At a time when the holiday bells are tolling, the perfect way to rediscover yourself is to take a vacation to explorethe unexplored places in India. This festive season, travel the lengths and breadths of our country and find joy in the offbeat corners of it. We’ve put together for you the absolute must-see offbeat places in India which are offbeat and travelogues often skip because of the obscure nature of these locales. After all, Columbus wouldn’t be Columbus if he’d stuck to taking the same journey again and again, right?
1. Kurnool, Seemandhra: Historically yours
History, locales and sunny climes punched into a single place. Who wouldn’t want that for an offbeat vacation?Kurnool is home to a number of temples such as the Peta Anjanyeswami temple, the Venugopalaswami temple, the new Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. Other offbeat tourist attractions are the Belum caves, Birla mandir, Oravakallu Rock Garden, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary and the Tomb of Abdul Wahab.
2. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh: Explore The Unexplored
20. Anthargange, Karnataka: Among the rocks
1. Kurnool, Seemandhra: Historically yours
History, locales and sunny climes punched into a single place. Who wouldn’t want that for an offbeat vacation?Kurnool is home to a number of temples such as the Peta Anjanyeswami temple, the Venugopalaswami temple, the new Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. Other offbeat tourist attractions are the Belum caves, Birla mandir, Oravakallu Rock Garden, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary and the Tomb of Abdul Wahab.
When to visit: November- February, as the summers tend to get very hot and the monsoons are quite wet. The cooler months are a better time to lose yourself in this pretty little unexplored place in Seemandhra.
2. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh: Explore The Unexplored
A lesser known offbeat place in the crown of the North-East, Ziro is one of those places which boasts of agreeable climate throughout the year. Observe the beautiful green patches and rice fields, feel at home with the Apa Tani tribe and let your camera stretch its legs. All this and more. Enjoy!
Best time to visit: Throughout the year. The weather is pleasant and soothing for an offbeat holiday.
A lesser known offbeat place in the crown of the North-East, Ziro is one of those places which boasts of agreeable climate throughout the year. Observe the beautiful green patches and rice fields, feel at home with the Apa Tani tribe and let your camera stretch its legs. All this and more. Enjoy!3. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: Monastery hopping
Situated at a height of about 3048 meters above sea level, Tawang is a beautiful yet offbeat hill town that houses several monasteries. It is also popular as the birth place of the Dalai Lama. The best time to visit this picturesque offbeat place is in the months of March to September, as the summers are cool, while winters are often snow-clad.
When to visit Tawang: March to September. The summers are cool and pleasant, but the winters can get bitterly cold. The spring is the best time to see the valley in all its shiny glory.
Situated at a height of about 3048 meters above sea level, Tawang is a beautiful yet offbeat hill town that houses several monasteries. It is also popular as the birth place of the Dalai Lama. The best time to visit this picturesque offbeat place is in the months of March to September, as the summers are cool, while winters are often snow-clad.4. Majuli, Assam: Water Water everywhere!
Famous as the “World’s largest fresh water island”, this idyllic river island on the River Brahmaputra is located 20 kilometers away from the city of Jorhat. Referred to as the cultural capital of Assam, Majuli is a beautiful and unexplored place resplendent with several festivals throughout the year. A must visit offbeat place t travel.
Ideal season to visit Majuli: Majuli is probably most beautiful during the monsoon, when the river is swollen and beautiful. October-March is a nice time to visit, with the cool climate makes a trip to Majuli absolutely worthwhile.
Famous as the “World’s largest fresh water island”, this idyllic river island on the River Brahmaputra is located 20 kilometers away from the city of Jorhat. Referred to as the cultural capital of Assam, Majuli is a beautiful and unexplored place resplendent with several festivals throughout the year. A must visit offbeat place t travel.5. Manas National Park, Assam: Unity in Diversity
Manas National Park is one of the UNESCO Natural World Heritage sites in Assam. It boasts of an Elephant Reserve, a Tiger Reserve and a biodiversity reserve. Neat and clean, well kept and not crowded like a Mumbai local during peak hours, this tends to a be a great choice for a peaceful holiday place.
The best time to visit Manas National Park are from October to April.
