Top Places in India You Must Visit for a Unique Travel Experience
India is full of wonders! From mountains and forests to beaches and historic towns, there are countless places in India you must visit, beyond Goa, Jaipur, and Manali, waiting to be explored.
Table of Contents
Introduction
India is a land of diverse landscapes, cultures, and hidden treasures waiting to be explored. While popular tourist destinations attract large crowds, there are several offbeat locations that offer unique experiences away from the crowded life. From spotless beaches and dense forests to high-altitude deserts and charming villages, these hidden places provide a perfect mix of adventure, tranquility, and cultural richness. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker, this list of unexplored destinations in India will inspire your next journey.
Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna is a peaceful beach town in Karnataka, offering a perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. Known for its serene beaches and ancient temples, it is one of the places in India you must visit for a relaxing getaway. Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and the Mahabaleshwar Temple are key attractions.
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Dabolim Airport (Goa), 140 km away.
By Train: Gokarna Road Railway Station is 10 km from the town.
By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Goa, Mangalore, and Bangalore.
Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Khajjiar is a scenic hill station with lush meadows and snow-capped mountains. It is one of the places in India you must visit for breathtaking landscapes, adventure activities like paragliding, and the serene Khajjiar Lake, perfect for boating and horse riding.
How To Reach:
By Air: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala), 122 km away.
By Train: Pathankot Railway Station, 95 km away.
By Road: Connected via taxis and buses from Dalhousie and Chamba.
Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Karnataka
If you thought Karnataka was only about Hampi’s ruins, think again! Just a short drive away, you’ll find the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, home to around 120 sloth bears along with leopards, jackals, and wild boars. Visit between October and February for the best wildlife sightings.
How To Reach:
By Air: Hubli Airport, 150 km away.
By Train: Hospet Railway Station, 15 km away.
By Road: Accessible by car or bus from Hampi and Hospet.
Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Whether you’re trekking or taking the ropeway from Joshimath, this is one of the places in India you must visit for an exciting winter adventure, best enjoyed between December and February.
How To Reach:
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 286 km away.
By Train: Haridwar Railway Station, 273 km away.
By Road: Take a taxi or bus from Rishikesh or Joshimath, then a cable car to Auli.
Gurez Valley, Kashmir
A remote paradise in Kashmir, Gurez Valley is known for its stunning landscapes, gushing rivers, and traditional wooden houses. For trekking and experiencing the nomadic lifestyle, it is one of the places in India you must visit, especially between June and September.
How To Reach:
By Air: Srinagar Airport, 123 km away.
By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 330 km away.
By Road: A scenic drive from Srinagar via Bandipora.
Majuli, Assam
The world’s largest river island, Majuli, is a hidden cultural gem in Assam. Explore its monasteries, learn about the indigenous Mishing tribe, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this place and is one of the most offbeat places in India you must visit October to March and this is the perfect time to go.
How To Reach:
By Air: Jorhat Airport, 20 km away.
By Train: Jorhat Railway Station, 14 km away.
By Road: Take a ferry from Jorhat’s Nimati Ghat to Majuli Island.
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Known as the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is a hidden beauty of Meghalaya, featuring bamboo houses, stunning waterfalls, and the famous living root bridges. It offers an authentic experience of local Khasi culture, making it a must-visit destination for nature and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
How To Reach:
By Air: Shillong Airport, 78 km away.
By Train: Guwahati Railway Station, 180 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Shillong and Cherrapunji.
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
A high-altitude desert with rugged landscapes and ancient monasteries, Spiti Valley is perfect for adventure seekers. The valley offers mesmerizing views, thrilling road trips, and a rich Tibetan culture. Key attractions include Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, and the remote village of Kibber.
How To Reach:
By Air: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), 250 km away.
By Train: Shimla Railway Station, 420 km away.
By Road: Manali to Kaza route (June-September) or Shimla to Kaza (year-round).
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a mesmerizing town known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich Buddhist culture. Home to the famous Tawang Monastery, one of the largest in the world, it offers stunning views of snow-clad mountains. The journey to Tawang is adventurous, but the destination is truly rewarding.
