Exploring The Uncharted — 5 Hidden Gems In India To Travel
India has endless destinations for travellers, with breathtaking views of landscapes, waterfalls and mountains, these places are perfect for the rejuvenation of mind and soul.
(By: Govind Gaur – Founder & CEO, WanderOn)
India is a land of endless discoveries, where every corner holds a story waiting to be uncovered. While popular destinations like Goa, Manali, and Jaipur attract the crowds, some of the country’s most breathtaking places remain hidden from the mainstream traveller. If one wants to explore the unexplored, here are five such unique landscapes filled with untouched beauty, cultural experiences which will make people realise Hidden gems in India.
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh:
Hidden away in the Eastern Himalayas, Ziro Valley is a haven for nature and culture lovers. Inhabited by the Apatani tribe, this verdant valley is famous for its rolling rice fields, pine-covered mountains, and quaint wooden houses that paint a beautiful picture. The music culture here that really differentiates Ziro from any other place, where the Ziro Music Festival, held each year, turns the valley into an abode for free-spirited music creators. Whether hiking along foggy paths, wandering through Apatani villages, or lounging in the beauty of the valley, Ziro has an experience that perfectly entwines nature and heritage. The ideal month to travel is from September to April, when the weather is the most welcoming.
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:
For adventure lovers, Spiti Valley is a yet to be discovered heaven, a dream world of breathtaking juxtaposition of high drama landscapes, old monasteries, and some of the world's highest motorable villages. The cold desert high altitude is an enthusiast's heaven where each corner hides rough cliffs, twisting roads, and panoramas that will take the breath away. The majestic key Monastery, sitting atop a hill, is a marvel of spirituality as well as architecture, while the serene Chandratal Lake gives one an experience of camping near heaven under a star-filled sky. Thrill-seekers can take up trek and bike excursions, visit far-flung villages such as Langza and Hikkim, which boasts of the world's highest post office. The ideal time to visit Spiti is from May to October.
Hanle, Leh:
Situated deep in the offbeat Changthang area of Ladakh, Hanle is a pristine high-altitude wonderland with mesmerising vistas and one of the world's most transparent night skies. With the Indian Astronomical Observatory, which is one of the highest in the world, Hanle is a stargazer and astrophotographer's heaven. With vast open landscapes, rugged mountains, and lesser human presence, this hidden gem is ideal for those seeking solitude and untouched beauty. Travellers may also visit the Hanle Monastery, a serene spiritual sanctuary amidst the beautiful desolate landscapes of Ladakh. The best time to visit Hanle is June to September, when the roads are more accessible.
Majuli, Assam:
The World’s Largest River Island; floating over the vast Brahmaputra River, Majuli is a peaceful island celebrated for its breathtaking vistas, strong Assamese culture, and nature-friendly lifestyle. The largest river island of the world presents an unforgettable cultural heritage experience with Vaishnavite monasteries (Satras) that serve as guardians of Assam's religious and cultural legacy. The island springs to life at the Raas Festival, where the people go through their vibrant traditional dance, and it is the best time to experience strong Assamese traditions. With its peaceful atmosphere, dense foliage, and eroding shorelines, Majuli is a place that will never stay the same forever, making it beautiful and unique. The best period to go there is during October to March.
Shillong:
Often known as ‘Scotland of the East’, Shillong is still unexplored, which sustains the place as the epitome of beauty. The city connects with nature, preserving its forests and churches. Exuberating the feeling of old structures and modern living, Shillong is a place to be across age groups. Green parks, waterfalls, old churches, trendy living, light drizzle makes it a memorable destination even for the honeymoon couples. It is also a very affordable destination, which makes it even more recommended for travellers.
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