India is a beautiful country that brings together different elements. With around 22 official languages, versatile culture, diverse landscape, and many regional cuisines, India is a country that has to be not just visited but to be experienced to capture its true essence. The Taj Mahal, the tea estates of Assam, the backwaters of Kerala, and the snow-clad peaks of Manali may be the quintessential holiday destinations in India, but there are many lesser-known gems that you should include in your bucket list.
Great Rann of Kutch
When you are done with all the touristy locations such as Manali, Agra, and Darjeeling, it is time to discover some lesser-explored places. The Great Rann of Kutch is one such must-visit. A seasonal salt marsh located in the Thar Desert of Gujarat, this holiday destination comes alive during Rann Utsav, a cultural fiesta of traditional music, folk dance, and a shimmering landscape.
Best time to visit – November to February
Varkala, Kerala
A coastal town that hangs dangerously from a cliff! Situated in Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, Varkala is known for its pristine beach, hills, and forts. A peaceful hamlet, the beach is also called the Papanasam Beach (translated as the beach which washes away your sins). The folklore has it that a dip in the holy waters of this beach will wash away all your sins.
Best time to visit – Any time is a great time
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
Have you always longed to wish the Keukenhof gardens in Amsterdam? Worry not, there are more places around the world, some even closer to home, that offers you a similar visual feast. The Valley of Flowers National Park situated in Uttarakhand is one such gem. With its fields of alpine flowers and glaciers, rest assured that you will never be disappointed.
Best time to visit – June to August
Vagamon, Kerala
Vagamon is a picturesque hill station nestled in the lush green state of Kerala. If you are looking for a holiday amidst beautiful mountains and a salubrious climate, then head to Vagamon. This destination may not find a mention among the list of fancy places, but it surely has to be experienced for its unadulterated beauty.
Best time to visit – Any time is a great time, but visit during June-July to experience the Kerala Monsoon.
Living root bridges, Meghalaya
Situated in the tropical forest of Meghalaya, living root bridges is one of the most stunning man-made natural wonders of India. An invention made by the Khasi tribe to cope with the long monsoons, these bridges grow from the roots of ancient rubber trees. The root bridges are a brilliant alternative to the wooden bridges, which cannot withstand the monsoon.