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November is perhaps one of the best times of the year to travel to any destination in India as the weather is calm and pleasant during this period and nature’s beauty is at its best. If you are planning a leisure trip in this month, get ready to be spoilt for choices as picking from so many fantastic destinations can be a tough call. To help you make the decision, we have prepared a list of 10 scenic places to visit in India in November. You can make the call depending on whether you want to relax, unwind and spend some quality time with family or indulge in some exciting adventure activities. Here are the best places in India to visit in November:
1. Sanchi
Located in Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi is one of the most revered sites for the followers of Buddhism. This small town is home to the famous Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site believed to be among the oldest stone structures in the world. Besides this, there are many other stupas and monasteries in this town, which were built by the great Emperor Ashoka and subsequent rulers of the region. Not just Buddhist followers but also tourists in large numbers throng here every year to explore this quaint village.
Places to visit in Sanchi: Sanchi Stupa, Udaigiri Caves, Chetiyagiri Buddhist Temple, Sanchi Archaeological Museum, and Gupta Temple
Things to do in Sanchi: Go on an exploration tour to Udaigiri Caves, get an insight into the town’s history and culture at Sanchi Archaeological Museum and visit the many Buddhist stupas and temples
2. Varanasi
Another important pilgrimage center for the Hindus, Varanasi – also known as Benaras – is among the oldest cities in the world. Home to many revered temples and more than 100 ghats, this holy city receives hundreds of devotees and tourists from across the country on a daily basis. Some come here to take a holy dip in the Ganga river and others to witness the grandeur of Hinduism and learn about its mythological roots. A trip to Varanasi in November can be a good experience as the city enjoys cool and pleasant weather.
Places to visit in Varanasi: Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Panchganga Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Man Mandir Observatory, and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Things to do in Varanasi: Witness the evening aarti at Dasawamedh Ghat, take a holy dip in the Ganga, take a boat ride on the river, visit the Ramnagar Fort and Museum and shop at the local markets to purchase local handicrafts and Benarasi sarees
3. Sunderbans
One of the largest forest areas across the world, Sunderbans is located on the delta of Brahmaputra, Ganga and Meghna rivers. The area has a complex network of mangrove forests, mudflats and tidal waterways and is known for its rich fauna, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, freshwater crocodiles, Indian python and over 260 species of birds. Exploring the Sunderbans National Park and Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary should be on top of your list of things to do in Sunderbans. Besides, you can take local village tours and enjoy fascinating views of the area from the watchtowers.
Places to visit in Sunderbans: Sunderbans National Park, Kanak, Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower, Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, Halliday Island, and Netidhopani
Things to do in Sunderbans: Spot the mighty Royal Bengal Tiger at the national park, indulge in birdwatching at Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, take a tour of the local villages and witness crocodiles at Bhagabatpur
4. Jammu
Jammu, the winter capital of the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, lies on the banks of the Tawi River. Home to many grand palaces, forts, and temples, the city is encompassed by lush green forests and majestic mountains and makes for a pretty sight. Often referred to as the ‘City of Temples’, Jammu is home to some revered Hindu shrines including Raghunath Temple, Ranbireshwar Temple, Peer Kho Cave Temple, and Bave Wali Mata Temple. It also serves as the starting point for the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi Temple.
Places to visit in Jammu: Raghunath Temple, Dogra Art Museum, Surinsar Lake, Bahu Fort, Mansar Lake, Mubarak Mandi Palace, Shivkhori, Amar Mahal Museum, and Peer Baba Dargah
Things to do in Jammu: Go on a pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, Ski at Patnitop, savor lip-smacking Jammu dishes, go for a boat ride at Mansar Lake and explore Bhimgarh Fort
5. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of the most visited tourist destinations in India, with travelers flocking here from far and wide. What draws people to this serene archipelago is its undulated natural beauty. With 572 small and big isles, Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an ideal place for sightseeing as well as adventure sports. It is also home to one of the important historical sites of India’s struggle for independence – Cellular Jail. A short vacation in the amazing environs of these islands will definitely get you relaxed and happy!
