Where to stay Glenburn Tea Estate is a 150-year-old plantation bungalow turned boutique hotel. You can birdwatch, swim in the river and organise tours of the tea estate.

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2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar are a collection of more than 800 islands off the Bay of Bengal towards Thailand and Myanmar. Cut off from the rest of the world, local ways of life have been preserved here and only 30 of the islands are open to tourists. These offer a spellbinding view into an ancient, wilder era with coral reefs untouched by human activity and mangrove forests teeming with butterflies, elephants and the occasional crocodile. The beaches are impressive, particularly Radhanagar on Havelock Island: a blonde swish of powdery sand fringed by rainforest.

Where to stay Taj Exotica Resort & Spa sits just off Radhanagar Beach. Its 50 villas are styled to look like huts of local tribespeople, but with uber-luxurious interiors.

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3. Kuno, Madhya Pradesh

Seven decades after being declared extinct in the country, cheetahs have returned to India. Their base? The Kuno National Park in the country’s northern stretches. Book onto a safari and even if you don’t spot the cheetahs there will be plenty to see among the 33 types of mammals, 206 species of birds, 33 kinds of reptiles and 10 species of amphibians that call this jungle home. Other top sightings include leopards, Indian wolves and bison. The park is littered with ancient forts and crumbling buildings which have been romantically reclaimed by the forest.

Where to stay The Palpur Fort is one of the closest accommodation options to the park. It regularly hosts bonfire nights under the stars.

4. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

The magical lure of the Taj Mahal makes Agra an essential stop on India’s Golden Triangle tourist circuit. But it’s by no means the only attraction — the massive 16th-century red sandstone Agra Fort and the stirring mausoleum of Mughal emperor Akbar are both worth a visit, as is Kinari Bazaar for everything from clothes and shoes to spices and marble curios. Don’t miss the city’s signature sweet petha (candied white pumpkin).

Where to stay Just 650m from the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas has arguably the best view in the city.

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5. Amritsar, Punjab

Pay your respects at the serene Golden Temple, the most important pilgrimage site in Sikhism then visit Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial garden and poignant reminder of India’s freedom struggle, part of which is also evocatively captured at the nearby Partition Museum. Later, head to Amritsar’s old-city bazaars to gorge on parathas and kulchas (assorted flatbreads) at one of the many dhabas and top it off with a tall glass of creamy lassi (a salted yoghurt drink).

Where to stay Built around a colonnaded mansion, Welcomhotel Amritsar blends old-world charm with sophisticated facilities.

6. Bangalore, Karnataka

One of the major cities in south India, what Bangalore lacks in big-ticket attractions it makes up for with an eclectic eating, drinking and shopping scene. Malls abound, as do craft breweries, restaurants and cafés, especially in cool districts such as Indiranagar and Koramangala. The “Garden City” also has plenty of green respite, be it Cubbon Park, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Lumbini Gardens and more.

Where to stay With 281 luxurious rooms and suites, the Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru is a sprawling new addition to the city’s skyline.

7. Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Despite its cosmopolitan garb, Chennai remains a traditional city dotted with multiple rainbow-coloured temples — Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most popular. Swing by the Government Museum to see a superb collection of South Indian bronze idols and then take a sunset promenade along Marina Beach, the world’s second longest urban beach. Don’t miss sampling bajji (vegetable fritters) from one of the shacks.

Where to stay The palatial ITC Grand Chola is home to Avartana, one of the best southern Indian restaurants in the country.

8. Jodhpur, Rajasthan

With its tangle of medieval streets lined with indigo houses, the “Blue City” of Jodhpur paints a pretty picture. Add the mighty Mehrangarh Fort presiding over it from a rocky hilltop and you get an idea of the past glory of the Rajputs. Don’t miss Umaid Bhawan Palace, part luxury hotel and part museum, and still occupied by descendants of the former Jodhpur royal family.

Where to stay A stately private home turned boutique hotel, the Rohet House is known for its bespoke experiences.