How To Reach:
By Air: Tezpur Airport, 317 km away.
By Train: Naharlagun Railway Station, 448 km away.
By Road: Drive from Guwahati or Tezpur via Bomdila.
Champaner, Gujarat
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Champaner is a historical marvel featuring Indo-Islamic architecture, ancient stepwells, and the grand Jama Masjid. Nestled in the Pavagadh Hills, it’s a paradise for history buffs and nature lovers, offering scenic views and insights into India’s medieval past.
How To Reach:
By Air: Vadodara Airport, 50 km away.
By Train: Champaner Road Railway Station, 25 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Vadodara.
Chopta, Uttarakhand
A serene hill station, Chopta is a trekker’s paradise, leading to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak. Surrounded by lush meadows and stunning Himalayan views, it is one of the places in India you must visit for an offbeat Himalayan experience.
How To Reach:
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 225 km away.
By Train: Haridwar Railway Station, 200 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Rishikesh and Rudraprayag.
Nubra Valley, Ladakh
Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” Nubra Valley offers mesmerizing landscapes, monasteries, and Bactrian camel rides. If you’re exploring Ladakh, this is one of the places in India you must visit to experience the high-altitude desert’s unique charm.
How To Reach:
By Air: Leh Airport, 120 km away.
By Road: Travel via the scenic Khardung La Pass from Leh.
Sandakphu, West Bengal
The highest peak in West Bengal, Sandakphu offers panoramic views of four of the world’s highest peaks. A trekker’s delight, it is one of the places in India you must visit to witness breathtaking sunrises and lush mountain trails.
How To Reach:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport, 90 km away.
By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, 95 km away.
By Road: Trek from Manebhanjan or hire a 4×4 vehicle.
Halebid, Karnataka
A historic town showcasing the grand architecture of the Hoysala Dynasty, Halebid is a must-visit for history lovers. With its intricately carved temples, this is one of the places in India you must visit for a glimpse into South India’s ancient heritage.
How To Reach:
By Air: Mangalore Airport, 168 km away.
By Train: Hassan Railway Station, 27 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Bangalore and Mysore.
Chembra Peak, Kerala
Famous for its heart-shaped lake, Chembra Peak is a scenic trekking destination in Kerala. One of the places in India you must visit, it offers mesmerizing views of the Western Ghats and a refreshing escape into nature.
How To Reach:
By Air: Calicut Airport, 92 km away.
By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station, 79 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Wayanad or Kalpetta.
Kanatal, Uttarakhand
A hidden gem near Mussoorie, Kanatal offers tranquility, adventure, and breathtaking Himalayan views. It is one of the places in India you must visit for camping, trekking, and star-gazing in a peaceful environment.
How To Reach:
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 92 km away.
By Train: Dehradun Railway Station, 78 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Mussoorie and Rishikesh.
Damro, Arunachal Pradesh
Home to India’s longest hanging bridge, Damro offers a glimpse into tribal culture and traditional bamboo houses. For an offbeat experience, it is one of the places in India you must visit, best explored between October and April.
How To Reach:
By Air: Dibrugarh Airport, 80 km away.
By Train: Murkongselek Railway Station, 40 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Pasighat.
Kila Raipur, Punjab
Famous for its Rural Olympics, Kila Raipur showcases unique Punjabi sports and traditions. If you love cultural festivals, this is one of the places in India you must visit, especially in February during the games.
How To Reach:
By Air: Ludhiana Airport, 18 km away.
By Train: Ludhiana Railway Station, 20 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Ludhiana and Chandigarh.
Jawai, Rajasthan
Jawai is a lesser-known famous for its leopard population and luxurious tented accommodations. The Jawai Leopard Reserve offers exciting safari experiences, while the surrounding landscape features stunning granite hills and Jawai Bandh, making it a perfect blend of wildlife and rustic charm.
How To Reach:
By Air: Udaipur Airport, 150 km away.
By Train: Jawai Bandh Railway Station, 6 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Udaipur and Jodhpur.
Mainpat, Chhattisgarh
Often called the “Mini Tibet of India,” Mainpat is home to Tibetan settlements, picturesque waterfalls, and peaceful monasteries. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience Tibetan culture amidst lush greenery, rolling hills, and breathtaking sunset points.
