top 12 least-discovered places in India.
1. Auli, Uttarakhand
Most of us think that skiing is something you do in the snow-capped mountains of France, Switzerland, Canada, or Australia. But you would be surprised to know India has its own ski destination at Auli. Located in Uttarakhand, Auli is a part of the Himalayan Mountains and is perfect for skiing as well as trekking. Even if you are a novice or an experienced professional, this snow-covered hill station will definitely give you a fun skiing experience.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
2. Majuli, Assam
Did you know that the biggest river island in the world is in India? Yes, it is true! Head to this beautiful island district of Majuli in Assam to revel in the breathtaking beauty of this place! Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, this place is rich in natural beauty and has an interesting culture. Apart from exploring the place, you would also get to enjoy the culture of the tribes as well as indulge in some exciting festivals.
Best Time to Visit: October to February (winter)
Nearest Airport: Jorhat Airport
3. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
For most of us, snowfall in India is restricted to some northern parts of the country. But you would be surprised to know that there is a little hill station in South India where you could experience snowfall. Lambasingi is situated in Andhra Pradesh and is 100 km away from Vishakhapatnam. The temperature here in winter is below 10 degrees Celsius, and it is cold even during the summer. Gorgeous waterfalls, sprawling coffee, and pepper plantations, and beautiful hills for trekking and camping await you at Lambasingi.
Best Time to Visit: November to February (Winter)
Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam Airport
4. Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra
Goa is considered to be the ultimate beach destination in India. However, if you want a great beach experience without the overwhelming crowd that you would find in Goa, you must head to Tarkali Beach in Maharashtra. This beach is situated in Singhudurg District of Maharashtra and is among the best white sand beaches in the Konkan region. Apart from the long coastline and pristine waters, Tarkali is famous for its water adventure sports. You can go boating and watch dolphins, or indulge in scuba diving, kayaking, banana boat riding, jet skiing, etc.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport (Goa Airport)
5. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
The northeastern part of India is usually ignored when it comes to tourism. However, it is in this part of the country that you will find the rarest of the rarest gems of nature. Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is one such beauty. Located 10,000 feet above sea level, this place is full of lakes, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls that would not fail to take your breath away. The Sela Pass, Tawang Monastery, Gorichen Peak, Taktsang Gompa, Nuranang Waterfalls, etc., are some places you must not miss in Tawang.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to October
Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport (in Tezpur, Assam)
6. Querim Beach, Goa
Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, and Anjuman Beach are some beaches that come to mind when we think about Goa. While these beaches are happening and awesome, they are way too crowded, especially during the peak seasons. If you crave peace and tranquility or want to spend alone time with your partner, you must head to Querim or Keri Beach in Goa. It lies in the northernmost part of Goa and has a long stretch of sand where you can walk or relax with your partner. There are small shacks on the beach that serve amazing seafood. So, if you are looking for a serene spot in Goa, there is no better place than Querim Beach.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
7. Patan, Gujarat
While Gujarat is known for Ahmedabad and Baroda, there is one town you must definitely visit in this state. It is an ancient town founded in 745 AD and is home to some interesting forts and monuments. The one monument you must visit here is Rani Ki Vav, a unique water resource and storage system as well as a fine example of Khajuraho-style craftsmanship. Patan is also popular for Patola sarees, and you must also take this chance to visit the Patola saree-making unit.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhai Patel International Airport (110 kilometers away)
8. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
It is a well-preserved forest grove on Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hill. It is a nature lover’s haven and a dream-come-true spot for photography enthusiasts. Steeped in legends, this unspoiled and sacred eco-region is a must-visit for its ethereal beauty, medicinal herbs, and, mostly, the enigmatic vibe that fills the air.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Nearest Airport: Umroi Airport (90 kilometers away)
If you are in Mumbai or Pune and are looking for a place for a weekend retreat, there is no better place than Kamshet. Located in the district of Pune, this small town is away from the main city, and, hence, beautiful and peaceful. You can visit here the Kondeshwar temple, Pawna Lake, Bhairi caves, Bedsa caves, etc. Apart from all this, it is a great place to try paragliding. So, if you love a little adventure, visit Kamshet this weekend with your friends and family.
Best Time to Visit: December to February
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport (over 40 kilometers away)
10. Lepchajagat, West Bengal
Darjeeling is considered to be one of the major honeymoon destinations in India. While it is a romantic place, close to it is Lepchajagat, a small village as beautiful as Darjeeling without any frills. If you are looking for a peaceful, quiet place to spend some quality time with yourself or your partner, you will find Lepchajagat ideal. This small village is in a densely forested area, from which you can get splendid views of the Kanchenjunga peaks. Apart from enjoying the beauty of the place and the unique wildlife, you also get to spend some serene moments without any distractions here.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (85 kilometers away)
11. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
Mandu is one of the country’s most iconic historical attractions, celebrated for its medieval architectural marvels reflecting Hindu and Islamic designs. Such is its significance and splendor that it is acknowledged as Central India’s Hampi. You can look forward to admiring a wealth of monuments, palaces, mosques, tombs, and forts, to name a few.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Ahilyabai Holkar Airport (95 kilometers away)
12. Hogenakkal, Karnataka
If you have always dreamt of visiting Niagara Falls but never could because of different reasons, you need not be disappointed. This is because India is home to what you can call the Niagara of India, the Hogenakkal Falls. Located in Hogenakkal, Karnataka, there are multiple streams of waterfalls from the Kaveri River, and the sight is absolutely mesmerizing. Besides this beautiful waterfall, Hogenakkal is famous for Melagiri Hills, Mettur Dam, Pennagram Village, etc. If you want to experience being one with nature, Hogenakkal is where you must head.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Nearest Airport: Bangalore International Airport (150 kilometers away)
Conclusion
These are just a few of the unique or lesser-known destinations in India. The country is filled with such beautiful spots that remain unexplored. So, this holiday season, let us make a promise to ourselves to visit these places and give them the due they deserve.
Your blog is very informative, thank you for writing it. These are really beautiful places.
Ah, some of those beaches and incredible places look so stunning. I never expected to come across such secret gems. We are planning a trip to India asap and this post couldn’t be more useful! Thank you so much!!