9. Kochi, Kerala

Sitting pretty on the Malabar Coast, Kochi (especially its historic old town Fort Kochi) is a delightful mishmash of Portuguese, Dutch, British Raj and indigenous influences. Stroll around and see the 450-year-old Paradesi Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace and the Instagram-worthy Chinese fishing nets. Time your visit to coincide with the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (usually held December-April) to get a taste of contemporary Asian art.

Where to stay Step back in time at Forte Kochi, a Portuguese-era mansion turned boutique hotel with 27 colonial-style rooms.

10. Calcutta, West Bengal

Calcutta may be one of the major metropolises in India but it seems to move at a slower pace. As the former capital of British India, it retains plenty of colonial-era architecture including the Victoria Memorial and St Paul’s Cathedral. The striking Howrah Bridge is a city icon and its busy markets like New Market and Mullick Ghat Flower Market are unmissable.

Where to stay The Corner Courtyard is housed in the mansion of a former zamindar (landowner) and has seven uniquely designed rooms with antique furnishing.

11. Leh, Ladakh

With jagged snow-capped peaks, azure lakes and colourful monasteries, Ladakh is one of the most spectacular regions in northern India. Its charming capital Leh is dotted with whitewashed houses and stupas, and is dominated by the 17th-century Leh Palace. Visiting a Buddhist monastery is a must-do — Shey, Thiksey, and Hemis are closest to Leh, and the latter hosts the colourful Hemis festival (usually in June or July).

Where to stay Wake up to views of the Stok Range at Ladakh Sarai, a luxury resort built in the traditional Ladakhi style and architecture.

12. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a picturesque hill station in north India surrounded by forests and majestic mountains with the River Beas flowing through it. Visit the 16th-century Hidimba Devi Temple and then saunter down Mall Road to shop for local handicrafts and curios. Manali is also a good base for many adventure activities such as trekking, rafting, paragliding and skiing.

Where to stay Book a cosy stay at Urvashi’s Retreat, which offers chalet-style rooms and traditional Himachali food.

13. Mumbai, Maharashtra

The most cosmopolitan city in India, Mumbai is home to heritage architecture such as the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus railway station, Banganga temple tank, Khotachiwadi heritage village and more. Most of the action revolves around the cultural and art precinct of Kala Ghoda and the cool neighbourhood of Bandra with its trendy bars and restaurants. Don’t miss a promenade along the iconic Marine Drive as you gaze upon the Arabian Sea.

Where to stay Book a room in the heritage wing of the Taj Mahal Palace, located right next to the Gateway of India.

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14. Delhi

India’s capital city Delhi is steeped in history. Mughal-era architecture — including the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid and Qutb Minar — rubs shoulders with colonial-era parliament buildings. From the chaos of Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place to the serenity of Lodhi Garden and Sunder Nursery, the multiple worlds of Delhi collide and coexist, held together by some of the best food you’ll find in India.

Where to stay A luxurious urban oasis with an outstanding spa, the Lodhi brings much-needed respite in the heart of Delhi.

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15. Panaji, Goa

Possibly the most popular destination in India, Goa is all about sun, sea, and sand. The Latin quarter of Fontainhas in Panaji (also known as Panjim), is a must visit, with plenty of Portuguese architecture, eclectic cafés, boutiques and grungy bars to explore. Don’t miss the glorious 16th-century Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the quirky Mario Gallery dedicated to one of India’s most beloved cartoonists, Mario de Miranda.

Where to stay The beachfront Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa has 142 terracotta-roofed suites and villas spread over 28 acres of landscaped gardens.

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16. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Often referred to as the “yoga capital of the world”, the spiritual city of Rishikesh on the River Ganges is dotted with numerous ashrams which offer yoga and meditation retreats. The nightly Ganga aarti (river worship), accompanied by beating drums, melodic chants, and hundreds of diyas (earthen lamps) floating down the river, is a sight to behold. For the more adventurous, there’s whitewater rafting and trekking in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Where to stay Relax at the Neemrana’s Glasshouse on the Ganges, which has an open-air yoga pavilion and the Neemrana Spa.

