Copy Link
India is a huge country and with its vastness comes many treasures, secrets and unknown places. Since India is such a big country with so much variety in its culture, food and lifestyle, it is said that it could take an entire lifetime to explore every corner of the country properly.
Despite the abundance of options, there are a few staples that we always visit during our vacations. These places are popular and attract a lot of tourists because of their commercial activities. But, there are so many underrated, lesser-known and hidden places in India that have no exposure at all and are waiting to be explored by people. Even though the tourism sector is growing rapidly, there are some unique places to visit in India that only the true travel enthusiasts know about.
In life, everybody needs changes, a distraction from our mundane lives so that we can feel rejuvenated. A vacation to a place that is wrapped in nature’s beauty and secluded from the rest of the world is the definition of a relaxing time.
Hence, we have prepared a list for you to explore some of the hidden gems from all parts of India for your next vacay! From waterfalls to forts, it's all here!
1. The green valleys of Doodhpathri, Kashmir
Starting from the north of the country, this is a place that would feel like heaven on Earth. Doodhpathri is a meadow in a small village in Kashmir that is a hidden place in India you must visit. You can roll on the green, lush valleys and play with the grazing cattle, dip your toes in the fresh streams or you can converse with the locals and know about their culture and everyday life.
Location: About 40 kilometres from Srinagar
Best time to visit: April to October
2. The chilling backdrop of Hemis, Leh
We all know what a famous and tourist favourite destination Ladakh is, but Leh has quite a few unexplored and hidden gems of India. One such place is the Hemis village. This village has the most unreal surroundings and views serving as the backdrop. It is famous for its scenic beauty, its national park that is home to animals like langur, snow leopards and wolves. It is also famous for the monastery from which you can see the entire valley of Leh and enjoy a peaceful time.
Location: Leh district, Ladakh
Best time to visit: June to mid-October
3. The tribal life of Tuophema, Nagaland
One of the most underrated and unexplored states of India is Nagaland. This state is rich in culture and the people there have held onto it proudly. If you want a taste of the authentic lifestyle of tribals and want to see how they go about their daily life, Tuophema is a place you must visit. If you want to take a trip back in time and go back to a place where life is lived like in the pre-modern times, this hidden gem in India is a place for you to explore. Their Angami-Naga fashioned huts, their local cuisine and their yummy rice beer, it's all that you should look forward to while you visit. So, let all your stress take a backseat and enjoy slow living in the lap of the Naga hills.
Location: Village in Kohima district
Best time to visit: November to April (Visit during February-end to see the famous Sekrenyi, an annual festival of the Angami Nagas)
4. Amidst the stream of Srikhola, West Bengal
The name of this beautiful place comes from the river Khola, which in Nepali means river. Srikhola is a picturesque mountain village in the Darjeeling district. You can trek through the famous Sandakphu valley and travel to Srikhola village after that. Srikhola is secluded and is one such hidden gem that demands your attention. You can visit the Srikhola bridge and enjoy the beautiful views and the Khola river too. Sit idly by the river and open your picnic baskets or dip your toes in the fresh, freezing water. You can also go for treks that will challenge you and treat you to some of the best views of the mountains. You will go back home with a clear and a satisfied mind after you return from this small yet serene village.
Location: Darjeeling district
Best time to visit: April to May and October to November
5. The forests of Idukki, Kerala
One of the hidden secrets of India that we are sure you didn’t know about is Idukki in God’s own country. The scenic valleys and thick forests of this hill station are what you should look forward to when you visit this place. You can visit and click postcard photos in the tea plantations or marvel at the waterfalls and streams that you pass. The drive through the place is one that you will never forget. You may even come across a deer or an elephant if you are lucky. However, make sure you are careful and don’t disturb the fauna of the place.
Location: Cardamom hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala
Best time to visit: October to February
6. The fauna of Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
If you are a person who likes forests and wildlife, this national park is one you must visit. It is home to hundreds of animal and plant species. It is an absolute treat for a nature lover. It has a backdrop of the Brahmagiri mountains and is filled with teak and sandalwood trees. You can drive through the place or can stay and take a night safari to feel the chills of the forest at night. The national park is not enclosed, so you can spot animals like elephants or tigers in their natural habitats. If you are interested in wildlife photography, you must keep this place on your travel bucket list.
Location: Hunsur, Karnataka
Best time to visit: April to May
7. The river of Jawai, Rajasthan
Named after the river Jawai here, this place is one of the hidden gems of India that will not disappoint the traveller in you. The state of Rajasthan is famous for many things but Jawai does not attract too many tourists. Jawai has a rich wildlife and is also home to a few sanctuaries where you can spot animals like panthers, hyenas, wolves and nilgai bears. The breathtaking view of the granite hills as a backdrop to the Jawai river is something to look forward to.
Location: Bera near Pali district of Rajasthan
Best time to visit: October to April beginning (must visit during the winters to see some unique migratory birds)
8. The architectural beauty of Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
Unpopular and unknown to most people, Mandu is one of the best kept hidden secrets of India. An epitome of beautiful architecture and a standing remnant of Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati, Mandu is also home to one of the oldest monuments in India. If you are interested in discovering our rich culture and history, you must visit Mandu. This place has tried to preserve as many of the forts and monuments from the previous centuries like Jahaz Mahal, Baz Bahadur’s Palace and Jama Masjid that you must visit.
Location: Dhar district
Best time to visit: October to March
We have listed the best hidden gems of India for you to include on your travel list. We assure you that after your travels to these places, your heart will be full with wholesome views and memories!
Photo: Shutterstock