Top 10 most beautiful countries in the world — here’s where India stands

What makes a country truly beautiful varies from one traveller to another. For some, it’s ancient temples and palaces; for others, it’s emerald rainforests, snow-covered summits, or modern architectural marvels. But when a blend of global perception, cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and sustainable practices comes together, a clearer ranking begins to emerge. To curate this list, Architectural Digest considered multiple data points, including the US News & World Report’s 2024 Best Countries ranking, which identifies the most scenic places in the world based on the perceptions of nearly 17,000 people globally. The top 10 countries from that ranking appear in this list. Countries with significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites—like Italy, which leads with 60—also ranked higher. Sustainability mattered too: destinations like Sweden, often called the greenest nation on the planet, made the list for their environmental stewardship. This blend of natural allure, architectural heritage, cultural identity, and sustainability shaped the selection of the world’s 30 most beautiful countries — with India ranking 29th. Here’s a look at the top 10 most beautiful countries featured in the global list and how India stands among them.

India Ranks 29th Among the World’s Most Beautiful Countries
India’s position in the global ranking is a reflection of its vast cultural, natural, and architectural heritage. The country’s architectural brilliance begins with Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City. Its signature structure, the Hawa Mahal, is a five-story marvel of pink sandstone featuring 953 intricately designed windows. And no conversation about India’s beauty can ignore the Taj Mahal in Agra — a masterpiece of love and one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Beyond its architectural treasures, India’s landscapes span every imaginable terrain:
– The towering Himalayas
– Kerala’s peaceful backwaters
– The sweeping Thar Desert
– Dense forests and rich artisanal traditions across the country
While India ranks 29 globally, few nations can rival its cultural depth and geographical variety. Let's take a look at the 10 Most Beautiful Countries in the World.

1. Greece — The World’s Most Scenic Destination
Greece tops the US News ranking for scenic beauty, thanks to its crystal-blue seas and 6,000 islands. While Santorini and Mykonos remain global favourites, travellers seeking tranquillity have embraced lesser-known gems like Ios, where 99% of the land is preserved in its natural state.

2. New Zealand — Adventure and Beauty in Every Corner
Ranked second for scenic beauty, New Zealand is synonymous with dramatic landscapes. Glowworm-lit caves in Waitomo, glacier treks on Fox Glacier, and bungee jumps over the Kawarau River make it a paradise for adventurous souls.

3. Italy — A Cultural and Architectural Powerhouse
With 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Italy has more than any other country. Ancient ruins like Rome’s Colosseum, Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, and cliffside villages in Cinque Terre confirm its timeless beauty—both architectural and natural.

4. Indonesia — A Tapestry of Islands and Traditions
Beyond Bali’s temples and beaches, Indonesia’s 17,000 islands offer endless wonders. Sumatra’s Lake Toba, Lombok’s pink sands, volcano trails, and jungle waterfalls showcase just how diverse the archipelago truly is.

5. Spain — Where History and Architecture Shine
Spain’s architectural landscape is unmatched. From Barcelona’s Sagrada Família to Granada’s Alhambra and Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, the country is a visual feast that effortlessly blends old and new.

6. Japan — A Balance of Old and New
Japan stands out for its ability to preserve historic beauty while championing futuristic design. Kyoto’s 17 UNESCO sites complement Tokyo’s cutting-edge architecture, making the country a harmonious blend of past and future.

7. Peru — Home to the Majestic Machu Picchu
Peru’s iconic Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Add the rainbow-hued Vinicunca Mountains, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon rainforest, and it’s easy to see why Peru captivates travellers.

8. Zambia — A Sanctuary of Waterfalls and Wildlife
Zambia’s biggest draw is Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall. The country protects nearly 30% of its land, ensuring that its wildlife — elephants, giraffes, and 800+ bird species — thrives for generations.

9. Australia — Land of National Parks
Home to over 500 national parks, Australia boasts landscapes unlike anywhere else. From the Aboriginal rock art of Kakadu National Park to the sacred monoliths of Uluru-Kata Tjuta, its natural splendour is truly unmatched.

10. Thailand — Rainforests, Reefs, and Wildlife
With 147 national parks, Thailand is a wonderland of marine and rainforest beauty. Khao Sok, one of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests, and the island-rich Ang Thong Marine Park make it a favourite among nature lovers.