Posted 01 September 2022 in Travel wanderlust

Twenty Underrated places that you must explore in India

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less travelled by, And that has made all the difference”.

India's landscape is home to some of the world's most stunning hill stations, beautiful beaches, breathtaking deserts, mighty mountains, and lush green forests. Considering the wide range of intriguing destinations worldwide, it's no wonder that the toughest part of planning for any trip becomes nothing but choosing a single destination that all travellers can agree on. Right? However, this guide is a blessing for you, as it helps you to ditch those cliched destinations that you are tired of seeing as tourists like Goa, Shimla, Jaipur and what not.

The following list is designed specifically for travellers who want to disconnect from the frantic crowds and discover the untouched parts of India that are unexplored, unhampered and untouched.

On this note, we are here to bring before you a list of Indian destinations that are less travelled by. Therefore, don't be stuck spending your time on the same dazzling beaches and hill stations, when India is full of amazing wonders that have yet to be discovered. All of these offbeat places are sure to add everlasting memories to your travelogues. So, here you go!

The lesser-known places in India that you must explore

Here is a list of some of the hidden gems of India that will captivate you with their beauty. So, we suggest you include these destinations on your travel list because why always take the same journey when India has surprises at every corner for all their avid travellers.

1. Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Decorated with pine and deodar trees, the quaint hill station, Chail, resides in the heart of Himachal Pradesh. This offbeat destination is located very close to the hyped Shimla and has freshness and magic oozing from every corner. Be it summer or monsoon, exploring Chail will always be an absolute bliss and holiday delight. Some of the places that you can explore in this picturesque hill station are Lover’s Hill, Chail Sanctuary, Sadhupul Lake, Kali ka Tibba and a lot more.

Nearest airport: Jabarhatti Airport
Best time to visit: March-May and September-November

2. Majuli, Assam

Tucked in the laps of nature, Majuli is a perfect escapade from the restlessness and chaos of city life. This is one of those hidden gems in North East India that is situated by the side of the meandering Brahmaputra river. Recognized as the ‘largest freshwater island in Asia’, Majuli is still an unknown realm for many travellers. It is said that the island is the cultural hub of Assam and is home to a number of indigenous tribes. So, do not forget to witness the everyday life of these tribals once you are here.

Nearest airport: Jorhat Airport
Best time to visit: July-March

3. Malana, Himachal Pradesh

If you want to disconnect yourself from the rest of the world for a few days, then there is one place in Himachal Pradesh that you must explore - Malana. Located by the side of Parvati Valley at an altitude of 9,500 ft., this tiny and secluded hamlet offers some of the best views of Chanderkhani and Deo Tibba peaks. Just so you know, Malana is the land where one of the finest weeds is grown. But, shhh, keep this a secret as you already know why!

Nearest airport: Kullu Airport
Best time to visit: May-September

4. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Honoured as the cleanest village of Asia, Mawlynnong is settled in the pristine hills of Khasi Hills. This scenic hamlet is the epitome of the locals living in harmony with mother nature. Blessed with the cleanest streets, scratchless houses, green environs and well-maintained tourist spots, there are so many things that urban folks can learn from the locals of Mawlynnong.

If you think this was all about it, you got it wrong as there are tourist attractions like Jinghmaham Living Root Bridge, River Dawki, Mawlynnong Waterfall, which makes the place all the more worth visiting.

Nearest airport: Shillong Airport
Best time to visit: June-September

5. Netarhat, Jharkhand

Not many travellers are aware of the enthralling beauty that they can witness in Jharkhand - out of all the destinations Netarhat is surely a standout. This summer retreat is decorated with the most scenic views and has phenomenal views of the sunset to offer from Sunset Point to all its tourists. This much-admired hill station is located in the heart of Chotanagpur Plateau and a few places to visit in Netarhat are Koel View Point, Sadni Falls, Ghagri Falls and many more. If you have time, also explore the neighbouring falls such as Dassam Falls and Johna Falls.

Nearest airport: Ranchi Airport
Best time to visit: October-March

6. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

This destination is one of the best for you to experience a laid-back holiday in the vicinity of nature. Ziro is blessed with pleasant weather that makes it a year-round destination for all avid travellers. Interact with the native Apa Tani tribe, witness the hardworking locals on the rice fields, or take out your camera to click a bunch of pictures for an everlasting memory. Alongside, relish the local delicacies of the place such as pika pila, apong, etc.

Nearest airport: Tezpur Airport
Best time to visit: March-May and October-November

7. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Mandu is the sheer epitome of phenomenal architectural jewels. Mandu is also the gateway to the rich and regal history of Madhya Pradesh. From Hathi Mahal, Jahaz Mahal to Ashrafi Mahal, Mandu is a great place for history buffs to drench in the cultural past of the place. So, get to know tales of the eternal stories of romance and love of singer Roopmati and Baz Bahadur, while you explore these places.

Nearest airport: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport
Best time to visit: October-March

8. Meghamalai, Madurai

Recognised as `high wavy mountains’, Meghmalai is an offbeat destination that is a must-visit for all those who wish to soak in the astounding beauty of nature. Located at an elevation of 1500 m, Meghmalai is decorated with dense evergreen forest and tea plantations. The aroma of tea leaves and spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon refreshes the overall surroundings.

Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Best time to visit: October-May

9. Ponmudi, Kerala

Snuggled in the laps of Western Ghats, Ponmudi is jotted with rolling hills, expansive tea plantations, alluring waterfalls and colourful flora. Out of everything, hiking to the top of Agasthyarkoodam which is perched at an altitude of 1868 ft is definitely a standout of all the experiences. Whether you explore wildlife views at Mini Zoo or discover enthralling sights at Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, you are sure to head back with a bagful of memories.

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Best time to visit: October-March

10. Kamshet, Maharashtra

If you are in the mood to explore the unexplored regions in Maharashtra, then Kamshet can be the place for you! Come and unwind in the vicinity of hills, explore the surrounding villages or if you are in for adventures, then paraglide. A few of the places that you can explore in Kamshet are Bairi Caves, Pavana Lake and Bedse Caves, and all of these are sure to blow your mind with their charm.

Nearest airport: Pune Airport
Best time to visit: October-May

11. Bhangarh, Rajasthan

India’s spookiest destination, Bhangarh in Rajasthan is a must-visit for all those who are in for some haunted stories. Located in Alwar, the Bhangarh Fort is what attracts herds of brave souls for being a part of eerie surroundings and at the same time witnessing the remarkable charm of the fort. The place however closes before sunset and is definitely not the right choice if you are one of those faint-hearted souls.

Nearest airport: Jaipur Airport
Best time to visit: All year round

12. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Wish to explore the unadulterated and inexplicable charm of nature but far from the madding crowd? If yes, then pack your bags for a memorable trip to Chopta. An ideal starting point for many trekkers, Chopta lets you admire the beauty of colourful meadows, cotton-like clouds, rolling hills, and vibrant streets. Already intrigued, then unwind and take a much-needed break from your work life.

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Best time to visit: April-June

13. Hemis, Leh

Just like Leh, Hemis is equally blessed with the most scenic landscape that is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. The Hemis National Park is home to the snow leopard and offers a memorable wildlife expedition to all wildlife lovers. Hemis is also the place for religious souls to meditate at the famous monasteries such as Hemis Gompa, Shang Gompa, Gotsang Gompa and a few more.

Nearest airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Best time to visit: May-September

14. Chakrata, Uttarakhand

Another lesser-talked destination in India is Chakrata. Unlike the hyped hill stations of Uttarakhand such as Mussoorie, Dehradun and Nainital, Chakrata’s isolated surroundings provide you with the space to sync with the self and nature. Offering a serene gateway to the spectacular hills, Chakarta is far from the city chaos. So, pack your bags and indulge in activities like bird-watching, trekking to the Tiger Falls or exploring the Budher Caves.

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Best time to visit: March-June

15. Khimsar Village, Rajasthan

Snuggled amidst the astounding desert, Khimsar Village in Rajasthan is truly a hidden gem. This unknown realm has to offer some of the best views of golden sand dunes, clear blue sky, cactus plants and even the mighty camels. Take in the views of the sunrise and sunset in your camera lens, experience the thrill of desert safari or savour some Rajasthani cuisines to spend some of the best days in the Khimsar Village.

Nearest airport: Jodhpur Airport
Best time to visit: November-February

16. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

If you are looking for a secluded vacation in North East India, then Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh can be the best pick for you. Nestled amidst the Himalayas, Tawang is perched at an altitude of 3048 m. Whether you wish to have a spiritual time, enjoy the picturesque views of nature or gorge on the local cuisines of the place, this offbeat destination has something for each one of you. A few of the sightseeing spots in Tawang include Tawang Valley, Gorichen Peak, Madhuri Lake and the list does not end here.

Nearest airport: Tezpur Airport
Best time to visit: March-May and September-November

17. Patan, Gujarat

A tiny town in Gujarat, Patan is often unknown to a lot of travellers. This hidden treasure is a reservoir of endless architectural marvels and more than anything else it is the rich history of the place that fascinates many travellers. There are Jain temples, dargahs and most importantly is the home to UNESCO’s World Heritage Site - Rani Ki Vav. So, if you are up to quench your thirst for historical insights, not visiting Patan would be no less than a sin.

Nearest airport: Ahmedabad Airport
Best time to visit: October-March

18. Valparai, Tamil Nadu

We have yet another suggestion for all those who are still on the lookout for offbeat destinations in India and that is Valparai. Perched at an elevation of 1500 m, Valparai is a small hill station in the laps of Anamalai hills. Owing to its alluring landscape jotted with the beauty of misty hills and lush green vegetation, Valparai has now evolved as a sought-after destination for many travellers.

Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport
Best time to visit: September-March

19. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh

This lovely and tiny hamlet in Himachal Pradesh is dotted with green shades of nature. Home to several wooden temples, Shoja is the place where both skilled and amateur photographers can get immense photographic opportunities. The views of the surrounding Dhauladhar and Himalayan ranges from Shoja is no less than a feast to the eyes.

Nearest airport: Bhuntar Airport
Best time to visit: March-June and September-November

20. Moodbidri, Karnataka

A much-revered destination for all the followers of Jainism, Moodbidri in Karnataka is home to some of the oldest Jain shrines. The temples are adorned with carved pillars and architectural jewels which is truly a captivating sight and a delight to the eyes. Besides, there are Kanchi Bail Waterfall and Durga Waterfall for you to soak in the ethereal views of nature and listen to the serene music of flowing water.

Nearest airport: Mangalore Airport
Best time to visit: September-March

Got ample information about all the offbeat destinations? That’s what we are here for. So, without any more thinking, make sure to travel to all of these places one by one and collect a bagful of cherishable memories.