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Top Places to Visit in China in 2026 That Indians Love!

By Sanjay Shah on Jan 2, 2026
Themes:  Travel Updates  | Category: Places To Visit | Country:  China

Summary:
Discover the top places to visit in China in 2026 that Indians want to visit. From the Terracotta Army to the Great Wall to panda sanctuaries and scenic river cruises. This blog explains why Indians are eager to travel to China in 2026, and gives clear, practical insights for planning a smooth, memorable China tour.

China is officially back on the travel map, and it is bigger, bolder, and more accessible than ever. From the ancient Great Wall to futuristic cities like Shanghai, famous tourist attractions in China offer experiences you simply will not find anywhere else. If you have been scrolling through Instagram reels of futuristic cities and ancient temples and are confused whether you should go, the answer is a resounding yes.

In 2026, better connectivity, smoother group travel, and a strong interest in history and nature are pushing China back on Indian travel wish lists. But where do you start in a country this massive? 

Whether you are a budget traveller or a family seeking China tour packages, this blog covers everything you need to know about best places to visit in China.

Why Are Indian Travellers Choosing China in 2026?

China Places

Indians are flocking to China for its perfect mix of history, modernity, and value for money.

Simpler visas, direct flights from India, and tour packages at affordable prices have made travel to China far more accessible than before. The country also ticks every box – ancient temples, futuristic skylines, stunning natural landscapes, and some of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

Going to China used to be a hassle, but in 2026, it is finally easy.

  • Better Connectivity: Airlines have increased flight frequencies from Delhi and Mumbai to major Chinese hubs like Guangzhou and Shanghai.
  • Simplified Visas: While Indian citizens still need a visa, the process has become more streamlined with online applications and dedicated service centres that offer faster processing times (usually around 7–10 days).
  • Value for Rupee: Compared to Europe or the UK, your Indian Rupee goes much further here. A luxury hotel in Shanghai often costs less than a standard room in London.

Is China Safe and Comfortable for First-Time Indian Travellers?

Yes, China is one of the safest countries globally with low crime rates, and modern apps have solved the language and food barriers.

Safety is usually the first concern for first-timers, and we get it. The good news? China is one of the safest countries in Asia for tourists. Cities are clean, public transport is reliable, and tourist areas are well-policed. 

First-time Indian travellers often choose our China group tour packages to avoid the stress of planning routes, booking tickets, and managing local arrangements.

What Are the Best Places to Visit in China for First-Time Indian Tourists?

Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, and Chengdu form the most popular places to visit in China.

If you are exploring China for the first time, you will want to focus on the classics. 

  • Beijing – The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square
  • Shanghai – The Bund, Yu Garden, modern skyline
  • Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors, ancient city walls
  • Guilin & Yangshuo – Li River cruise, karst mountains
  • Chengdu – Giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine, relaxed vibe

These are the places to visit in China that offer maximum impact with minimum hassle. They balance history, modern life, and natural beauty. We include most of these spots in our China tour packages to make sure first-time travellers get a truly wholesome experience.

Beijing: The First Stop on Every China Trip

Beijing

Beijing is usually your first stop in every trip to China, since all the famous tourist attractions in China are right there – the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven.

Visiting this capital city feels like stepping into a history book. The city blends ancient temples and royal palaces with modern roads and markets. The city attracts travellers from across the world for its grand imperial landmarks. 

Top Things to do in Beijing

  • In the heart of the city, you will find the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, where you can watch locals practice Tai Chi.
  • You cannot leave without visiting the Great Wall, and in 2026, many sections now offer night tours with beautiful lights.
  • Do not miss the Summer Palace and Tiananmen Square.
  • Between the big sights, take a rickshaw through the Hutongs (narrow old alleys) for some authentic street food.

Beijing is not just about the past. It is also full of great shopping, fun nightlife, and amazing local food. 

Shanghai: The City of the Future

Shanghai

Shanghai offers a New York meets Mumbai vibe with its stunning skyline, shopping districts, and massive Disney resort.

If Beijing is the history book, Shanghai is the sci-fi movie. It is all about the energy here! With its wide range of attractions, Shanghai stands out as one of the top tourist destinations in China.

It is known for its skyline, shopping streets, and river views along the Bund. You will see tall towers, colonial buildings, and lively neighbourhoods all in one place.

Top Things to do in Shanghai

  • The best way to start exploring Shanghai is a walk along The Bund. Here you will see colonial-era buildings on one side and glowing skyscrapers on the other.
  • 2026 is also a great year to visit Shanghai Disneyland, which recently added the world’s first Zootopia land!
  • Nanjing Road is perfect for buying electronics and fashion.
  • For the best views, visit the Shanghai Tower – one of the tallest in the world.
  • Visit Yu Garden to experience traditional Chinese design and calm ponds in the heart of the city.

