Shabby surroundings and roads can put off anyone and visitors are bound to take home negative impressions of the place. A dirty city can be uninviting and hence a huge turn-off for tourism. Imagine you are visiting an iconic place, but to reach the place you pass by streets laden with foul-smelling garbage. After the experience, would you encourage others to plan for that same place? Probably not! Therefore, cleanliness is always a prime matter of concern for tourism.
Some Indian cities have succeeded in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene across the districts and towns. Recently, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MOHUA) has announced the Swachh Survekshan awards for 2021. Here is the list of the top 10 cleanest cities of India.
1. Indore
Indore in Madhya Pradesh has been winning this title for over five years, ever since this survey started! Indore is not only India's cleanest city, but it also has a plethora of fun-filled activities to enjoy. You may learn about Indore's rich history by visiting the exquisite Rajwada Palace of the Holkar dynasty. You can also check out Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary and encounter nature like never before by exploring the amazing trek trail that runs through the sanctuary.
2. Surat
Surat has the reputation of being India's second cleanest city. This commercial metropolis, which is known for textiles and diamonds, has rapidly grown over the years. You can check out New Textile Market for authentic zari work and an amazing assortment of sarees, fabrics, and embroidered clothes. Surat now attracts local and international tourists to visit its popular attractions such as Ambaji Temple, Sardar Patel Museum, Dutch Garden, Dumas Beach, Swaminarayan Temple, Sarthana Nature Park, and Vansda National Park.
3. Vijayawada
The city in Andhra Pradesh is on the third spot as the cleanest city in India in 2021. The city jumped from sixth place in 2020 to third place this year in the cities with more than 10 lakh population categories. Vijayawada is home to the Kanaka Durga Temple. According to legend, Arjuna from the Mahabharata built the temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The city is also known for the Undavalli Caves, which date from the 7th century. Jain and Buddhist monks used these caverns as resting places.
4. Navi Mumbai
This planned city of Maharashtra is on the fourth spot for being the cleanest in the country. Hence, if you are planning a walking tour or leisure trip to a clean and lively destination in India, Navi Mumbai would be a perfect pick. To experience the joy of nature, you can visit the Pandavkada Falls, located in Kharghar, which offer picturesque landscapes that will charm you. Another great place to explore is Karnala Bird Sanctuary. Home to more than 200 bird species, this is an ideal spot for birdwatching and hiking.
5. Pune
One of the finest cities in the state of Maharashtra, Pune is the fifth cleanest city in the country. Surrounded by many mesmerizing attractions, the city of Pune is no less attracted to many coming from outside, sometimes from even as close to Mumbai to enjoy their weekends. Shaniwar Wada Palace, Aga Khan Palace, Lal Mahal, Parvati Hill temple, etc., are a few of the must-visit places around Pune.
6. Raipur
Raipur has been ranked as India's 6th cleanest city. Raipur, a growing industrial powerhouse, is mostly a business centre, but there are plenty of things to do and see in this Chhattisgarh city. Raipur comes with a rich heritage and cultural history, which has seen many rulers as the power behind it. The major tourist attractions in Raipur include museums, natural parks, lakes, and places of religious importance.
7. Bhopal
Through the constant hard work of Bhopal’s municipal corporation and public support, the city has maintained its spot in the cleanest Indian cities list. Also known as the City of Lakes, Bhopal includes a popular tourist hub. Whether you want to experience the thrill of adventure or want to catch glimpses of the bygone era, Bhopal can delight you with its perfect blend and modernity and history. Moti Masjid, Upper Lake, Sanchi Stupa, Shaukat Mahal, Bhimbetka Caves, Van Vihar National Park, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Lower Lake are a few such places to visit while you are in Bhopal.
8. Vadodara
Located on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, Vadodara (previously known as Baroda) has been ranked as the 8th cleanest city in India. The city is home to some of the most captivating architectural excellence. Whether you are an artist, a history buff, or a curious traveler, Vadodara will impress you with its vast array of attractions including grand monuments, museums, palaces, gardens, temples, markets, and lots more.
9. Visakhapatnam
Another major city in Andhra Pradesh made it to the top 10 list of cleanest Indian cities with a population of more than 10 lakh category. Known as the ‘Jewel of the East Coast’, Visakhapatnam (or ‘Vizag’) is a tourist’s paradise. If you are looking for a destination that would keep your spirits soaring with natural beauties and manmade wonders, this city will be the right place.
10. Ahmedabad
Known as the Manchester of India, this clean and thriving city is on the list of the cleanest cities in India due to the effective waste segregation and disposal. You can witness architectural wonders like the Teen Darwaza and Jhulta Minar, pray at Swaminarayan Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Vaishno Devi Temple, and relax at Kankaria Lake and AUDA Garden. Sabarmati Ashram, the residence of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi, is a major attraction here.
Among the smaller cities with a population between 1-10 lakh, New Delhi ranked first, followed by Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. Also, Ahmedabad Cantonment was adjudged Cleanest Cantonment, followed by Meerut Cantonment and Delhi Cantonment. Among the states, Maharashtra bagged a total of 92 awards, the highest by any state, followed by Chhattisgarh with 67 awards.
So, it is obvious that the above-mentioned cities will leave a good impression while you visit those places.
Have you been to any of these clean cities? If yes, share your experience with us in the comments. Or write about it here on Tripoto and earn Tripoto Credits!