• Best yoga retreats in India

17. Porbandar, Gujarat

There’s no doubting the headline attraction at this northwestern port. In 1869, father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi was born here in a three-storey house, one which tourists and devotees can now visit. A swastika (a symbol of “wellbeing” in the ancient language of Sanskrit) supposedly marks the precise spot of his birth, while other rooms contain photos documenting Gandhi’s life. About 65 miles up the coast lies the ancient Hindu pilgrimage hub of Dwarka, home to the elaborately carved Dwarkadhish Temple, which houses a sacred idol of Lord Krishna. Closer still is the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, where leopards, blackbucks and other wildlife roam the hilly forests, though lions are more commonly found in nearby Gir National Park.

Where to stay Affordable and contemporary in style, the beachside Lords Inn is a dependable bet for a comfortable stay.

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18. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Lucknow was the scene of a renowned siege during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, in which the British defied rebels during two sustained offensives before eventually abandoning the city; the British Residency remains well preserved. Nowadays it is a genteel attractive city famed for its smoky Awadhi cuisine which includes kebabs, paya (lamb-trotter stew) and revadi (sesame brittle with ghee and sugar).

Where to stay The white-walled Saraca Hotel exudes a sense of sophistication and luxury, where guests can expect a touch of celebrity treatment.

19. Puducherry

A distinct French flavour persists in this former settlement and union territory, which was occupied until the 1960s. Also characterised by sumptuous beaches, “Pondy” (the old name is Pondicherry) includes a bevy of glorious Gallic-style villas and café-lined cobblestone streets; it all adds up to a quaint daydreamy atmosphere. Try and leave time for a scuba-diving trip out into the surrounding Bay of Bengal during your stay.

Where to stay Check into the seafront Palais de Mahe, with its banana-yellow walls and Indian-European fusion cuisine.

20. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

There’s nowhere like Varanasi. This is where deceased Hindus are brought to be cremated beside the sacred Ganges, following complex rituals and prayers. After cremation, their ashes are immersed in the holy river, believed to bring liberation (moksha). Around Dashashwamedh Ghat, magical evening aarti rituals are held to honour Lord Shiva and the universe. Sunrise boat cruises are a good option to escape the hurly-burly, as is peeking inside some of the 2,000 or so temples. With madcap traffic, full-on smells and touts aplenty, Varanasi isn’t always a delightful experience — but definitely one you’ll never forget.

Where to stay A restored riverside palace, the BrijRama Palace hotel lies nearer to the famous Dashashwamedh and Manikarnika ghats than its high-end rivals.

21. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

The honey-gold sandstone Jaisalmer Fort rises like a mirage from the desert sands, a 12th-century citadel with 99 bastions. Around 4,000 people reside within its walls and its narrow winding lanes are lined with elaborate Jain temples and havelis (mansions). Though picturesque, the Sam Sand Dunes are usually thronged with tourists on camel safaris.

Where to stay The majestic Suryagarh, in the heart of the Thar Desert, provides a truly royal experience within a sprawling fortress.

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22. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur is replete with royal palaces and historic forts, many of them in terracotta hues that have given it the moniker the “Pink City”. The City Palace and Hawa Mahal are must-sees, as is Amber Fort on the outskirts of the city. Just 120 miles away from Jaipur is Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places for a tiger safari in India.

Where to stay In the bustling jewellers’ bazaar, the Johri is a 19th-century merchant’s haveli restored into a striking boutique hotel.

23. The backwaters, Kerala

An hour along the Malabar Coast from Kochi by train, Alappuzha (which everyone still calls Alleppey, its old British name) is the place from which most cruises set off onto Kerala’s backwaters: a maze of increasingly narrow rural canals bursting with birdlife and local colour. The best way to explore is by floating along and staying overnight in houseboats, stopping for refreshment at toddy shops or to photograph the prettiest paddy fields. Best of all, charter a smaller craft for several days so you can escape the main hordes.

Where to stay Ayana Houseboats’ two-person vessel makes stops upon request and serves zesty Keralan cuisine.

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Additional reporting by Richard Mellor, Imogen Lepere and Marianna Hunt