Manas National Park is one of the UNESCO Natural World Heritage sites in Assam. It boasts of an Elephant Reserve, a Tiger Reserve and a biodiversity reserve. Neat and clean, well kept and not crowded like a Mumbai local during peak hours, this tends to a be a great choice for a peaceful holiday place.6. Champaner – Pavagadh, Gujarat: Wrapped in history
This is one of those UNESCO World Heritage Sites that will blow your mind away with its historical appeal. It is said that the Pavagadh hills are nothing but a chunk of the Himalayas carried over by Hanuman during Ramayana. A town with historical ruins set in the lap of the Pavagadh hills, this is a surefire offbeat place to visit.
October to February are the best months to visit Champaner Pavagadh. The Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is open all year and is a delight to visit for its Hindu and Islamic styles of design.
This is one of those UNESCO World Heritage Sites that will blow your mind away with its historical appeal. It is said that the Pavagadh hills are nothing but a chunk of the Himalayas carried over by Hanuman during Ramayana. A town with historical ruins set in the lap of the Pavagadh hills, this is a surefire offbeat place to visit.7. Patan, Gujarat: Old world charm
One of the newest addtitions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, Patan has sprung to popularity in traveler circuits because of its Rani ka Vav. Surrounded by huge walls and a very old world charm, this former capital of medieval Gujarat will make for a lovely offbeat holiday place to travel to.
One of the newest addtitions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, Patan has sprung to popularity in traveler circuits because of its Rani ka Vav. Surrounded by huge walls and a very old world charm, this former capital of medieval Gujarat will make for a lovely offbeat holiday place to travel to.8. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh: Paharon ki Mallika
Famous as the “Mini switzerland of India”, Khajjiar is a beautiful, sleepy hill town near Dalhousie that’s replete with hills, lakes and meadows, a la Bollywood Ghost Movies. Visitors, apart of reveling in the quiet mystery of this glorious, yet underrated hill town, can also partake of various adventure sports like paragliding, horse-riding, trekking and the like.
Khajjiar can be easily visited throughout the year. However, during the cold months, roads are often sealed off due to heavy snowfall. This may end up being a trip spoiler. However, if you’re an adventurous traveler, carry heavy woolens.
Famous as the “Mini switzerland of India”, Khajjiar is a beautiful, sleepy hill town near Dalhousie that’s replete with hills, lakes and meadows, a la Bollywood Ghost Movies. Visitors, apart of reveling in the quiet mystery of this glorious, yet underrated hill town, can also partake of various adventure sports like paragliding, horse-riding, trekking and the like.9. Shojha, Himachal Pradesh: The beauty of simplicity
10. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh:
One of the less frequented holiday places of Himachal Pradesh, Kasol is the place to be for an authentic hillside experience. The snow capped Himalayas, the Parvati river, the hippie tourists all together make for a trip worth remembering.
October to May is the best time to visit this flawless hill town. If you enjoy a winter vibe and would like to explore the town while its chilly, go to Kasol in January or February.
One of the less frequented holiday places of Himachal Pradesh, Kasol is the place to be for an authentic hillside experience. The snow capped Himalayas, the Parvati river, the hippie tourists all together make for a trip worth remembering.11. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh: An unsung song of mystery
This is one of those unexplored places which has something on offer for everyone. Adventure sports, trout fishing, exploration of an under-explored hill town, all punched into one lovely combination called Tirthan Valley. Take your pick on what you wish to do while you’re here and visit accordingly. Oh! Also, there’s the option of doing absolutely nothing and chilling in the pine-studded landscape of Tirthan Valley!
Ideal weather to visit Tirthan Valley: March-June, October-November. For those who wish to do trout fishing in the River Tirthan, the warmer time of the year are preferable.
This is one of those unexplored places which has something on offer for everyone. Adventure sports, trout fishing, exploration of an under-explored hill town, all punched into one lovely combination called Tirthan Valley. Take your pick on what you wish to do while you’re here and visit accordingly. Oh! Also, there’s the option of doing absolutely nothing and chilling in the pine-studded landscape of Tirthan Valley!12. Spiti, Himachal Pradesh: A feast for the eye
Spiti is a delight for travellers. A virgin hill resort with opportunities for adventure sports, it fills visitors with awe at its majestic grandeur. Spiti is a relatively offbeat haven for trekkers and soul seekers, being home to many Buddhist temples and monasteries.
