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In today's world, everybody needs a distraction, a distraction from the exceptionally mundane and monotonous routine of their life. We convince ourselves to take a trip, as it is the answer to almost all our problems nowadays.
We usually make several intricate plans to visit all the famous places across the globe hoping that it would provide us with that dose of refreshment and fun. Although that is not wrong, we fail to realize that several underrated travel destinations in our country are off the mainstream map.
It's high time we explore and rediscover the beauty of these places and give them the chance they deserve. Let us look past the charm of these cosmopolitan cities and experience the most beautiful gems and untapped natural beauty.
Must Visit Hidden Gems in India
Here are some of the hidden gems in India, and a visit to them is an absolute must if you are a traveler who wishes to visit and explore the globe.
1. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
The Ziro Valley, a habitation to the Apatani tribe, is a quaint old town in Arunachal Pradesh. This place is an enthralling holiday destination that displays the pristine natural beauty one hopes to see. The valley is also quite famous for its pine hills and rice fields.
The most interesting fact is that the weather is pleasant perennially making it more convenient for travelers to visit the valley at any time of the year. The Ziro Valley is an embodiment of scenic beauty which immerses the visitors in nature's lap. This hidden gem in India is the perfect travel destination for those who love photography, sketching, and many more.
2. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad is the ultimate destination if you want to escape the scorching sun, and enjoy the beauty of untouched woods, misty mountains, and long-spread plantations.
Wayanad is considered to be the spice garden of India with vast orchards of various spices like cardamom, black pepper, star anise, fenugreek, black cumin, and more. These orchards add to the beauty of the place, and in addition to this, we can also find coffee and other plantations. Wayanad is also blessed with numerous wildlife sanctuaries, reserves, and national parks that protect the wildlife of the forest.
Wayanad is a perfect place to visit for adventurous activities like hiking, trekking, rock climbing, mountaineering, etc. Besides, the most prestigious thing about Wayanad is that it has India’s largest earth dam and Asia’s second-largest earth dam, Banasura Sagar Dam.
Wayanad, a hidden gem in India, is also successful in giving visitors a touch of sanity and divineness with amazing monuments like the Ancient Jain temple, Thirunelli temple, etc.
3. Yousmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Kashmir is an enchanting tourist spot with pristine natural beauty. In this heaven on earth, one of the most mesmerizing locations is, the gorgeous Yousmarg, a pretty little hill station in the Budgam district of Kashmir.
This is surrounded by serene Himalayan ranges and meadows of pine and fir. It is quite a difficult task to resist falling in love with this extremely beautiful place which is located so close to Srinagar.
Yousmarg is an offbeat destination that must be on every traveler’s list. The place is renowned for some of the highest peaks in the Pir Panjal Mountain Range, such as Sunset Peak and Tattakutti. Apart from this, Yousmarg also has the most attractive tourist sites such as Doodh Ganga, Pakherpora Shrine, Nilnag lake, Sang-e-Safed, Tosa Maidan, and Charari Sharief.
4. Chaukori, Uttarakhand
Chaukori is one of the few places in Kumaon with the green lushness of tea gardens. As the name suggests it's dented within the Himalayan heartland like a bowl. It is a faultless destination where the entire land is bestowed with natural abundance, fruit orchards, and forests of Pines, Oaks, and Rhododendrons.
Nobody should miss out on the most splendid experience of witnessing the breathtaking sunrise and sunset in Chaukori. This place also has the most delicious local food with the perfect ambiance of the cuisines.
To build your own unique experience in these unexplored places, start crafting your travel experience here.
5. Glacier Point, Kutla, Himachal Pradesh
The glacier point is a clear meadow from where you can see a mammoth glacier in front of you that will make you feel like the snow-clad mountain is just a fingertip away from you. The sound of the river gushing with such an amazing view will make you stay there and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
PS:- You'll always find a dog helping you find the way towards the trek.
6. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
Valparai is a hill station located in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. The hill is a sheltered land of tall grass and houses elephants, boars, cheetahs, and other wild animals.
Valparai is an obscure yet tranquil hill station in the Anamalai Hills and is considered a hidden gem in South India. Its captivating combination of grassy knolls, clean air, and picturesque sights entice tourists from all over the country which also renders it one of the most sought-after destinations in the southern region of the Western Ghats.
In comparison to destinations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg, etc the Valparai is less crowded and is truly the seventh heaven. Propelled by an economy that comprises largely coffee and tea estates, this idyllic hill station also flourishes because of its thriving tourism industry. Moreover, it also has a rich history and beautiful monuments that were constructed years ago.
7. Corjuem Fort, Goa
Also known as Khorjuem fort, it is a smaller and secluded fort of Goa which is situated in the Aldona village near the Mapusa river. Like other forts of Goa, it is made up of laterite stones that are easily available in Goa. The fort is situated atop the hill square foundation and it provides some great countryside views.
The fort was originally built by the Bhonsle rulers of Sawantwadi in the year 1550. However, the course of the fort was taken over by the Portuguese Administrate and rebuilt in the year 1705 to bolster their defense. It is a place of historical significance and along with nature and history lovers, it is also a good place to visit with friends and families.
8. Lambassingi, Andhra Pradesh
Lambassingi is a wonderful location in the Chintapalli region of Andhra Pradesh. Over some time, it has become highly popular amongst locals for its untouched and stainless beauty. Lambasting is blessed with the presence of lush greenery, alluring hills, and relaxing streams, and is also known as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh.
