To explore India, what is the first place that comes to mind?
Is it the Taj Mahal? Or Mumbai?
India is not just a monument or a famous city. There is so much more to see and explore in India that is lesser known. Identifying these gems can be a rewarding experience. These places are an equal blend of natural beauty, culture, and peace. Best to give you a unique experience.
This article will share 12 places that are off the beaten road:
Nubra Valley
The local community knows Nubra as Ldumra, which means “valley of flowers” in Ladakhi. Nubra Valley is famous for its centuries-old gompas, hot sulfur springs, high-altitude dunes, double-humped Bactrian camels, and a distinct combination of mountains, rivers, and deserts. The Karakoram mountain range and valley combine to form a spectacular desert landscape with lush farmland.
Khajjiar
Khajjiar, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a breathtaking hill station in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba region. Tourists recognize it for its verdant meadows, deep woodlands, and serene lake encircled by cedar trees. Adventurers can participate in sports such as paragliding, zorbing, and horseback riding.
Chopta
Chopta is a stunning hill station and an ideal trekking location in Uttarakhand. Chopta, surrounded by meadows and evergreen forests along with breathtaking views of the great Himalayan mountains, attracts both Indian and international tourists and trekkers all year. Chopta serves as the base for a variety of trekking sites, including Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Auli
Auli, which means Meadows (“Bugyal”), is a snow-covered hill station and a popular winter destination as an Indian ski resort. The hill station is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India, at an elevation of 2743 m above sea level. This area includes everything a tourist may want or dream of, including a Himalayan view, a ropeway, snow-covered surroundings, skiing, meadows, adventure sports, authentic stays, and much more.
Dehradun
This magnificent hill station, one of the most popular in the country, brings together fascinating history and intriguing folklore. Lofty mountains and lush Sal forest surround Dehradun, located 240 kilometers from Delhi and positioned in the rolling Doon Valley at the foothills of the Himalayas. The city, known for its nice year-round weather and attractive environs, serves as a gateway to several popular hill stations such as Mussoorie as well as pilgrimage sites such as Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Nainital
Nainital, the lovely Himalayan lake town, is a picture-perfect hill station and one of Northern India’s most popular destinations. Nainital, often known as the ‘Lake District,’ is located high in the Kumaon Himalayas at an elevation of around 2,000 meters above sea level. Seven hills, also known as ‘Sapta-Shring’, encircle this lovely town. The gorgeous mountains and the lake’s dazzling waters contribute significantly to the town’s charm.
Gokarna
Gokarna, known for its picturesque beaches and pure waters, is a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing vacation. It is a more relaxed and less commercialized version of Goa. Apart from the well-known Om Beach, there is Kudle Beach, as well as the more remote Half Moon and Paradise beaches.
Mussoorie
Mussoorie, popularly known as the Queen of the Hills, is one of the most popular hill stations in the country. Mussoorie is located on a 15-kilometer-long horseshoe ridge with the magnificent Himalayas as a backdrop, rising 2,000 meters above sea level. This vantage point provides spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks in Western Garhwal.
Spiti
The Spiti Valley is a desert mountain valley in the Himalayas highlands in the northeast Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The term “Spiti” translates as “The Middle Land,” referring to the region between Tibet and India. The Pin Valley and the Lingti Valley are two of Spiti’s most popular side valleys.
Pulga
Pulga is noted for its scenic beauty and wooden homestays nestled among lush deodar forests, rivers, and apple orchards. Pulga, one of three little towns near Barshainialong with Kalga and Tulga, is located at an altitude of 2,210m above sea level, making it a delight for nature enthusiasts.
Orchha
Orchha is a jewel in the crown of Madhya Pradesh, with captivating temples, historical buildings, and a wealth of folklore. This small, pastoral hamlet is generally known as Raja Ram’s Kingdom, and it may be the only place in the country, outside of Ayodhya, where people revere Lord Rama as a beloved ruler rather than just a god.
Patan
Patan, Gujarat, is one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations, boasting a rich history, vibrant culture, gorgeous architecture, and an excellent folk art legacy. Patan boasts several legendary landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Rani-ki-vav, a magnificent step well. The city also cherishes its diverse Hindu and Jain temples and mosques, which showcase some of the finest architectural styles of their time.
Conclusion
There are many more less explored and much scenic and beautiful places in India. Many places offer tranquility and help you find inner peace. Finding your own way to see the world will leave you with satisfaction.
Explore them. Know that to see the wonders of the world, it is not always the labeled ones.
