India is a lovely and buzzing country, well known is its large cities, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and friendly people. While the larger cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore and a few UNESCO heritage sites like the Taj Mahal are commonly known among tourists, many offbeat destinations in India are equally mesmerizing and worth a visit.
In this article, we will discuss 10 offbeat destinations in India where you can go on your next vacation. These less-visited places will give you a taste of India’s rich culture and equally beautiful nature. They are ideal for spending some quiet and peaceful time with your friends and family or just by yourself.
Table of Contents
Chopta, Uttarakhand
Chopta is a beautiful hill station in the Garhwal region of the state of Uttarakhand in India.
It is surrounded by lush woods and has beautiful views of the Himalayas, including the peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. There are also some rare birds and animals in the area, like the Himalayan monal and the musk deer. Trekking, camping, and watching birds are all common things to do in Chopta.
Visitors to Chopta find its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere very refreshing, which makes it an ideal place to rest, relax and rejuvenate yourself.
- Places to see: Tungnath Temple, Deoria Tal Lake, Chandrashila Peak.
- Nearest city: Rudraprayag (approx. 40 km)
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Chopta is from March to May and September to November.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 220 km). The nearest railway station is in Haridwar (approx. 215 km). From there, one can take a bus or taxi to reach Chopta.
- Things to do:
- Trek to Tungnath Temple
- Camping in the serene forests
- Watch the sunrise from Chandrashila Peak
- Take a dip in Deoria Tal Lake
- Birdwatching
Important information from Uttarakhand Tourism about tourism to Chopta.
Pelling, Sikkim
Pelling is a serene hill town in the western part of Sikkim.
Every year, many tourists from India and abroad travel to Pelling to get a panoramic view of Kanchenjunga mountain, the third-highest mountain in the world.
The Pemayangtse Monastery and the Sangachoeling Monastery are two of the most important Buddhist temples in the town. People who visit the area can go hiking, watch birds, and learn about the region’s rich culture and past. The Pemayangtse Monastery, the Rabdentse Ruins, and the Khecheopalri Lake are some of the best places to visit in Pelling.
We had earlier written about our experience of visiting Pelling, which is an amazing offbeat destination in India. Do read it.
- Places to see: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Khecheopalri Lake
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Pelling is from March to June and September to December.
- Nearest city: Gangtok (approx. 120 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal (approx. 160 km). The nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri (approx. 135 km). From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Pelling.
- Things to do:
- Visit Pemayangtse Monastery
- Take in the views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range
- Visit Rabdentse Ruins
- Visit Khecheopalri Lake
- Trek to Sanga Choeling Monastery
Important information from Silkkim Tourism about tourism to Pelling.
Agumbe, Karnataka:
Do you love rain and is monsoon your favorite season? Then you will love Agumbe, a small village in Karnataka, which is officially the second rainiest place in India!
Known as the “Cherrapunji of South India“, Agumbe is loved by nature lovers for its lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls, including the Jogigundi and Barkana Falls, this destination is a great place to explore the beauty of the Indian wilderness.
Agumbe lies on the Western Ghats, which is rich in flora and fauna that includes several species of exotic wildlife, including king cobras, Indian bison, and Malabar giant squirrels. The stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic trekking trails of Agumbe also make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.
Whether you want to explore the rainforest, spot exotic wildlife, or simply relax amid nature, Agumbe is the perfect destination for an offbeat and unforgettable experience.
- Places to see: Jogigundi Falls, Barkana Falls, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
- Best time to visit: October to February. Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September may cause landslides and disrupt travel.
- Nearest city: Udupi (approx. 55 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (approx. 100 km). The nearest railway station is Udupi. From there, one can take a bus or taxi to reach Agumbe.
- Things to do:
- Visit Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
- Trek to Jogigundi Falls
- Visit Barkana Falls
- Spot exotic wildlife like king cobras, Indian bison, and Malabar giant squirrels
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.
Important information from Karnataka Tourism about Agumbe.
Gavi, Kerala
Gavi is a small village located in the Pathanamthitta district of the state of Kerala in Southern India. Its primary attractions are the serene forests, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. If you love nature and enjoy spending time with it, then you just can’t miss a vacation in Gavi.