With proximity to Vishakapatnam, the commute to Lambassingi is quite easy by road. It has a cool, and pleasant climate all over the year, however, it's suggested to visit this place during spring as Lambasingi is covered with lush green beauty. Tourists can also use the railway as a means of transportation to reach this hill station.
Located on the banks of the Sarada river, the history of this beautiful city dates back thousands of years, and hence, it is home to numerous historical sites. The major places here include Bojjannakonda, Sarada river beaches, Kondakarla Lake and Suryanarayana Temple. This destination is also highly visited by trekkers and nature lovers and can excite others for various things.
Certainly, there is no other way to savor the beauty of hills other than trekking, when you gradually move towards the peak while enjoying beautiful vegetation and an untouched atmosphere. So, when you are in and around Lambasingi, do not forget to trek up its beautiful hill and immerse yourself in this extravaganza.
9. Unakoti, Tripura
Tripura is considered to be the true hidden gem in India which has wonders to disclose. Far from the country’s popular tourist circuits, the third smallest Indian state has one of the least explored travel destinations.
There's a region that is quite famous for its most amusing heritage sites and sculptures located near the forested Jampui Hills and Manu river called Unakoti.
Located in proximity to Agartala, Unakoti’s ‘Lost Hill of Faces’ is a centuries-old Shaivite pilgrimage spot, unlike anything you’ll find in India. There is also the most famous Unakotishwara Kal Bhairav, a 30-foot-high carving of Shiva’s head. The most astonishing feature is its 10-foot-high intricate headdress that is flanked by a warrior-like Goddess Durga on one side and Goddess Ganga on the other.
Besides these, there are several other exquisitely detailed sculptures including Ganesh, Hanuman, and Nandi bull. Unakoti is a must-visit place for those with historical interest and excitement.
10. Osian, Rajasthan
The ancient town of Osain, a hidden gem in India, is located in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan in western India. Jodhpur is popularly known as King's place and is also known as 'The Sun City. Osain is located nearby other tourist attractions such as India’s famous Thar Desert and is known as the ‘Gateway to Thar’ because of its location on the border of the Thar Desert.
Desert safari is a must-try for all tourists for some enthralling experience in the hot sun. Many tourists love this thrilling activity which is an experience unique to the desert. The camel ride is safe and quite enjoyable too. Although, the sunset view is inescapable in the deserted desert. Camel Safari over the dunes and seeing the various desert plants will also be an amazing experience.
Osain is also famous for the Brahmin and Jain temples constructed centuries ago. Osain has its own culture and craft, and they make handmade goods that are exported to various parts of India.
11. Majuli, Assam
Majuli Islands, located in Assam, is one of the most beautiful islands in India. The best time to visit Majuli Island is in the winter season. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll experience the sub-tropical monsoon. The only way to reach Majuli Island is to catch the ferry that runs 20 kilometers out of the main nearby city of Jorhat.
Majuli also has a rich heritage and culture. Here, you’ll see Hindu monasteries, and religious temples filled with artwork. Majuli has a beauty that is captivating in every way and not exploring and experiencing this beautiful location is a sinful act.
12. Malana Village, Himachal Pradesh
One of the oldest villages that have incorporated democracy and are isolated from the rest of the world. The village once inaccessible by any road is now easily accessible if you're visiting any place in the Parvati valley.
The place is not just famous for the amazing view it has to offer but the mysterious people, their traditions, and the cannabis cultivation that attracts major tourists. The village still does not acknowledge any customs or laws from any other village even in Parvati valley. They have a language that is unique to the citizens of the village, they consider themselves descendants of Alexander the great and don't let any outside touch their holy shrines or shops.
A visit to this hidden gem in India is a must to check out how different these people live their lives and how unique it is.
13. Butterfly Beach, Goa
Surrounded by dense forest on one side and leading to the open sea on the other, this place is a whole new experience you wouldn't want to miss for the world! As the name goes Butterfly beach is world-famous for being a wildlife spot where you can find hundreds of exotic butterflies.
Apart from butterflies, during low water, the dunes become wider and are littered with traces of crabs and goldfish. Butterfly beach is also famous for spotting beautiful sea dolphins playing. To top it off, here you get to witness the most majestic and photogenic sunset in your life!
To check out more hidden gems where you can travel, check out our experiences here
FAQs
1. Which is the least visited place in India?
Gurez Valley in Kashmir, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh, Malang Village in Himachal Pradesh, and Lamnassingi in Andhra Pradesh are among the least visited places in India. These places are the hidden gems that will definitely make anyone visiting the place fall in love with it.
2. Which are the offbeat destinations in India?
There are a number of offbeat destinations in India. Nubra Valley, Dawki, Majuli Island and Gokarna are among the best offbeat destinations to visit in India.
3. Which state is most visited by tourists in India?
According to reports, Tamil Nadu is the most visited tourist state in India. With both domestic and international tourists flocking to the state for its vast and exciting offerings, Tamil Nadu is truly a place waiting to be explored.
4. Which city in India has the most foreign visitors?
Delhi and Agra are among the top cities which receive the most number of foreign tourists given the nature and popularity of the places.
Final Words
India is a large country with a lot of places still kept hidden from the prying eyes of enthusiastic tourists. With the diverse cultures and lifestyles of people and places, India will make for a great source to go about finding places that remain untouched or unexplored to this day.
There are also many other hidden gems in Indian tourism that require exploration, but only a true traveler will have the determination and the zeal to find them all. If you are like us and love to explore the unexplored then paying a visit to the places listed above, you will fall in love with the beauty and hospitality of these places and their people.