Lonely Planet has unveiled its Best in Travel 2027 list, and two Indian experiences have made the cut. Gujarat has been named among the 25 destinations to visit, while the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been selected as one of the 25 travel experiences to try. Here are two cities in India that made to the list. Read on to know more.
2 Indian Destinations That Made It To The Lonely Planet List
According to reports by Firstpost, the annual list features 50 recommendations selected by Lonely Planet’s global travel experts. The two Indian entries offer very different ways to explore the country. Gujarat brings together wildlife, history, food, crafts and dramatic landscapes, while the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway offers a slower journey through the hills aboard its iconic Toy Train. If you are planning to explore in 2027, here is what you can add to your itinerary.
Gujarat Made It To The Lonely Planet List
Gujarat offers everything from salt deserts and wildlife reserves to historic cities and archaeological sites.
Rann of Kachchh
- Walk across the vast white salt desert, especially during the cooler months.
- Visit during the Rann Utsav for local crafts, music, dance and cultural performances.
- Explore nearby villages known for traditional embroidery, textiles and handicrafts.
Also Read: Cab Driver Argues Darjeeling Toy Train Was On ‘Wrong Side’ After Video Captures Collision
Gir National Park
- Take a safari through the forest in search of Asiatic lions.
- Explore the surrounding Gir landscape, which is also home to several other species of wildlife.
- Plan an early-morning or evening safari for a chance to explore the forest in cooler conditions.
Ahmedabad
- Explore the historic old city and its traditional architecture.
- Visit the Sabarmati Ashram and other heritage landmarks.
- Spend time discovering Gujarat’s textile and craft traditions.
- Sample the city’s famous vegetarian food.
Dholavira
- Explore the ancient Harappan archaeological site.
- See the remains of the settlement, including its sophisticated water-management systems.
- Combine the visit with a wider Kutch itinerary.
Champaner-Pavagadh
- Explore the UNESCO-listed archaeological park.
- Visit its temples, mosques, fortifications and historic structures.
- Take the ropeway or trek towards Pavagadh Hill for views of the surrounding landscape.
What To Eat In Gujarat
A Gujarat trip is incomplete without exploring its food culture.
- Dhokla: A popular steamed snack made from fermented batter.
- Khandvi: Soft, rolled gram-flour snacks usually served with tempering and garnishes.
- Thepla: Thin, spiced flatbreads commonly made with wheat flour and fenugreek.
- Fafda-Jalebi: A classic combination of crispy savoury fafda and sweet jalebi.
- Gujarati Thali: Try a traditional spread featuring rotli, dal, kadhi, vegetables, farsan, rice and sweets.
- Kutchhi Dabeli: A spicy-sweet potato-filled bun that originated in the Kutch region.
Darjeeling Is Another Place On The Lonely Planet List
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the Toy Train, offers a completely different travel experience. The historic railway winds through the hills of West Bengal, connecting Darjeeling with New Jalpaiguri and passing through mountain landscapes and small hill settlements.
Where To Go
- Darjeeling: Spend time around Mall Road, visit Tiger Hill for sunrise and explore the town’s colonial-era character.
- Ghum: Stop at Ghum, one of the highest railway stations in India, and visit the nearby Ghum Monastery.
- Batasia Loop: Watch the Toy Train negotiate the famous spiral loop while taking in views of the surrounding hills and Kanchenjunga on clear days.
- Kurseong: Explore this quieter hill town, known for tea gardens and mountain views.
What To Eat In Darjeeling
- Momos: Try steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat.
- Thukpa: A warm noodle soup that is particularly popular in the hill region.
- Darjeeling Tea: Visit a tea estate or local tea room to sample the region’s famous brew.
- Aloo Dum: A spicy potato preparation often paired with local bread or momos.
- Tibetan-inspired food: Explore local eateries for noodle dishes, dumplings and other Himalayan flavours.
Also Read: This Wood And Stone Cabin Near Darjeeling Can Be Booked At Just ₹1,028 Per Night
Whether you choose the landscapes and food trails of Gujarat or the slow journey of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, both picks offer a chance to explore a different side of India in 2027.
Cover Image Courtesy: Pexels/ Hitesh Patel
FAQs
What is Gujarat famous for?
Gujarat is famous for being the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, housing the world's only wild population of Asiatic lions, and featuring iconic landmarks like the Statue of Unity.