Believe it or not, India has the most underrated places to visit that are waiting to be discovered by tourists. But they have lost their shine due to popular spots like Goa, Manali, Shimla, and the pandemic has affected it further. India’s total tourism income is only 1.1 percent of its GDP
To boost this income, not only of a country but also its people, UN World Tourist Organization aims to bring all such little-known destinations forward. 27 September is celebrated as World Tourism Day to remind its significance in the development of any nation.
On this occasion, we are giving you a great chance to discover places you have never been to, but once you visit these little-known destinations in India, you’d get stunned by their charm.
Get Ready For A Virtual Tour Of Hidden Gems Of India, Watch The Full Video Here
Lesser-Known But Beautiful Places In India To Visit At Least Once
1. Ziro Valley (Arunachal Pradesh)
via:veenaworld
If you have been to Itanagar but never heard of or visited Ziro Valley, you have missed the rare beauty. The lush green paddy fields at the top of mountains serve unravel views whereas Apatani people decorate the valley during festive seasons
Where- 167 km away from the capital of Arunachal Pradesh
When- It beckons all the music lovers during September when India’s largest outdoor festival ‘Ziro Music Festival’ takes place.
Best For- Trekking and Hiking
Must-See– The awe-inspiring 25 ft tall and 22 ft wide Shivaling at hills of Kardo
Also Read: Khushboo Gujarat Ki: 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Gujarat
2. Majuli/Mazuli ( Assam)
It is an island surrounded by the 9th largest and 15th longest river in the world (Brahmaputra) and Burhidihing. The reason why Majuli does not find a place in most of the tourists’ bucket lists is its high tribal population.
But this river island is a natural paradise for bird lovers and cultural fanatics. The world’s biggest and India’s first river island to be made a district is popular for Vaishanvinism, 100 varieties of rice grown here, and mask-making skills.
Where- Island is 20 km away from Assam’s urban city Jorhat
When- November to March
Best For– Bird-watching and cultural tour
The cuisine of Majauli is as unique as its surrounding. Pamnam fish baked in banana leaf, Porag aapin rice, mishing beer, and bamboo cooked pork are some must-try dishes.
3. Lepchajagat (West Bengal)
Tall oak trees surrounding the small village of Darjeeling is the hometown of the community close to Nepalese and Chinese-speaking tribes. Lepchajagat aka “World of Lepchas” is always ready to surprise your senses with its unparallel beauty and views of Kanchenjunga.
Where- 19 km away from Darjeeling
When- October to April
Best for Camping, jungle trekking, hiking
4. Mandu ( Madhya Pradesh)
via:tusktravel
In the heart of India lies a place that has preserved the remains of the love story of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. Their love did not survive longer as Mughal King Akbar invaded Mandu and Roopmati poisoned herself before Adham Khan could capture her.
The famous Baz Bahadur’s Palace, Hindola Mahal, Jahaz Mahal, Neelkanth Palace, Rani Roopmati Pavilion, and Rewa Kund which was made by King on Rani’s wish are highlights of Mandu.
Where- Dhar, Madhya Pradesh
When- October to March
Must-See- The Echo Point between Jahaz and Rani Roopmati Mahal where your voice bounces back are usually missed by tourists, make sure you don’t miss it
5. White Town ( Puducherry)
Ever been to Italy? Well, you don’t have to even cross the border. India’s White Town will give you the feel of this European country. It was home to French pre-independence and they left a legacy behind them after India became an independent country.
Where- French Quarter, Puducherry
When- Anytime is best
Famous For- Rock beach, Promenade Beach, French War Memorial, temples, and churches are artistic examples of French architecture
6. Osian- (Rajasthan)
Osian might be one of the most underrated places in India but it was a popular destination in past. It was the only center for learning Vedas during the 8th-12th century. And due to the erotic sculptures on old Hindu and Jain temples, Osian is known as “Khajuraho of Rajasthan.”
Where- Jodhpur, Rajasthan
When- November to February as the temperature is quite bearable during these months
Famous places- Surya temple, Sachiya Mata temple. Kali and the Mahavira temple
7. Nubra Valley (Ladakh)
The snow-capped mountains, gorgeous valleys, and orchards spread across the state lure tourists all over the world. But the Orchard of Ladakh aka Nubra Valley is left behind because of its location and temperature. It separates Siachen Glacier and Karakoram Ranges.
Where- North of Leh
When- June to August
Famous places– Sand dunes of Hunder, Khadungla Pass, of Maitreya Buddha (Statue of Gold)
Also Read: 7 Best Places For Road Trips In India During Monsoons
8. Talasari Beach ( Orissa)
Visit this untouched beach of Orissa and you will forget the beaches of Goa and Mumbai. Surrounded by dense rows of palm trees, pristine water, and mangroves across the Talasari makes it one of the best beaches. You can enjoy evenings with the rhythm of Talasari.
Where- Baleswar, Odisha
When- February
9. Lonar( Maharashtra)
Lonar is one of the exceptional yet underrated places to visit in India. It is unique for two reasons- one for its formation and water quality. Lonar is believed to be formed 52,000 years ago by a meteorite which resulted in the only saltwater lake in the world.
Where- Buldhana district of Vidarbha
When- October to March
Famous places– Gomukh temple, Daityasudan Temple, Kamalja Devi Temple
Also Read: Solo Trips For Women: 10 Best Destinations in India
10. Valley of Flowers (Uttarakhand)
Last but not least in most underrated place in India to visit is the Valley of Flowers. The rich fauna may or may not be the tourists’ attraction but the mythology associated with it makes it special. As per mythology, it is the place where Lord Hanuman Ji got Sanjeevani to save the life of Lord Lakshman.
Where- Chamoli, Uttarakhand
When- July and August
Famous for- Trekking (not for beginners)