Places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Cellular Jail, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Ross Island, Neil Island, Baratang Island, and Elephant Beach
Things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Witness the wonderful light and sound show at Cellular Jail, indulge in exciting water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, enjoy a glass bottom boat tour and go for a birdwatching experience at Chidiya Tapu
6. Shillong
The picturesque hill station of Shillong in Meghalaya is known for its abundant natural beauty and beautiful landscape featuring scenic waterfalls, azure lakes, and verdant rolling hills. A vacation in this city, renowned as the ‘Scotland of the East’, in the month of November will certainly become one of your most memorable outings with friends or family. When you come here, do catch the mesmerizing view of the city’s landscape from the top of Shillong Peak and when you visit Umiam Lake, a boat ride is a must!
Places to visit in Shillong: Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Air Force Museum, Laitlum Canyons, Ward’s Lake, Sohpetbneng Peak, Don Bosco Museum, and Phan Nonglait Park
Things to do in Shillong: Enjoy a boat ride at Umiam Lake, sample local delicacies, camp at Khasi Hills, go on David Scott trail to explore the beauty of the city, witness the view of the enchanting Elephant Falls and shop at Bara Bazaar
7. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a beautiful city in Rajasthan and is also popularly known as the ‘Golden City’, thanks to its enormous sand dunes and royal forts and castles. Jaisalmer is situated in the heart of the Thar Desert and gets very hot and uncomfortable during summer. November is the best time to revel in the beauty of the desert and explore the majestic landmarks in the area.
Places to visit in Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer Fort, Desert National Park, Gadisar Lake, Kuldhara Village, Lodhruva Jain Temple, Battle of Longewala, Patwon Ji Ki Haveli, and Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum
Things to do in Jaisalmer: Take a camel ride and explore the sandy desert like a royalty. Camp overnight in the desert under the starry sky with nothing, but sand around you. Explore the Jaisalmer Fort and get to know its history. Shop around the city and buy colourful handicrafts, Havelis, camel leather products, and rugs and shawls.
8. Goa
If there is one place in the country that is universally liked, it is Goa! The sandy beaches and comfortable shacks in this hip place leave visitors happy and sated. Goa does get hot during summers and most of the shacks and adventure activities remain closed in monsoon. Winters, especially November and December are the best months to enjoy the fun and flare of this state. The place gets all decked up for Christmas and New Year and parties happen around all the beaches.
Places to visit in Goa: Beaches like Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Butterfly, and Arambol, Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, Dudhsagar Falls, Anjuna flea market, Basilica of Bom Jesus Church
Things to do in Goa: Get your dose of adrenaline rush with water sports activities like scuba diving, parasailing, surfing, and snorkelling. Relax at a beach shack, sip your favourite drink, and gorge on fresh seafood. Try your luck in the ship casinos. Take a cruise around the Goan backwaters. Shop until you drop in the flea markets for colourful accessories, fun clothes, and handicrafts.
9. Pondicherry
Pondicherry is a city close to Tamil Nadu and is lined by the beautiful southeast coastline. Pondicherry was colonised by the French and as a result, most buildings are inspired by French architecture. You will absolutely love the colourful streets lined with trees and the beaches and fishing villages that occupy the city. Pondicherry is also known for its beach resorts, cheap alcohol, and great food. Since summer gets very hot here, November is a perfect time to travel to this beautiful city.
Places to visit in Pondicherry: Shri Aurobindo Ghosh Ashram, Pondicherry Beach, Paradise Beach, Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus, Auroville, Rock Beach, Old Lighthouse, Pondicherry Museum
Things to do in Pondicherry: Visit Auroville to enjoy seeing people of international communities living together in harmony. Munch on roasted peanuts and sit and watch the beautiful rock beach in action. Rent a bicycle and roam the streets of Pondicherry. Take a stroll at the Yanam Beach.
10. Kodaikanal
Located in the hills of the Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu, this cool and pleasant hill station is an amazing place to visit right after the monsoon. This picturesque location is filled with deep valleys, quaint little waterfalls, lakes, and luscious hills. Kodaikanal remains among the most popular tourist destinations for South Indians. Mouth-watering food, great climate, and lovely locals make this a perfect place to unwind in.
Places to visit in Kodaikanal: Kodai Lake, Green Valley View, Thalaiyar Falls, Bear Shola falls, Coakers Walk, Dolphin’s Nose (viewpoint), Bryant Park
Things to do in Kodaikanal: Take an early morning stroll in the Coakers Walk. Take a relaxing boat ride in the Kodai Lake and let go of your day’s worries. Sip a hot glass of tea and gaze at the never-ending mountain ranges. Enjoy scrumptious South Indian breakfast like idli, masala dosa, and vada from small local eateries.
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