Large magnificent vistas often unfold when one is on the road in India! For many travellers, these views define the destination for them forever. India has some spectacular sights with equally good vantage points from where to view them. Whether it’s the vast stretch of arid Rann of Kutch or the lush greenery of Silent Valley in Kerala, each special vista is perfect for capturing memories and pictures.

Here are our five favourite views in India and the viewing points to see them from.

1. Coonoor Staring with the neat rows of tea plants in the mossy hills of Nilgiris, Coonoor has two fabulous view points. One is the Dolphin Nose from where you can get a clear view of the Catherine Falls in Kotagiri. To avoid the crowds, arrive here early in the morning and watch the mist fade into the sunlight. The falls are fuller in the monsoons. The other great view to look out for is from the toy train from Coonoor to Mettupalayam. Deep ridges, waterfalls, tea gardens and thick forests pass slowly as the train chugs along for about 3 hours. This is the best way to see the untouched beauty of the Nilgiris.

2. The banks of Pangong Tso (lake) in Ladakh provide yet another vantage point to view the vast water body in front. Even though the entire road journey to and within Ladakh is mesmerizing, this spot is going to transport you somewhere else. Blue-green waters flanked by mountains make an enthralling backdrop.

3. Sandakfu is situated at the edge of Singalila National park in Darjeeling at a height of close to 12000 feet above sea level. Its sheer altitude makes it a great viewing spot. You can see the peaks of Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest from here. The best season to get clear views of these peaks isl between April to June. The weather is clear then with good chances of clear skies.

4. Head north of Almora in the lower Himalayan region, to hit one of the most beautiful destinations, Binsar. Capital of the Chand Kings, this place is now most popular for a 300 km panoramic view of peaks like Kedarnath Peak, Shivling, Trishul and the majestic Nanda Devi. All these are best viewed from a point called ‘Zero Point’.

5. Taj Mahal is beautiful from every angle but the best view is perhaps seen from the Agra Fort. Millions pour into Agra to be awed by the Taj Mahal, the illustrious creation by 17th century Mughal King, Shah Jahan. The Taj can be clearly seen from the Agra Fort, especially from the Musamman Burj. The intricate work on the panels of the windows makes for interesting frames to the white marvel.

Related articles and links of interest
The top 25 scenic train routes in India
The best places in India for architecture
The best places in India for traditional dance
10 stunning photos of Ladakh and Leh
Indian homestays in Agra,Coonoor and Ladakh

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.