May to October is the best time to visit Spiti. The region receives light to medium rainfall at the time and the rain gives it the blush of a maiden fair, which makes this the best time to visit Spiti. The winters are harsh and many-a-time unbearable and should be avoided.
Spiti is a delight for travellers. A virgin hill resort with opportunities for adventure sports, it fills visitors with awe at its majestic grandeur. Spiti is a relatively offbeat haven for trekkers and soul seekers, being home to many Buddhist temples and monasteries.13. Nubra Valley, Jammu & Kashmir: Strokes of Art
This land of ethereal, timeless beauty, which looks like it has stepped straight out of a book of Advanced Art, is a miracle worth beholding. Nubra Valley lies on the Silk route, about 140 kilometers away from Leh. The rivers Shyok and Nubra course through the valley, giving it a beautiful essence. This is the destination to visit if you’re looking to be mesmerized by the wonders that our country has on offer.
June to October is the ideal period to visit Nubra Valley.
This land of ethereal, timeless beauty, which looks like it has stepped straight out of a book of Advanced Art, is a miracle worth beholding. Nubra Valley lies on the Silk route, about 140 kilometers away from Leh. The rivers Shyok and Nubra course through the valley, giving it a beautiful essence. This is the destination to visit if you’re looking to be mesmerized by the wonders that our country has on offer.14. Hemis, Jammu & Kashmir: The snow leopard’s home
One of the less talked about places in the Jammu and Kashmir map, Hemis is a beautiful place surrounded bysnow capped ranges all around. Pay a visit to the Hemis Gompa or the Hemis National Park, which is home to thesnow leopard. Let your camera have some fun here!
May-June is the best time to visit Hemis. Temperatures in winter can fall as low as -30 degrees Centigrade.
One of the less talked about places in the Jammu and Kashmir map, Hemis is a beautiful place surrounded bysnow capped ranges all around. Pay a visit to the Hemis Gompa or the Hemis National Park, which is home to thesnow leopard. Let your camera have some fun here!15. Gokarna, Karnataka: Beaches beckon!
Famous for its pristine, unspoilt beaches, relatively offbeat place Gokarna is quickly gaining popularity as a favorite beach resort among youngsters and hippies. Being a temple town primarily, the place is of a slow and relaxed atmosphere, which makes for a very pleasurable holiday.
Gokarna can be comfortably visited all year round, except the rainy season, when the beaches are unkempt and desolate. November to February are the months when Gokarna is most frequented, both by Indian and International tourists.
Famous for its pristine, unspoilt beaches, relatively offbeat place Gokarna is quickly gaining popularity as a favorite beach resort among youngsters and hippies. Being a temple town primarily, the place is of a slow and relaxed atmosphere, which makes for a very pleasurable holiday.16. Halebid, Karnataka: “Ruined” beauty
Halebid is a city famous for its ruins of Hoysala architecture. Its is agog with a lovely bunch of temples and shrines and other delectable pieces of architecture. A city famous for its spiritual appeal, it is home to the Hoysaleswara temple, Belur, Shantaleswara temple, Kedareswara temple and a number of Jain temples.
October to February is the best period to visit Halebid. A trip during Mahashivratri and Diwali can be an equally enchanting experience in Halebid.
Halebid is a city famous for its ruins of Hoysala architecture. Its is agog with a lovely bunch of temples and shrines and other delectable pieces of architecture. A city famous for its spiritual appeal, it is home to the Hoysaleswara temple, Belur, Shantaleswara temple, Kedareswara temple and a number of Jain temples.17. Shivanasamundram, Karnataka: “a cascade of gifts”
A town situated on the banks of the River Kaveri and known for its Hydel Power Projects, Shivanasamudram is famous for its pristine waterfalls. The most popular ones are Gaganachukki and Shivanasamudra waterfalls. A great offbeat place.
August to February is the ideal time to visit Shivanasamudram. However, the weather is pleasant all year round with the exception of light rain during monsoons.
A town situated on the banks of the River Kaveri and known for its Hydel Power Projects, Shivanasamudram is famous for its pristine waterfalls. The most popular ones are Gaganachukki and Shivanasamudra waterfalls. A great offbeat place.18. Savandurga, Karnataka: The Climb
A 60 kilometers drive away from Bangalore, Savandurga can prove to be a great weekend haunt for people in the IT city. Visitors can go trekking, rock climbing or camping in what is considered to be one of the largest single rock formations in the whole of Asia.