The Pathanamthitta district where Gavi is located is home to several important wildlife reserves, including the Periyar National Park and the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. On a clear day, you will be able to spot several majestic animals like tigers, leopards, and elephants and a large variety of rare birds near Gavi. You will spot some other exotic ones like lion-tailed macaques too.
The stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic trekking trails of Gavi also make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers as well.
- Places to see: Gavi Lake, Sabarimala Temple, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar National Park
Best time to visit: October to March. Avoid traveling during the monsoon season due to the risk of landslides and road closures. - Nearest city: Kochi (200 km)
- How to reach: Gavi is located around 200 km from Kochi. Visitors can take a taxi or a bus from Kochi to reach Gavi.
- Things to do:
- Trekking
- Camping
- Birdwatching
- Boating in Gavi Lake
- Visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Important information from Kerala Tourism about Gavi.
Majuli Island, Assam
Majuli is a river island on the Brahmaputra River located in the northeastern state of Assam in India.
Apart from holding the distinction of being the largest river island in the world, Majuli is well-known among travel lovers for its unique culture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant festivals.
When you visit Majuli, you can explore the local villages, learn about the traditional way of life, and attend the Raas Festival, a traditional dance festival that celebrates the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. The region is also home to several important monasteries, including the Kamalabari Satra and the Auniati Satra.
You can also enjoy adventure activities like fishing, Kayaking, and river rafting. The Majuli Island Bird Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds. You can easily spend a day watching birds like the greater adjutant stork, Siberian crane, and pelican over there.
- Places to see: Kamalabari Satra, Auniati Satra, Majuli Island Bird Sanctuary
- Best time to visit: November to March. Avoid traveling during the monsoon season from June to September due to the risk of floods and road closures.
- Nearest city: Jorhat (20 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport. Visitors can take a taxi or a bus from Jorhat to reach Majuli.
- Things to do:
- Explore the local villages
- Attend the Raas Festival
- Visit the monasteries
- River rafting
- Kayaking
More information about Majuli Island.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also known as ‘Kodagu‘, is a hill station located in the Western Ghats in the state of Karnataka in India. It is famous for its coffee plantations, misty hills, and stunning waterfalls. The coffee plantations of Coorg produce some of the finest coffee in the world. I recommend that you take a coffee plantation tour to learn about the history and process of coffee production in Coorg.
Coorg is also a popular destination for adventure seekers. You can go trekking or zip-lining and even camp in nature. The stunning landscapes and scenic trekking trails of Coorg also make it an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway.
This region is also home to several important temples, including the Omkareshwara Temple and the Bhagamandala Temple. You can spot several exotic species of animals, including elephants and wild boars, at the Dubare Elephant Camp.
Coorg is a destination that offers something for everyone. If you are looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway in the lap of nature, then Coorg is the ideal offbeat destination for you.
- Places to see: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Raja’s Seat, Omkareshwara Temple, Bhagamandala Temple.
- Best time to visit: October to March. Avoid visiting Coorg during the monsoon season from June to September due to the risk of landslides and road closures. Additionally, during the winter months, some roads may be closed due to heavy fog.
- Nearest city: Mysore (117 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport. Visitors can also reach Coorg by road from Bangalore (260 km), Mysore, or Mangalore.
- Things to do:
- Trekking
- Coffee plantation tours
- Visit the waterfalls
- Visit the temples
- River rafting
Important information from Karnataka Tourism about Coorg.
Kanatal, Uttarakhand
Kanatal is a charming hill station located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand near the town of Mussoorie.
Image credit: Mike Prince, Flickr
Kanatal offers a stunning view of the Himalayan ranges. If you want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, then Kanatal is just right for you.
You can explore the local markets, visit the famous Surkanda Devi Temple, or simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the town. Some of the best places to see in Kanatal include the Surkanda Devi Temple, Kodia Jungle, and Kaudia Forest. The nearest city is Mussoorie, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- Places to see: Surkanda Devi Temple, Kodia Jungle, Kaudia Forest.
- Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.
- Nearest city: Mussoorie (approx. 30 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 90 km). The nearest railway station is in Dehradun. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Kanatal.
