11 Beautiful Offbeat Places In India You Should Not Miss

"Looking to break free from the usual tourist routes? If you're in search of fresh experiences, India's lesser-known destinations provide an incredible escape. Leave behind the busy urban life and immerse yourself in unforgettable adventures. Uncover the hidden gems of this diverse country, away from the crowds, and discover unspoiled natural beauty and unique cultures, all while creating a treasure trove of new memories. Nowadays, an increasing number of travelers are seeking destinations that are not typically on the tourist map, and India's offbeat locales deliver both a tranquil retreat and cherished moments."

# Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

"Mawlynnong, nestled in the picturesque state of Meghalaya, stands as a top offbeat destination in India that you absolutely must explore. This enchanting village in North East India was honored with the title of 'Asia's Cleanest Village' in 2003, showcasing its commitment to eco-friendliness and offering valuable life lessons.

The town's natural beauty is a treat for the senses, with cascading waterfalls to visit, mysterious caves to explore, and, most notably, the opportunity to stroll across the extraordinary Living Roots Bridges. Crafted from the interwoven roots of trees, these bridges are truly a marvel to behold. But don't limit your adventure to just this charming village; embark on a backpacking journey across the entire Meghalaya region."

# Halebid, Karnataka

"Halebid, located in Karnataka, stands as one of South India's ancient temple towns. This hidden gem remains relatively untouched by tourist crowds, offering a serene and offbeat experience. Halebid, also known as Dwarasamudra, which translates to 'gateway to the seas,' served as the capital of the Hoysala Dynasty for approximately 150 years.

In the early 14th century, the town suffered a devastating attack by the armies of Malik Kafur, leading to its decline and ruin. Despite its ravaged state, the town's historical glory still shines brightly. Take your time to explore the captivating temple ruins of Halebid. You can enhance your journey by combining a visit to Belur and exploring the Jain monuments at Shravanabelagola."

# Chembra Peak, Kerala

"An exhilarating trekking expedition, Chembra Peak in Kerala stands out as one of India's finest offbeat destinations. Situated in the enchanting Wayanad district, this majestic peak rises to an elevation of 6,900 feet amidst the misty embrace of the Western Ghats. Chembra Peak holds a special place in the hearts of adventure enthusiasts and nature aficionados. To ensure the safety of trekkers and the conservation of wildlife, obtaining permission passes from the Forest Department is a mandatory step in the journey to the peak.

On your way to the summit, you'll encounter a heart-shaped lake known locally as Hridaya Saras, which never fails to captivate visitors with its beauty. From the peak itself, you can revel in breathtaking panoramic vistas."

# Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

"Ziro, located in the scenic state of Arunachal Pradesh, stands out as one of the most enchanting places in the region, offering beauty, serenity, and unforgettable experiences. This hidden gem, tucked away from the well-trodden tourist paths, ranks among India's most beautiful offbeat destinations.

In Ziro, the sky is adorned with fluffy white clouds, while vast stretches of lush greenery and rice fields spread as far as the eye can see. Adding to the charm, the warm and welcoming Apatani tribe greets you with their friendly smiles, offering a fascinating glimpse into their way of life. The Ziro Music Festival, in particular, provides an excellent opportunity to explore this magical place. So, don't just visit Ziro, immerse yourself in it as a local and savor every moment of this unique experience."

# Majuli, Assam

"As the largest river island globally, Majuli holds an irresistible allure and is a destination that should be on everyone's must-visit list at least once in their lifetime. Nestled along the banks of the Brahmaputra River, this expansive island spans over 421.65 square kilometers and ranks as a top destination in Assam.

Reaching Majuli requires taking a ferry from Jorhat, as the island is only accessible by water. Majuli stands as a strong candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Site status, owing to its unique culture and predominantly tribal population. Beyond its cultural richness, the island's festivals, cuisine, and tranquil charm are among its key highlights."

# Champaner – Pavagadh, Gujarat

"As a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Champaner is a true historical gem waiting to be explored. Nestled within the Pavagadh hills, it stands as one of the captivating offbeat destinations in Gujarat, offering a window into the past that allows you to vividly envision bygone eras.

The Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a captivating testament to the melding of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, spanning from the 8th to the 16th century. Among the ruins found here are agricultural structures, mosques, and a fortress. Once a significant religious shrine and pilgrimage site, it still retains its unique charm and intrigue despite its present state of disrepair."

# Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

"Khajjiar, nestled away from the well-trodden tourist paths of Himachal Pradesh, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This offbeat town has earned the moniker 'Mini Switzerland of India' and is a true beauty that remains relatively unexplored. With its breathtaking landscapes featuring hills, lakes, and meadows, Khajjiar exudes a tranquil and picturesque charm.

Here, you can indulge in trekking amidst the scenic surroundings or take leisurely strolls, both of which offer a blissful experience. Adventure enthusiasts can also partake in various thrilling activities such as paragliding, horse-riding, zorbing, and more. Khajjiar welcomes visitors throughout the year, with pleasant summers and snowy winters. When the hustle and bustle of city life become overwhelming, Khajjiar provides the perfect escape."

# Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

"Ladakh, renowned as an offbeat destination and a haven for adventure enthusiasts, boasts its own unique charm. Among the lesser-known places in Ladakh, Hemis stands as a hidden gem, enveloped by majestic snow-capped peaks. Don't miss a visit to the Hemis Gompa, a stunning monastery that warrants a leisurely exploration.

For a thrilling experience, venture into the Hemis National Park, which serves as the habitat for the elusive snow leopard. Be sure to carry your camera, as if luck is on your side, you might capture a remarkable shot. Hemis has the power to make you forget the bustling cities; instead, revel in life's simple pleasures and spend your nights gazing at the star-studded sky—a truly enchanting experience awaits."

# Gokarna, Karnataka

"Among the numerous captivating beach towns, Gokarna emerges as one of India's hidden treasures, offering an offbeat escape. Renowned for its pristine and unspoiled beaches, Gokarna is primarily a temple town with a tranquil and leisurely atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway.

Here, you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beach bliss that washes over this coastal town in Karnataka. Rent a motorbike to explore the town, pay a visit to its ancient temples, and relish the mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets. Take a refreshing swim in the inviting waters whenever you please, and don't forget to savor the delectable food, vibrant music, and engaging conversations at the beachfront shacks."

# Patan, Gujarat

One of the newest addition to India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Patan in Gujarat will make for a lovely offbeat holiday places to travel to. Dating back to 745 AD, Patan, the former capital of the Chandva Rulers is dotted with lovely temples, lakes, and beautiful step walls. Ran Ki Vav being the most prominent one. Built in the 11th century, this grand step-well of Maru-Gurjara architectural style is designed as an inverted temple as obeisance to life-giving water. Patan is quite famous for Patola sarees, one of the finest hand-made textiles in the world.

# Manas National Park, Assam

A gem of North East, Manas National Park at the foothills of the Bhutan-Himalayas in the state of Assam is one of the awesome experience. It is one of the first reserves of Project Tiger in 1973 blessed with unique biodiversity and landscape. The wildlife sanctuary has substantial population of Royal Bengal Tigers and was inscribed as World Heritage Site. The last species of Pygmy Hog survive in the wilderness of Manas and nowhere else in the world. It is one of the offbeat places in India, where adventure abounds and tourist can have a wonderful time.