India is a vast country with many hidden gems waiting to be explored. While popular tourist destinations like Rajasthan, Kerala, and Goa are incredible, several unexplored places in India offer unique experiences. From mountains to beaches, India’s less famous destinations boast breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating culture, and adventure. Here are 15 magical yet underrated places in India for the offbeat traveler.
Which is the magical place in India?
India has no dearth of magical places that can enchant any traveler. From lush green valleys to pristine beaches, India offers a myriad of options when it comes to magical destinations. However, if I had to pick one such magical place in India, it would be Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Tawang is blessed with surreal natural beauty due to its location at 10,000 feet above sea level. The picturesque Tawang monastery, built in the 17th century, is the highlight of Tawang. The ancient monastery is dramatically perched on the edge of a mountain and offers magnificent views of the valley. Tawang is also home to vibrant tribal cultures like the Monpa tribe. The alpine lakes and hot springs dotted around Tawang add an aura of magic to the place. Untouched by mainstream tourism, Tawang feels like stepping into a different world altogether. Its pristine environs, devotional vibes, and laidback way of life make Tawang the most magical place in India for me.
Ziro Valley – Arunachal Pradesh
Tucked away in the lush green state of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is a hidden gem with verdant rice fields and quaint tribal villages. Home to the indigenous Apatani tribe, Ziro Valley gives a glimpse into unique tribal culture through its bamboo hut settlements and age-old traditions. The valley comes alive in September during the Ziro Festival of Music, which celebrates indie music against the dramatic valley backdrop. With its pristine environs and captivating tribal way of life, Ziro Valley is India’s best-kept secret.
Champhai – Mizoram
Perched at an altitude of 1,000 meters, Champhai is a scenic hill station in Mizoram near the Myanmar border. Overlooking the serene hills of Myanmar, Champhai charms with its tranquil vibes. The rolling green hills around Champhai are dotted with historic monoliths and ancient ruins. Champhai allows an escape into nature through activities like trekking, camping under the stars, and birdwatching. The laidback town, with its verdant hills and clean mountain air, promises relaxation amidst mesmerizing landscapes.
Dholavira – Gujarat
History buffs cannot miss the ancient ruins of Dholavira in Gujarat’s Kutch region. A prime Harappan site, Dholavira’s ancientness and deserted environs create an aura of magic. Dholavira features well-preserved ruins of an ancient civilization, with remains of houses, water systems, and tombs. The archaeological remains are set against the photogenic backdrop of the white Rann of Kutch, creating dramatic vistas. Dholavira offers a peek into the ruins of a lost civilization, making it a must-visit.
Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s Kaas Plateau is a nature lover’s paradise famed for its valley of flowers. Transformed into a floral carpet during monsoons, Kaas bursts with millions of wildflowers like sonkadi and yellow champa. Walking through the flower-filled Kaas plateau as drizzles create a misty ambiance is an ethereal experience. Aside from wildflowers, Kaas is home to rich biodiversity with over 850 species of flowering plants. UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaas Plateau, is one of India’s most colorful natural wonders.
Majuli – Assam
A world away from modern civilization, Majuli is a breath of fresh air with its rustic charm. Situated on the mighty Brahmaputra river, Majuli is the world’s largest river island. This offbeat destination allows you to experience the traditional way of life in Assam’s tribal villages. Most of Majuli comprises farmlands, along with ancient monasteries called satras. The island comes alive during celebrations like Raas Purnima when the satras are brightly lit up. For a rejuvenating experience amid nature, Majuli is just the place.
Lepchajagat – West Bengal
Far away from Darjeeling’s touristy chaos lies the serene hill town of Lepchajagat in West Bengal. Set amidst misty green forests with views of Kanchenjunga, Lepchajagat is ideal for a tranquil mountain getaway. Spend days soaking in the postcard-perfect mountain scenery or take guided nature walks through oak and rhododendron forests. Lepchajagat’s laidback environs dotted with colonial bungalows promise relaxation for the soul. With its cool climate and immersion in nature, Lepchajagat feels like a little slice of heaven.
Valparai – Tamil Nadu
Valparai is Tamil Nadu’s picturesque little hill station nestled in the Anaimalai Hills. Surrounded by lush tropical forests and tea plantations, Valparai is great for nature lovers. Explore the indigenous wildlife here through jeep safaris in the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. Stay in a tea estate bungalow for an old-world plantation experience amid beautiful scenery. Waterfalls like Monkey Falls and natural sights like Nallamudi Poonjolai viewpoint should not be missed. From rich wildlife to tea estates, Valparai is one of South India’s hidden gems.
