uttaranchal
Valley of Flowers
The Valley of Flowers is a national park located in the upper reaches of the Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand is a must visit place in India. The park is a true paradise for botanists and anybody else who loves the glory of nature. It stands true to its name, with several species of exotic flowers to be seen here.
Roopkund Lake
The Himalayan region is blessed with several gorgeous high altitude lakes. But the one which catches the maximum attention is the Roopkund Lake, gorgeous, and shrouded in mystery. The lake is situated at a height of about 5,000 meters above sea level in Uttaranchal’s Chamoli District.
Dodital Lake
A freshwater lake located at a height of little more than 3000 meters above sea level is the Dodital Lake. It is also known as the Dhudital Lake, named after Lord Ganesha and is among the must see places in India. It is believed that the lake is the abode of Lord Ganesha, and standing testimony to that fact is a temple dedicated to Him.
Khatling Glacier
Situated the River Bhalingana’s source is the Khatling Glacier, a panoramic site that just takes your breath away. From the glacier, you can see snow capped peaks and several hanging glaciers in the vicinity.
Uttar Pradesh
Ghats in Varanasi
Varanasi is believed to be the oldest civilizations is among the must India. Situated on the banks of the River Ganga, the city holds a sacred spot in Hinduism. Every year, lakhs converge on the ghats of Varanasi for performing the last rites of their relatives and dear ones.
Rajasthan
Jodhpur
Jodhpur is beautiful in a paradoxical kind of way. Most of Jodhpur’s terrain is barren and rugged, which makes it a quintessential desert land. It is one of the largest cities of Rajasthan, offering tourists an opportunity for memorable desert safaris. One of the best safaris you can take in Jodhpur is a Bishnoi Village Safari.
Desert of Jaisalmer
Camel Safari is one of the most memorable and delightful experiences you can have. It gives you an exclusive approach to discover colorful villages in Rajasthan. Travel through the crests and troughs of the naturally formed Sand Dunes on a camel back and experience the essence of life in the Jaisalmer region.Once the night falls, gather around a campfire and enjoy a luxurious treat of cultural performances like lambada dance by the locals.
Lake Pichola
One of the highlights of the beautiful city of Udaipur, Rajasthan is Lake Pichola. The lake overlooks the Lake Palace, making for a fantastic setting is a must see place in India. Lake Pichola, like other lakes in Udaipur, were built over dams in order to serve the water and irrigation needs of the people of the city.
Arunachal Pradesh
Nuranang Falls
Hidden in the wonders of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is the magnificent Nuranang Falls. The falls are about 100 meters high, which might not be much when compared to several other waterfalls in the world.
Sela Pass
Sela Pass is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. Connecting Tawang district to other parts of the country is the Sela Pass. This mountain pass is about 13,800 feet high and gives you some really scenic views of the surrounding views. With its high elevation, you can almost feel the clouds passing through your hands here.
Nagaland
Dzukou Valley
Located at an altitude of a little more than 2000 meters above sea level is the gorgeous Dzukou Valley of Nagaland. The valley lies on the border of Manipur and Nagaland, behind the majestic Japfu Peak. During the summer season, the valley is blessed with different species of flowers, the highlight of which is the Dzukou Lilly.
Sikkim
Gurudongmar Lake
Located at an altitude of a little more than 5000 meters above sea level is Gurudongmar Lake. The lake is located in Sikkim, close to the Chinese border and is known for its scenic views. The fresh water lake remains frozen for most part of the year because of jaw dropping temperatures.
Goecha La Pass
Another gorgeous mountain pass in the Himalayan region is Goecha La Pass in Sikkim. The pass serves as the base camp for those who wish to climb Mount Kanchenjunga, world’s third highest peak. In order to reach the pass, you need to start trekking from Yuksom.
Assam
Majuli
A quaint little island in the state of Assam is Majuli. Once upon a time, the island was spread across an area of about 1,250 square kilometers. However, the raging River Brahmaputra has eroded a large part of the island, and what is left now is a little over 400 square kilometers of area.
Manipur
Loktak Lake
Manipur is home to world’s only floating lake, the Loktak Lake. It is also the largest fresh water lake in this part of the country. The floating mass of vegetation and organic matter give the lake a floating appearance. A part of the lake is home to Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the habitat for Sangai.
West Bengal
Sandakphu
Located close to Singalila National Park in West Bengal is Sandakphu, or Sandakfu, the highest peak of the region. You need to endure a moderately difficult trek in order to reach the summit, but you will be rewarded with awesome views of the Kanchendzonga Peak. There is even a small village at the top of the peak where you can find some hostels for a stay. Of course, there is nothing like camping under the starlit sky and enjoying a cool mountain breeze.
Darjeeling
Tea Gardens
The lush tea gardens of Darjeeling are also among the list of beautiful places in India. Tea gardens of Darjeeling are not only known for their flavorsome tea cultivation, but also for their scenic beauty. Endless stretches of tea plants which tends to vanish with the mist, creates a magical spell on the visitors.
Gujarat
Kutch
During the summer months, the water recedes, giving way to salty land which is barren yet beautiful. The Rann of Kutch is known for road trips in India. It is also known as a habitat for exotic species of birds and animals. There are quite a few wildlife reserves in the region, the most prominent of which is the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Goa
Dudhsagar Falls
If you thought Goa is all about sand, beaches and crazy nightlife, think again. There is more to Goa than meets the eye. For those who would like to see the other side of Goa, head to Dudhsagar Falls. The waterfalls are actually tiered falls about 60 km from the capital city of Panaji.