November to May is a good time to visit this offbeat trekking destination. Both summers and winters are great to visit this spot. Avoid the rains as they may make the rocks too slippery and result in accidents.
A 60 kilometers drive away from Bangalore, Savandurga can prove to be a great weekend haunt for people in the IT city. Visitors can go trekking, rock climbing or camping in what is considered to be one of the largest single rock formations in the whole of Asia.19. Shivagange, Karnataka: Some for you, some for me
Shivagange got its spiritually charged name from the hillock which looks like a “Shivalingam”. There’s water bodies right to the top of the hill, which locals believe are from the Holy river Ganga, giving the place its name.Shivangange is a haven for tourists and pilgrims and is called Dakshina Kashi or the Kashi of South India for its ample number of temples. Rock climbing and trekking are a favorite past-time for every visitor here. Shivangange makes for an idiosyncratic holiday for having something for every visitor.
Trekkers will get the best out of their holiday from October to March, whereas pilgrims can visit all year round.
Shivagange got its spiritually charged name from the hillock which looks like a “Shivalingam”. There’s water bodies right to the top of the hill, which locals believe are from the Holy river Ganga, giving the place its name.Shivangange is a haven for tourists and pilgrims and is called Dakshina Kashi or the Kashi of South India for its ample number of temples. Rock climbing and trekking are a favorite past-time for every visitor here. Shivangange makes for an idiosyncratic holiday for having something for every visitor.
Anthargange in the Kolar District of Karnataka is famous for a number of volcanic rock formations and caves formed out of these rocks. Set at a distance of 70 kilometers from Bangalore, Anthargange is situated at an altitude of 1712 meters above sea level and is considered the Elysium of trekkers, rock climbers and exploration fanatics. A truly offbeat unexplored beautiful place.
October to March are the best months to visit Anthargange, as the rains make rock climbing comparatively risky.
Anthargange in the Kolar District of Karnataka is famous for a number of volcanic rock formations and caves formed out of these rocks. Set at a distance of 70 kilometers from Bangalore, Anthargange is situated at an altitude of 1712 meters above sea level and is considered the Elysium of trekkers, rock climbers and exploration fanatics. A truly offbeat unexplored beautiful place.21. Maravanthe, Karnataka:
A paradise worth driving to! The roads leading upto Maravanthe should definitely be explored for the sheer bliss of the drive (even better if we’re talking about a bike). The sea runs parallel to the roads and is definitely something to do in Maravanthe. It is a virgin beach town whose white sand beaches will facilitate that break that you’ve been wanting to take for so long.
September to March is the perfect time to indulge in water sports in this offbeat beach destination.
A paradise worth driving to! The roads leading upto Maravanthe should definitely be explored for the sheer bliss of the drive (even better if we’re talking about a bike). The sea runs parallel to the roads and is definitely something to do in Maravanthe. It is a virgin beach town whose white sand beaches will facilitate that break that you’ve been wanting to take for so long.22. Varkala, Kerala:
A little paradise in Kerala, Varkala is replete with clear, pristine beaches, hills, shrines, lighthouses, et al. The must visit places in this beach abode are the Papanasam Beach, the Varkala Beach, the Kappil Lake and lighthouses in the area. One can treat oneself to a number of adventure sports like paragliding and parasailing in Varkala.
September to April is a good time to visit Varkala.
A little paradise in Kerala, Varkala is replete with clear, pristine beaches, hills, shrines, lighthouses, et al. The must visit places in this beach abode are the Papanasam Beach, the Varkala Beach, the Kappil Lake and lighthouses in the area. One can treat oneself to a number of adventure sports like paragliding and parasailing in Varkala.23. Ponmudi, Kerala:
Set in the lap of the Western Ghats, this offbeat destination is packed with tea plantations, lush green hills, streams and waterfalls. One can attempt mountain climbing at Ponmudi on the Agasthayarkoodam, the highest peak in the area at 1868 feet. Pay a visit to the deer park and enjoy the sunrise to feel at one with nature at Ponmudi.
24. Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh : The place where it all began…
Bhimbetka is home to the beginning of the South Asian Stone Age. Bhimbetka was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, and it contains the earliest rock paintings, as old as 30,000 years old, the first proof of human life in the Indian subcontinent.
October to April is the best time to visit Bhimbetka. These offbeat caves are closed during the monsoons.
Bhimbetka is home to the beginning of the South Asian Stone Age. Bhimbetka was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, and it contains the earliest rock paintings, as old as 30,000 years old, the first proof of human life in the Indian subcontinent.25. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh: Unlittered by the footsteps of time
Mandu is a city so beautifully dotted with marvelous architectural ruins that it will allow you to be mesmerized by its sheer beauty and historical divinity. Mandu claims to be home to the oldest erected monument of India, and is a shrine to the true love of Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati.
26. Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh: ‘Gorge’ous.
This one is for the bucket list, folks! Christened the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, this is THE place to go to. Indulge yourself with a boatride on a moonlit night on the Narmada river with marble gorges of Bhedaghattowering up to 100 feet on either side, and build a memory for a lifetime.
November to May is the perfect time to visit this gorgeous offbeat destination.
This one is for the bucket list, folks! Christened the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, this is THE place to go to. Indulge yourself with a boatride on a moonlit night on the Narmada river with marble gorges of Bhedaghattowering up to 100 feet on either side, and build a memory for a lifetime.27. Lonar, Maharashtra: Lone Ranger
The quaint little town of Lonar is huddled around the lake which was formed due to a meteorite that hit this spot 52,000 years ago. It is the only salt water lake formed in basaltic rock in the world, making it a hot-spot for scientific research. There are a number of temples in Lonar too, which further the beauty and importance of this town.
October to March is the best time to visit this offbeat beauty.
The quaint little town of Lonar is huddled around the lake which was formed due to a meteorite that hit this spot 52,000 years ago. It is the only salt water lake formed in basaltic rock in the world, making it a hot-spot for scientific research. There are a number of temples in Lonar too, which further the beauty and importance of this town.28. Tadoba, Maharashtra: Wildcats!
Tadoba is one of those unexplored places in India that are abundantly blessed with plenty of wildlife- flora and fauna. The main attractions in Tadoba are the Tadoba National Park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Tadoba lake, Erai dam, Moharli and Khosla village. Well-protected and preserved well, Tadoba is one of the best kept Tiger Reserves in India.
October to March are the best months to visit this offbeat wildlife sanctuary. The summers are hot and sultry while the monsoons make it difficult for explorers.
Tadoba is one of those unexplored places in India that are abundantly blessed with plenty of wildlife- flora and fauna. The main attractions in Tadoba are the Tadoba National Park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Tadoba lake, Erai dam, Moharli and Khosla village. Well-protected and preserved well, Tadoba is one of the best kept Tiger Reserves in India.29. Bhandardara, Maharashtra: Serenity revisited!
Bhandardara, neatly hidden away in the Sahyadris, is one of those offbeat weekend getaways from Mumbaithat’ll help you catch your breath after a gruesome week in the city. The Sahyadris, known for the cool climates and the lush, leafy beauty is just what Bhandardara is like. Come, chill in the little village, sip some cold drinks by the waterfalls and nurse your tired body and soul.
June to March. Visit the village in the monsoons and enjoy the trip thoroughly
Bhandardara, neatly hidden away in the Sahyadris, is one of those offbeat weekend getaways from Mumbaithat’ll help you catch your breath after a gruesome week in the city. The Sahyadris, known for the cool climates and the lush, leafy beauty is just what Bhandardara is like. Come, chill in the little village, sip some cold drinks by the waterfalls and nurse your tired body and soul.30. Kamshet, Maharashtra: My dream is to fly, over the rainbow so high
Come to the hills, ease into the idyllic surroundings, and if you’re an adrenaline junkie, paraglide! Kamshet is home to flying and paragliding schools, so make the most of it. Explore the little villages when you are on this particular holiday. The main attractions here are Bhairi caves, Bhedsa caves, Khondeshwar temple, Pavana lake and Shinde wadi hills.
September to April are ideal for a trip to Kamshet. Choose a time with no rains if you’re visiting with a view toparaglide.
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