Top 12 Best Hidden Gems of India you must visit

India is full of isolated or unexplored destinations that offer unique experiences, ranging from untouched natural beauty and vibrant culture to calm landscapes, and historical ruins. These Hidden Gems of India are found all over the country and offer opportunities for adventure, loneliness, and cultural immersion.

Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh, Tirthan Valley in Himachal Pradesh, and Majuli Island in Assam provide tranquil escapes, While Spiti Valley and Nubra Valley in Ladakh attract visitors who want rough terrain and spiritual connections. These Hidden Gems of India are usually overlooked by the tourists.

The picturesque monasteries of Spiti, The pristine beaches of Gokarna, and The historic remains of Hampi let visitors experience India’s variation outside of the mainstream. Each Hidden Gems of India has its own story, whether it’s about local traditions, unspoiled wildlife, or the distinct landscapes that make them so special.

Best Hidden Gems of India you must visit before die:

These destinations allow tourists to explore the country in a less marketed manner, providing more authentic and serene travel experiences. Here are some of the most unique Hidden Gems of India that are yet to be discovered.

1. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh (Hidden Gems of India)

This monastery, perched on a hilltop, is the second largest in the world, after Lhasa in Tibet.

Tawang is a lovely town in northeastern India, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests. You can visit Tawang Monastery to experience spiritual emotions and breathtaking scenery or explore Sela Pass, which is at an elevation of 13,700 feet and offers beautiful views of the snow-covered mountains.

The town is renowned for its Buddhist culture, with the Tawang Monastery serving as the main attraction. You can also trek to Madhuri Lake (named after the Bollywood star, as a film was shot here) or visit Bap Teng Kang Waterfall for a peaceful vacation in nature. The best time to visit is from March to October.

2. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh (Hidden Gems of India)

Ziro Valley is a stunning, untouched gem in Arunachal Pradesh. Ziro is known for its green rice fields, tranquil scenery, and vibrant Apatani tribal culture, and it feels like you’re entering a world unspoiled by civilization. The best time to visit is from September to March.

Activities to do:

• Visit the Apatani Tribal Villages to learn about their unique culture, especially their unique facial tattoos.
• Trek through the rice fields, surrounded by scenic mountains.
• Attend the Ziro Festival of Music, an annual event that brings international and local performers together to play.
• Explore the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is rich in wildlife and provides excellent opportunities for walking and bird watching.

3. Majuli, Assam (Hidden Gems of India)

Majuli is a large island on the Brahmaputra River. It is both picturesque and culturally significant, with multiple Vaishnavite monasteries (Satras) and lush wetlands. The best time to visit is from October to March.

Things visitors can do:

• You can visit the Satras, which are spiritual and cultural centers. They are rich in art, dance, music, and artisan traditions, or take a boat ride along the Brahmaputra River to see the river island from various angles.
• You can experience the renowned Mishing Tribe culture, with traditional weaving practices and celebrations, or explore Majuli Craft Village, which is famous for its pottery, mask making, and traditional Assamese crafts. The island is also renowned for birdwatching, as it provides a vital habitat for migratory birds.

4. Gokarna, Karnataka (Hidden Gems of India)

Gokarna is a peaceful coastal town that provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of Goa. The town is renowned for its gorgeous beaches, which are less crowded, as well as its historical significance. Visitors can discover Kudle Beach and Half Moon Beach for a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere or Visit Mirjan Fort to see ancient structures set among lush greenery. It is a great destination for travelers looking to combine spirituality with relaxation. The best time to visit is from October to March.

5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti, often overshadowed by the more famous locations, is an isolated, high-altitude desert valley surrounded by high mountains. It is famous for its Buddhist monasteries, stunning landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere. The best time to visit is from June to September. You can enjoy a few activities such as

• Visitors can explore the Key Monastery, which sits on a hill and provides beautiful views of the valley, or visit Dhankar Monastery, a beautiful monastery constructed into a cliff with spectacular views of the Spiti River.
• One can also enjoy a cultural experience at Kaza, the district headquarters, and learn about the local Spitian lifestyle.
• You can trek to Chandratal Lake for its pristine blue water or hike through Pin Valley National Park, which is home to distinct wildlife such as the snow leopard and blue sheep.

6. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Mawlynnong, sometimes known as “Asia’s Cleanest Village,” is a peaceful and charming village in the East Khasi Hills. The village is renowned for its clean environment, which is maintained by people who live there. Mawlynnong offers visitors a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the Khasi people, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The best times to visit are March to June and September to November.