Maharashtra
Matheran
The smallest hill station of India, but nevertheless beautiful, is Matheran in Maharashtra. Located in the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 2600 feet above sea level, it is about 90 km from the city of Mumbai. Vehicles are banned in this hill station, and the only way to reach it is via a short train journey.
Malshej Ghat
Nestled in the majestic peaks of the Western Ghats is the Malshej Ghat, a popular weekend getaway for people of Mumbai. It is a place blessed with refreshing greenery and mist covered peaks, especially during the months of August and September. There are some gorgeous waterfalls too to visit here.
Tamil Nadu
Tea Estate of Coonoor
A gorgeous hill station in Tamil Nadu is that of Coonoor. It is one of the largest hill stations in the Nilgiris, and also serves as a base for those interested in trekking in the Nilgiri Hills.
Hogenakkal Falls
Gorgeous falls located on River Kaveri in Tamil Nadu are the Hogenakkal Falls. The waterfalls are sometimes called the “Niagara Falls of India”, because the sheer volume and beauty. About 180 km away from the city of Bangalore, the falls are a popular weekend getaway for people who are looking for an opportunity to trek.
During the dry season, you can take a boat ride as the falls are not too strong to cause any danger. However, if you want to see the fall in all their glory, pay a visit around the monsoon season. They are a sight to behold.
Karnataka
Chikmagalur
A beautiful hill station located at the base of Mulayanagiri Range in Karnataka is Chikmagalur. The hill station is sometimes referred to as “coffee land of Karnataka” because of its several coffee plantations.
Kudremukh Shola Grasslands
A famous peak of Chikmagalur district of Karnataka is the Kudremukh peak. The name literally translates to “Horse Face” and refers to a particular section of the peak which looks like the face of a horse. The peak and the surrounding region are known for its shoal grasslands, which are a sight unto themselves. The dense shoal grasslands are home to plenty of wildlife, with animals such as Malabar civet, sloth bear and spotted bear regularly being seen here.
Nandi Hills
A small hill station about 60 km from Bangalore is Nandi Hills. Compared to other famous hill stations of Karnataka, Nandi Hills is a little less frequented, which adds to the charm of the place. It is known for its trekking opportunities and houses the ruins of a fort atop a hill.
Jog Falls
One of the highest waterfalls of India are the Jog Falls in Karnataka. The falls constitute four separate waterfalls, viz. Raja Fall, the Roarer, the Rocket, and Rani Fall. It is an amazing experience just to stand there and look at water coming down at full force from a height. The surrounding greenery makes the falls one of the most beautiful in India.
Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley
A pristine tourist spot in Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh is Araku Valley. Located at a height of about 3000 feet above sea level, the valley is known for Sunkarimetta Forest Reserve and Anantagiri, both of which are biodiversity hot spots.
Belum Caves
They are the longest in India and the second largest in the country, well known for their stalagmite formations. The caves were discovered way back in 1884 by a British named Robert Foote. The caves have several passages and chambers to explore, making it a mystical experience. Even if you are not too much into cave exploration, the natural formations in these caves will leave you speechless. Head to these caves in Andhra Pradesh for an eclectic adventure experience.
Kerala
Alleppey
Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country” for its beautiful natural treasure. One of the best places to experience the natural beauty of Kerala is Allepey and is among the must visit places in India. Stay in a houseboat and take a tour of the backwaters of the Alleppey for a romantic experience. While taking the cruise, do not forget to visit the quaint villages which are located by the backwaters. A trip to a local toddy shop completes this amazing experience in the lap of Mother Nature.
Munnar
Leaving out Munnar from the list of beautiful places in India is a cardinal sin. This hill station of Kerala is a nature lover’s delight. You are greeted with a vast expanse of tea and cardamom plantations here, rich forest cover and plenty of opportunities for trekking.
Athirapally
Located about 70 km from the city of Cochin is Athirapally in Kerala, a gorgeous location, like most of the rest of Kerala. The region is a fantastic riparian region in Kerala. A riparian region refers to the area between land and a river stream. Athirapally is known for its rich wildlife and boasts of some rare species of flora and fauna.
Wayanad
Wayanad is a stunning hill station located in the north-eastern part of gorgeous Kerala. The hill station is characterized by several tea and coffee plantations, making it ideal for a relaxing holiday.
Varkala Beach
For those who love to idle by the sea with a book in hand and nothing else to do, head to Varkala Beach in Kerala. It is a beautiful secluded beach where you can while away your time looking at the crashing waves.
Lakshadweep Islands
Agatti Island
It is not only mainland which has some beautiful places in India. If you are prepared to venture off from the mainland, you can expect some delightful experiences, such as those in Agatti Island in Lakshadweep Islands. The island is one of the rare few in Lakshadweep which are open to tourists. It is a coral island, and you can expect some really pristine natural beauty here and is among the must see places in India.
Andaman and Nicobar
Havelock Island
Havelock Island is one of the largest islands of Andaman and Nicobar, spread across an area of about 113.93 square kilometers. A trip to Havelock Island makes for a fantastic eco-tour, with its lush greenery and azure waters. There are quite a few fantastic diving and snorkeling sites in Havelock, which make it a great place for avid divers.
Punjab
Golden Temple
If you thought only nature constitutes beautiful places in India, the Golden Temple in Amritsar could make you eat your words. The upper floors of this religious landmark for the Sikhs are actually made of gold, which gives the temple its name.