- Things to do:
- Visit Surkanda Devi Temple
- Trek through Kodia Jungle and Kaudia Forest
- Spend a peaceful time watching stunning views of the Himalayas
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town
- Explore the local markets
Important information from Uttarakhand Tourism about tourism to Kanatal.
Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh
Bhimbetka is an archaeological site located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. You will find some awe-inspiring prehistoric rock paintings in Bhimbetka that date back to the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods. These are evidence of the presence of humans in India in the Stone Age.
If you want to learn about the rich history of India and get thrilled to experience the feeling of being present where the ancient men used to live in the past, then a visit to Bhimbetka is a must for you.
The paintings depict scenes from daily life, including hunting, dancing, and religious rituals. Some of the best places to see in Bhimbetka include the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Bhojpur Temple, and Sanchi Stupa.
- Places to see: Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Bhojpur Temple, Sanchi Stupa
- Best time to visit: October to March.
- Nearest city: Bhopal (approx. 45 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal. The nearest railway station is in Bhopal. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Bhimbetka.
- Things to do:
- Explore the prehistoric rock paintings at Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
- Visit the Bhojpur Temple and Sanchi Stupa
- Learn about the rich history of the region
- Enjoy the natural beauty of the area
- Explore the local markets
Important information from Madhya Pradesh Tourism about Bhimbetka.
Zanskar Valley, Ladakh
The Zanskar Valley lies in a remote area in the Himalayan ranges in the Kargil district of the Union Territory of Ladakh in India.
It is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty that can make anyone awestruck. You can also experience the traditional Tibetan culture, and engage in adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and skiing. If you love adventures, you are going to fall in love with the Zanskar Valley.
You can visit several important Buddhist monasteries, including the Karsha Monastery and the Phuktal Monastery when you visit the Zanskar Valley and visit the local villages to know about the unique culture of the region. You can also go hiking through the Himalayas to experience its rugged beauty and wilderness.
- Places to see: Karsha Monastery, Phuktal Monastery, Zanskar River.
- Best time to visit: June to September. Due to heavy snowfall, the region is inaccessible during winter months from November to March.
- Nearest city: Leh (approx. 240 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. The nearest railway station is in Jammu Tawi. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Zanskar Valley.
- Things to do:
- Visit Karsha Monastery and Phuktal Monastery
- Trek through the Himalayas
- Experience the traditional Tibetan culture
- Enjoy adventure activities like river rafting and skiing
- Take in the stunning views of the Zanskar River
Important information about Zanskar Valley.
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a town located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It is known for its lush greenery and stunning waterfalls, including the Nohkalikai Falls, which is the tallest plunge waterfall in India.
Cherrapunji was once known as the wettest place on earth, receiving an average annual rainfall of over 11,000 mm. However, it has now been surpassed by nearby Mawsynram as the wettest place on Earth.
Cherrapunji is famous for its stunning waterfalls, including the Nohkalikai Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Visitors can also explore the Living Root Bridges, which are a unique example of bioengineering. The bridges are made by weaving the roots of rubber trees across streams and rivers. The bridges can support the weight of several people and are a testament to the region’s unique engineering skills.
Apart from its stunning natural beauty, Cherrapunji is also known for its unique culture and traditions. The region is home to the Khasi tribe. You can explore the local villages to learn about the tribe’s way of life. Visitors can also try the local cuisine, which includes dishes like Jadoh (rice cooked with pork or chicken), Dohneiiong (pork cooked with black sesame seeds and ginger), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish).
- Places to see: Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Living Root Bridges.
- Best time to visit: September to May. Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September may cause landslides and disrupt travel.
- Nearest city: Shillong (approx. 55 km)
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (approx. 145 km). The nearest railway station is Guwahati. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Cherrapunji.
- Things to do:
- Visit Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India
- Trek to Living Root Bridges
- Visit Mawsmai Cave and Arwah Cave
- Explore the local markets
- Enjoy the lush greenery and stunning waterfalls
Important information about Cherrapunji.
Which of these offbeat destinations in India did you like?
India is a country that is full of hidden gems and offbeat destinations waiting to be explored. From the misty hills of Coorg to the stunning waterfalls of Cherrapunji, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers.
Plan your next vacation to any of these offbeat destinations in India, pack your bags, and get started. I am sure that you will collect memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.