• Walk across the Living Root Bridges, which are unique natural bridges made by tree roots, some of which are over 500 years old.
• Visit the Mawlynnong Waterfall for a relaxing escape into nature.
• Take a nature walk to the Sky View Point, a bamboo structure that provides a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and Bangladesh across the border. These are some activities to do.

7. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Tirthan Valley, nestled in the Great Himalayan National Park, is a hidden gem with untouched beauty. This valley offers a perfect balance of nature, wildlife, and tranquility. This charming valley is renowned for its clean river, lush greenery, and stunning views of the Himalayas. It’s perfect for nature lovers and trekkers. March to June, and September to November are the ideal time to visit.

• Explore the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity or explore the local villages and experience natural Himachali life.
• You can go for fishing at the Tirthan River, which is one of India’s cleanest rivers and camp next to the river or stay in riverside cottages for a relaxing vacation.
• Trek to Raghupur Fort to get panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

8. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Chopta, often called “Mini Switzerland,” is a hidden gem in the Garhwal Himalayas. It’s an excellent destination for hikers, wildlife lovers, and people looking for a calm retreat. It’s a quieter alternative to Uttarakhand’s more touristy trekking locations. The best months to visit are March through June, and September through November.

• You can go to Chopta for birdwatching, as it is home to a diverse range of bird species, or experience the pristine beauty of Deoria Tal Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by trees and snow-capped peaks.
• Trek to Chandrashila Peak for breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas.

9. Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu

Dhanushkodi, located on the southern tip of India, is a lovely ghost town with a fascinating history. It offers a unusual experience with its abandoned structures, mystical vibes, and beautiful beaches where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean. The best Time to Visit is between October to March.

• Explore the ruins of Dhanushkodi, including old churches, railway stations, and homes abandoned after the 1964 cyclone.
• Take a boat ride to Rama Setu (Adam’s Bridge), a natural chain of sandbanks and small islands.
• Visit the Dhanushkodi Beach and enjoy views of the Palk Strait.

10. Hampi, Karnataka (Hidden Gems of India)

• Despite its fame, Hampi remains a hidden gem due to its less crowded nature compared to other historical sites in India. The historic ruins of Hampi, once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, are nestled between boulder-strewn terrain.
• Visit the ruins of Elephant Stables, placed against a stunning landscape of rocks, to make it an exceptional UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• You can also take a coracle trip down the Tungabhadra River and trek up to Hemakuta Hill to get panoramic views of the ruins.

11. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

While Kanha National Park is well-known for its tiger population, it is significantly less crowded than other national parks such as Ranthambore or Jim Corbett. The park’s natural beauty and various animals make it an ideal alternative destination for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. It’s an excellent site to observe tigers, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural environment.

Take a jeep safari to see tigers, leopards, and other wildlife, or enjoy bird watching, natural hikes, and the tranquility of the park.

12. Bundi, Rajasthan (Hidden Gems of India)

Bundi, a lovely city in Rajasthan, is a treasure trove of history and architecture nestled in the Aravalli Mountains. The city is dominated by the royal Bundi Fort and the stunning Taragarh Fort, both of which provide breathtaking views of the town and surrounding environment. Bundi is also known for its old stepwells, or baoris, which were previously important sources of water and offer a distinct charm to the city’s history. Nawal Sagar Lake, with its quiet environment, provides a peaceful escape, and Sukh Mahal, a lakeside mansion, contributes to the area’s charm. Bundi also has a traditional, small-town feel, with narrow lanes, colorful markets, and an overall old-world charm.

The Bundi Palace, located at the base of Taragarh, is well-known for its elaborate artwork and beautiful architecture. It has fewer tourists than the other major cities in Rajasthan, making it a more relaxed and serene destination.

CONCLUSION

India’s hidden gems offer a diverse range of experiences, from tranquil retreats in the mountains to culturally rich villages and remote wilderness areas. These locations often provide a sense of serenity and genuineness that many of the more popular tourist attractions lack. India’s lesser-known destinations are ideal for creating memorable, unique experiences for people wishing to get away from the crowds.

Whether you enjoy nature, adventure, or culture, India has a hidden gem waiting for you to discover its beauty and charm. The goal is to find them and enjoy the trip away from the familiar.

So, if you’re planning your next trip, consider visiting one of these hidden gems. You might uncover a side of India you didn’t expect!

FOR MORE TRAVEL BLOG VISIT @lgstravellers

FAQs