Indians especially love Shanghai because it feels international, English is more common, and there are plenty of Indian restaurants in the city.

Xi’an: The Ancient Capital

Xi'an

Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers have been standing guard for 2,000 years.

Top Things to do in Xi’an

  • Rent a bike and ride along the top of the Ancient City Wall. It is a unique way to see the town at sunset.
  • Explore the Muslim Quarter, which is a food lover’s paradise. Try local snacks like Chinese burger, hand-pulled noodles, and persimmon cakes. The quarter has a strong Central Asian influence, and many vendors are Muslim, so, halal food is easy to find.
  • Do not miss the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a 7th-century Buddhist temple with stunning evening fountain shows.

For Indians visiting China for the first time, Xi’an feels more like a learning experience than just sightseeing. It is one of the most famous places to visit in China.

Guilin & Yangshuo: the Most Scenic Tourist Spots in China

Guilin

Guilin and Yangshuo are known for postcard-like landscapes and peaceful river views.

Top Things to do in Guilin & Yangshuo

  • Enjoy a Li River Cruise. It is a 4-hour boat ride past the Limestone Mountains. This boat ride is peaceful and incredibly photogenic.
  • Once you are in Yangshuo, rent an e-bike to cruise through rice paddies or try bamboo rafting on the quiet Yulong River. Slow down, breathe the fresh air, and just enjoy the scenery.
  • Visit Moon Hill, catch the famous Impression Liu Sanjie light show on the river, or just relax in a riverside café.

This area is perfect for photographers, couples, and anyone who wants to slow down and soak in natural beauty.

Chengdu: The Panda capital of the world.

Chengdu

Chengdu is the home of Giant Pandas and offers a laid-back vibe, spicy Sichuan food, and authentic Chinese culture.

Top Things to do in Chengdu.

  • A visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must, especially for families and first-time travellers. Go early in the morning when they are most active.
  • Chengdu is the capital of spicy food (Sichuan style). It is spicy, oily, and flavourful – quite similar to Indian spice levels.
  • Explore the Leshan Giant Buddha – a huge stone statue carved into a riverside cliff which is the tallest of its kind in the world. This UNESCO site took nearly 90 years to build and was created to bring calm to the once-wild rivers around it.

Chengdu has a slower, more relaxed vibe, making it a comfortable place to unwind and enjoy everyday Chinese life.

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Final Thoughts

These tourists’ spots in China are perfect for Indian travellers because they check all the boxes: amazing history, beautiful views, total comfort, and great prices. China basically gives you the full experience – ancient sites, futuristic cities, and stunning nature. All without breaking the bank. It really is the ultimate all-in-one trip!

China in 2026 is an experience of a lifetime. It is cleaner, faster, and more welcoming than you imagine. Pick a well-planned itinerary, travel at an easy pace, and focus on places that you will truly enjoy. Stop dreaming and start booking your hassle-free trip to China today with Flamingo Travels.

FAQs on Trip to China from India

What is the best time to visit China from India?

The best time to visit China from India is April to May and September to October, when the weather is pleasant, and sightseeing is comfortable. These months avoid extreme heat, cold, and peak holiday crowds, making travel easier and more enjoyable.

Is China safe for first-time Indian travellers?

China is statistically one of the safest countries in the world, with very low rates of street crime. However, beware of common tourist scams in popular areas.

Major tourist cities are well-policed, public transport is reliable, and crime rates in tourist areas are low. Just follow basic travel precautions, like anywhere else.

Do Indians need a visa to visit China in 2026?

Yes, all Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to mainland China. There is no visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for Indians.

The most common is the L Visa (tourist visa), which costs approximately ₹2,900 for a single entry and takes 4-5 working days to process through the China Visa Application Centre (CVAC). However, check the current status with our China Visa experts.

Can we go directly to China from India?

Yes. Indian travellers can fly directly from India to mainland China on select routes, mainly to cities like Beijing and Shanghai. China Eastern Airlines, Air India, and Indigo fly directly from India to China.

However, check the current status with our destination experts.

How many days are enough in China?

For first-time Indian travellers, 7 to 10 days are enough to comfortably see major highlights like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. If you add scenic places like Guilin or Chengdu, 10 to 12 days feels more relaxed and enjoyable.

About Author

Sanjay Shah
Sanjay Shah

Hello Everyone! Being a Director of Flamingo Travels Pvt. LTD we believe in converting the Travel Imaginations Of our Tourists Into Reality! We Started Flaming Transworld in the year 1996 as a small ticketing agency with a team of three to be one of the most trusted brands in the tourism industry, this journey of the last 23 years has been full of ups and downs and tremendous hard work by our team. This transformation would not have been possible without the relentless trust and consistent support of our customers. As of now we have become the pioneers of the Tourism Industry in India and are committed to the goal of becoming “The Largest Tour Operator in the World”.

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