Indian States: Discover the Culture, Food, and Heritage Across India's Regions

When you think of Indian states, the 28 distinct regions that make up the diverse nation of India, each with its own language, cuisine, and traditions. Also known as provinces, they shape everything from how you eat breakfast to how you celebrate festivals. One state might have snow-capped peaks and ancient monasteries, while another offers sun-drenched beaches and centuries-old temple rituals. There’s no single India—just a collection of vibrant, independent worlds stitched together by history.

Take Uttar Pradesh, the state with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, including the Taj Mahal and the forts of Agra. It’s not just about monuments—it’s about the rhythm of life around them. Meanwhile, Maharashtra, home to eight UNESCO sites like the Ajanta Caves and Elephanta Island. leads in cultural density, while Goa, a former Portuguese colony turned beach paradise. feels like another country entirely. Then there’s Tamil Nadu, where temple festivals draw millions and South Indian food—spicy, rice-based, and aromatic—is a daily ritual. You can’t talk about Indian states without talking about food. North Indian food, heavy on dairy and wheat, is a world away from the coconut, tamarind, and rice staples of the south. One isn’t better—it’s just different, shaped by climate, soil, and centuries of local history.

And safety? Not every state is the same. Indore, in Madhya Pradesh, ranks as India’s safest city for tourists in 2025, with low crime and strong infrastructure. Meanwhile, adventure seekers head to Rishikesh, in Uttarakhand, known as the yoga capital and the top spot for whitewater rafting. You’ll find skydiving in Goa, trekking in Himachal, and spiritual retreats in Varanasi—all tucked inside different states. This isn’t just travel. It’s a journey through dozens of mini-nations, each with its own heartbeat.

What you’ll find below are real stories from real places—the beaches you can actually swim at, the temples that draw crowds by the millions, the food that locals swear by, and the states that surprise even seasoned travelers. No fluff. Just what matters when you’re planning your next trip across India.