What places would you recommend for Canadian tourists visiting India for the first time?

My husband and I are thinking about visiting India because recently I've been really fascinated by Indian culture, history, and cooking.

There are so many places I want to see (the whole country, really) but I'm worried that not everywhere would be a good idea for a first trip.

I'm just wondering what places you would recommend to someone who has never been to India (or any Asian countries) before to get a taste for what it's like?

I've done some research online and seen that Kerala is really easy for Western tourists. Are there any other places that would be good for first time visitors? I've heard that North India can be a little overwhelming for Westerners, so maybe we shouldn't do that on the first trip? What about West Bengal? My best friend is from Kolkata but I'm not sure what it would be like for Canadians to visit.

I'd like to take some cooking classes, go to museums, and see nature on the trip.

Thank you in advance!