India is a land of diversity, culture, and beauty. It offers a plethora of destinations for travelers of all kinds, from the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters; from the ancient temples to the modern skyscrapers; from the vibrant festivals to the tranquil meditation retreats. But if you are looking for something different, something off the beaten track, something that will surprise you and challenge you, then you should explore these offbeat destinations in India. These are the places that are not very popular among tourists but have their own charm and uniqueness. They will give you a glimpse of the unexplored corners of the country, and the undiscovered aspects of its culture and history.
Best 10 Offbeat Travel Locations In India
1. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro is a scenic village in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, located at an altitude of over 5000 feet. It offers breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains, calm lakes, and dense forests. The picturesque landscapes are ideal for trekking and camping activities. For culture enthusiasts, Ziro offers a glimpse into the lives of its indigenous people, the Apatani tribe, through its traditional festivals and music. Ziro is also home to the famous Ziro Music Festival, which showcases the best of Indie music from India and abroad.
2. Halebidu, Karnataka
Halebidu is a city in the southern state of Karnataka, famous for its ruins of Hoysala architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with its twin city Belur, and boasts of amazing temples and monuments that date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The most prominent among them are the Hoysaleswara Temple, the Kedareswara Temple, and the Jain Basadi. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the walls and pillars of these structures depict the stories of Hindu mythology, history, and culture.
3. Mawsynram, Meghalaya
Mawsynram is a village in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, known for being the wettest place in India and one of the wettest places in the world. It receives an average annual rainfall of about 11,872 mm, which makes it a paradise for nature lovers. The abundant rainfall creates lush greenery, waterfalls, caves, and streams in and around the village. The main attraction is a huge formation of stalagmite, which resembles a Shivling, a symbol of Lord Shiva. It is believed that the stalagmite grows by one inch every year due to the dripping water from the cave ceiling.
4. Chembra Peak, Wayanad
Chembra Peak is the highest peak in the Wayanad district of Kerala, located at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level. It is a popular trekking destination, as it offers panoramic views of not only the Wayanad district but also a large chunk of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Nilgiri districts. The peak, its surrounding lush greenery, and the famed heart-shaped lake make it a romantic getaway for couples. The lake is believed to be perennial and never dry up.
5. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Lepakshi is a small town in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, famous for its Hanging Pillar in the Lepakshi Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is built in the Vijayanagara style of architecture. The temple has 70 pillars, out of which one is hanging from the ceiling without any support. It is said that the pillar was dislodged by a British engineer who tried to find out the secret behind its suspension. The pillar is also a source of attraction for visitors, who try to pass objects under it as a test of luck.
6. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar is a hill station in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, often called the Mini Switzerland of India. It is a picturesque spot, surrounded by pine forests, meadows, and a lake. It is a perfect place for relaxing, enjoying the scenic beauty, and indulging in adventure sports like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. Khajjiar is also known for its ancient temples, such as the Khajji Nag Temple, which dates back to the 12th century and has wooden carvings of serpents, gods, and goddesses.
7. Velas, Maharashtra
Velas is a coastal village in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, famous for its turtle festival. The festival is held every year between February and March, when thousands of Olive Ridley turtles come to the beach to lay their eggs. The villagers, along with the help of NGOs, protect the eggs and release the hatchlings into the sea. The festival is a great opportunity to witness the life cycle of endangered species and also to enjoy the pristine beach and the local culture.
8. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh
Shoja is a small village in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, located at an altitude of 2692 meters above sea level. It is a hidden gem, away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy places, and offers a serene and peaceful environment. The village is surrounded by thick forests, snow-capped mountains, and waterfalls, which make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Shoja is also a base for trekking to nearby places like Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake, and Raghupur Fort.
9. Askot, Uttarakhand
Askot is a town in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, situated on a ridge at an altitude of 1106 meters above sea level. It is a historical place, as it was once the capital of the Askot Kingdom, which ruled over parts of Nepal and Tibet. The town has a rich cultural heritage, as it is home to various tribes and communities, such as the Rajwar, Darmi, Chaudhari, and Tharu. Askot is also known for its wildlife sanctuary, which hosts a variety of flora and fauna, including the rare musk deer.
10. Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna, situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, is renowned for its pristine beaches and ancient temples. This town holds great significance in Hindu pilgrimage as it is believed to be the sacred spot where Lord Shiva emerged from a cow’s ear. Gokarna boasts a rich religious heritage with prominent temples like the Mahabaleshwar Temple, Koti Teertha, and Bhadrakali Temple, attracting devotees from across the nation.
In addition to its spiritual allure, Gokarna has gained popularity as a sought-after destination for backpackers and free-spirited travelers. The town’s serenade and unspoiled beaches, such as Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Paradise Beach, have become magnets for backpackers and hippies seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Conclusion
India is a country that perpetually dazzles and captivates its visitors. It caters to the preferences of all, whether one seeks adventure, culture, spirituality, nature, or history. Yet, to truly immerse yourself in India’s essence, venturing beyond the typical tourist hubs to explore some of the nation’s eccentric destinations is a must. These are the places that unveil India’s concealed beauty, untarnished allure, and diverse heritage. They are the sites that will rekindle your love for India. So, why wait any longer? Pack your bags, let Paytm Travel take care of your travel needs, and embark on a journey to discover India’s top 10 unconventional tourist spots in 2023. You won’t regret it.