Mandu – Madhya Pradesh
The ancient ruined city of Mandu lies tucked away in Madhya Pradesh’s plains, forgotten by the modern world. Ruling over Mandu from the 14th to 16th century, the Malwa sultans built exquisite palaces, mosques, and tombs. Lying in ruins today, Mandu’s Afghan-style monuments, like Jahaz Mahal Palace, retain an aura of grandeur. Watching the sunset over Mandu’s medieval ruins is an evocative experience. The architecture, history, and natural beauty of this ghost town make it intensely atmospheric.
Chaukori – Uttarakhand
For pristine Himalayan beauty, head to the offbeat hamlet of Chaukori in Uttarakhand. Perched at 7,000 feet in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chaukori charms with tranquil environs and incredible mountain vistas. Wake up to majestic views of Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and other Himalayan peaks from here. The untouched forests around Chaukori are perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. From basking in the rising sun to stargazing at night, Chaukori is the ideal Himalayan retreat.
Bhimbetka – Madhya Pradesh
Hidden away in the forests near Bhopal lie the ancient Bhimbetka rock shelters, dating back over 30,000 years. Displaying some of the world’s oldest Stone Age rock art, these caves are a treasure trove for history and archaeology lovers. Bhimbetka’s rock shelters contain Cave of Dancers with evocative Stone Age dance paintings. Walking through these prehistoric caves adorned with vivid rock art of people, animals, and everyday scenes transports you back in time. The stunning setting of the Bhimbetka caves within forested hills further enhances the magic.
Bangaram Island – Lakshadweep
For sparkling turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, head to Bangaram in Lakshadweep. This tiny coral island lets you experience an idyllic tropical paradise. Ringed by coral reefs, Bangaram boasts one of Lakshadweep’s most beautiful beaches with shallow blue lagoons. Go snorkeling to witness rich marine life under the sea. Stay in thatched beach cottages at night, gazing at a starry sky while lulled by gentle waves. With its remote location, white sands, and azure waters, Bangaram Island seems right out of a dream.
Yousmarg – Jammu and Kashmir
Nestled deep within mountains near Srinagar is the pristine valley of Yousmarg. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and coniferous forests, Yousmarg promises unadulterated natural beauty. Carpeted with meadows of flowers like daisies and buttercups, Yousmarg transforms into a colorful wonderland during spring. Terrain, ranging from grasslands to forests, is perfect for trekking. Camp under the stars next to the gurgling Doodhganga river for a magical experience. For an immersion in Kashmir’s sublime scenery, Yousmarg is just a tranquil escape.
Tarkarli – Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s Konkan coast is dotted with pristine beaches, with Tarkarli being the prettiest among them. Located by the Arabian Sea, Tarkarli charms with white sands lined by Sindhudurg fort and swaying palm trees. With its clear turquoise waters and water sports opportunities, Tarkarli is great for beach vacations. Take boat rides on the Karli River or go scuba diving to see coral reefs. Tarkarli’s laidback seaside setting makes it one of India’s most serene beaches.
Lambasingi – Andhra Pradesh
Lambasingi is Andhra Pradesh’s slice of paradise with its stunning landscapes. Nestled in the Chintapalli forests, Lambasingi is dotted with gardens of vibrant flowers like dahlia, chrysanthemum, and roses. The Himalayan-like climate here, with mist-cloaked hills and chilly weather, has earned Lambasingi the title of ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh.’ Visit during winter to experience sub-zero temperatures or during brilliant spring blossoms. With its crisp mountain air, verdant meadows, and idyllic setting, Lambasingi is sheer magic.
Osian – Rajasthan
The ancient town of Osian near Jodhpur offers a window into medieval Rajasthan. Dotted with temples and tombs dating from the 8th to 12th centuries, Osian houses exquisite examples of early Rajputana architecture. Marvel at detailed carvings on Jain and Hindu shrines here, along with the magnificence of Surya or Sun Temple. Osian’s collection of ruined temples against the Thar desert backdrop evokes the splendor of a bygone era. Osian’s desert landscape, coupled with medieval ruins, make it uniquely captivating.
India’s less explored destinations provide an escape from the routine into beauty and adventure. From archaeological ruins to flower valleys, these magical yet underrated places offer charm and wonder. So ditch the usual hotspots and venture into India’s hidden gems for an unforgettable journey.
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