Hidden gems: Top 10 unexplored offbeat destinations in India

Beyond all the traditional tourist destinations here, lies a mine of hidden gems with unprecedented beauty. In this article, we'll offer an insight into India's top 10 unexplored offbeat destinations, to inspect for adventures, tranquillity, and jaw-dropping beauty. 

These unconventional destinations offer an insight to learn more about local culture and travel around pristine natural beauties. These off-beat spots provide a deep perception of India's geographical beauty and rich heritage. 

1. Damro, Arunachal Pradesh

Damro is a beautiful tribal village in the Upper Siang of Arunachal Pradesh. The hanging bridge made out of ropes and bamboo on the Yamne nearby, is the longest in India. City-dwellers love to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of the tribals here. Besides trekking to the famous Pasighat and Yingkiong via the bridge, people can enjoy local cuisines like Raja Chilli Chutney and Apong. The months from October to April are the best time to visit this village of Adi Padam Tribe. 

2. Chembra Lake and Wayanad, Western Ghats

Chembra Lake, approximately 2,100 m above sea level in the Western Ghats range in Kerela, is India's only naturally occurring heart-shaped lake. The best time to trek to the Chembra Lake and Peak is from December to February. Tourists can start their trekking from the nearby town of Meppadi. Wayanad is famous for spots like Kuruvadweep, Banasura Dam, Pookodo Lake, Soochipara Meenmutty waterfalls, etc.

3. Gurez Valley, Kashmir

Gurez Valley is surely Kashmir's most precious hidden gem. For a long time, it was off-limits for common tourists due to its proximity to the Line of Control. Now, it's one of the safest places for solo trips and women tourists. It’s home to the forgotten tribe of the Dard-Shin People. The ancient villages of Gurez, Tulail, Izmarg, and Bagtore are simply magical fairylands amidst these beautiful landscapes.  

4. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Mawlynnong village has been honoured as the “Cleanest Village in Asia” for the eco-friendly practices of the Khasi tribe living here. It’s considered God’s Own Garden for stunning orchids, flowers evergreen forest, streams, and a well-preserved live root bridge. The famous Nohwet Living Root Living Root Bridge is woven through generations. The Church of Epiphany is a 100-year-old European structure amidst lush greenery.  

5. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh

Lepakshi is one of the most intriguing tourist destinations with large monolithic structures and detailed carvings depicting details of Hindu mythology. The main attraction of the town is the temples dedicated to Veerbhadra and Lord Rama. Other remarkable places to visit in Lepakshi are Hemavathi, Gooty Fort, Ratnagiri Fort, Dharmavaram, etc. Lepakshi Utsav is a perfect time to indulge in traditional celebrations. 

6. Moodbidri, Karnataka

Moodbidri, or Mudbedri, is quite popular for spiritual tourism in Karnataka. There are many temples dedicated to various religions, such as the Saavira Kambada Basadi, Guru Basadi with the sacred text Dhavala, Hanuman Temple, and Shree Venkataramana Temple. The most famous is the 400-year-old Portuguese-built Hospet Church or Igreja da Santa Cruz Hospet. The best time to visit Moodbidri is during different festivals, such as Hulivesha, Maari Puja, Navratri, Bhoot Kola, Korikatta, and Kartik Puja. 

7. Lunglei, Mizoram

Lunglei's literal meaning is “the bridge of rock.” It is a perfect destination for nature lovers, and there are many activities suitable for everyone, such as trekking and bird watching. The city is famous for the Buddha statue in Mualcheng village, which is nearby. Other famous attractions close by are Zobawk Sports Academy, Kawmzawl Park, Saikuti Hall, Thuamluaia Mual, etc. Lunglei is one of the least polluted towns in India and is home to beautiful flora and fauna. 

8. Jawai, Rajasthan

Jawai is the newest addition to the list of wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan. The beautiful Aravalli Hills of the Bera Village, the Jawai River, and the Jawai Dams are popular for Leopards, hyenas, crocodiles, and migratory birds. The best time to visit Jawai is from October to February. The Jawai Heritage Castle is the best place to enjoy the royal hospitality here. 

9.  Velas, Maharashtra

Velas Beach in Ratnagiri is famous for its Olive Ridley turtles. People can visit Bankot Fort, Kelshi, Kondvil Beach, and Murud Janjira. Turtle festival is of great importance here. From February to April The locals volunteer to serve the turtles for laying eggs and hatching baby turtles in the Velas Beach.

10. Majuli, Assam

Majuli is the World’s largest river island and is built on the Brahmaputra River. In recent times, it has gained popularity for being the epitome of local traditions and cultural crafts. People hire boats and cruises to the island for bird watching and other activities. Rasleela is the ideal time to visit there.  

Get yourself well-prepared to be enchanted with the unexplored beauty of India.  Trek to the wild roads and dive into the scenic beauty of India's most exciting offbeat destinations to create adventurous memories.