How To Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport (Raipur), 360 km away.
By Train: Ambikapur Railway Station, 80 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Raipur and Bilaspur.
Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
A historical town with rich temple architecture, Lepakshi is famous for the Veerabhadra Temple and its hanging pillar. One of the places in India you must visit, it offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s ancient wonders.
How To Reach:
By Air: Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore), 100 km away.
By Train: Hindupur Railway Station, 15 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Bangalore.
Velas, Maharashtra
A coastal village known for its annual Turtle Festival, Velas is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. For a unique conservation experience, this is one of the places in India you must visit, especially between March and April.
How To Reach:
By Air: Pune Airport, 200 km away.
By Train: Khed Railway Station, 50 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Mumbai and Pune.
Moodbidri, Karnataka
Often called the “Jain Kashi of the South,” Moodbidri is known for its beautiful Jain temples, including the 600-year-old Thousand Pillar Temple. Surrounded by waterfalls and lush greenery, it offers a peaceful spiritual retreat for visitors interested in history and religion.
How To Reach:
By Air: Mangalore Airport, 34 km away.
By Train: Mangalore Railway Station, 37 km away.
By Road: Buses and taxis from Mangalore and Udupi.
Conclusion
India is a treasure trove of hidden gems, offering everything from serene valleys and pristine beaches to ancient temples and thrilling wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or tranquility, these offbeat destinations promise unforgettable experiences. Step off the beaten path and explore India’s lesser-known wonders for a truly unique journey!
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only and may change over time. Always verify travel details and conditions before planning your trip to places in india you must visit.
By roamworld
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Where should I travel next in India?
It depends on your preferences! If you love beaches, places in India you must visit include Gokarna or the Andaman Islands. For mountains, explore Spiti Valley or Ziro Valley. Wildlife lovers can visit Jawai or Daroji Bear Sanctuary. If you enjoy history, head to Champaner or Halebid for a cultural experience.
What are some offbeat places in India you must visit?
Some hidden gems among the places in India you must visit include Damro (Arunachal Pradesh), Gurez Valley (Kashmir), Moodbidri (Karnataka), Mainpat (Chhattisgarh), and Velas (Maharashtra). These offbeat destinations offer untouched beauty, rich traditions, and unique cultural experiences away from the usual tourist trails.
Where should I go in the summer of 2025?
For a cool escape, places in India you must visit include Auli, Chopta, Sandakphu, and Tawang. If you prefer the coast, Mawlynnong and Majuli offer a peaceful summer retreat with stunning landscapes and serene environments, perfect for relaxation away from the crowds.
Where do Indians travel the most?
Popular places in India you must visit include Goa, Manali, Shimla, Kerala, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh. For spiritual journeys, pilgrimage sites like Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Tirupati attract millions of travelers annually, offering a blend of history, culture, and divine experiences.
What are some budget-friendly places in India you must visit?
To explore places in India you must visit on a budget, travel by trains or buses instead of flights, stay in hostels or homestays, and dine at local eateries. Using budget-friendly transport like auto-rickshaws and traveling during the off-season can also help you save money while enjoying incredible experiences.
What are the best cultural places in India you must visit?
India is rich in culture! Some places in India you must visit for cultural experiences are Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) for spiritual rituals, Kolkata (West Bengal) for Durga Puja, Madurai (Tamil Nadu) for Dravidian temples, Jaipur (Rajasthan) for Rajput heritage, and Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh) for ancient sculptures.
What are the best wildlife places in India you must visit?
If you love wildlife, places in India you must visit include Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand) for tigers, Kaziranga National Park (Assam) for rhinos, Sundarbans (West Bengal) for mangrove forests, Ranthambore (Rajasthan) for big cats, and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) for elephants.
What are the best spiritual places in India you must visit?
For a soul-refreshing experience, places in India you must visit include Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) for yoga retreats, Amritsar (Punjab) for the Golden Temple, Bodh Gaya (Bihar) for Buddhist enlightenment, Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh) for temple darshan, and Haridwar (Uttarakhand) for the sacred Ganga Aarti.