Exploring the Unexplored with the 25 Best Offbeat Places to Visit in India

Anyone considering the places to visit in India is bound to need clarification on all the options. For example, if you plan a Leh trip, you will find many Leh Ladakh packages, each with a different itinerary. Hence, you can understand that if one place has so many places to visit, those travellers must pick and choose the destination they want to visit.

There are many tourist places in India that are known worldwide for their beauty and splendour. But a few hidden gems are waiting to be discovered beyond the famous tourist spots. These offbeat destinations in India offer a unique perspective on India’s beauty and charm, and visiting them can be a truly unforgettable experience. In this blog, we will take you on a journey to India’s 25 best offbeat destinations that you can plan to visit in 2023.

1. Gokarna, Karnataka 

The town offers a unique mix of adventure and spirituality, making it an ideal destination for all travellers. Visit between October and March to enjoy the pleasant weather and respite from life’s usual bustle.

2. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh 

Visitors can also explore the nearby temples and trek to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Khajjiar has attractions for both kinds of visitors. Those seeking relaxation can take strolls down the rolling meadows, while those looking for adventure can go paragliding, zorbing, and such. For these reasons, it is one of the best places to visit in India in the summer months. The best time to visit Khajjiar is between April and June.

3. Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Karnataka  

Visitors can spot these fascinating animals in their natural habitat and observe their behaviour. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between October and February when the weather is pleasant and the bears are active.

Apart from sloth bears, the sanctuary is also home to several other species of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, jackals, wild boars, and several species of birds. It is a beautiful addition to this list of places to visit in India.

4. Auli, Uttarakhand

You can either trek to Auli from Joshimath or take a ropeway ride. We suggest you pick the latter option, as here you will be met by nature’s beauty in its most pristine form. The town offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers. The best time to visit Auli is between December and February.

5. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

This valley is home to the Apatani tribe, and visitors can learn about their culture and traditions by exploring the nearby villages. The valley offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan lifestyle, but it comes to life during the famous Ziro Music Festival. This duality helped to make Ziro one of the best tourist places in India. The best time to visit is between March and October.

6. Gurez Valley, Kashmir

The valley is an ideal destination for trekking and camping, with several trekking routes offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and experience the local culture and cuisine. Wular Lake, Peer Baba Shrine, and Razdan Pass are the popular tourist attractions of Gurez Valley. The most suitable time to visit Gurez Valley is between June and September.

7. Majuli, Assam

You will also get to experience the tribal lifestyle and get to take part in their cultural festivities. The island also allows visitors to experience Assamese cuisines and traditional handicrafts. The best time to visit Majuli is between October and March.

8. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

The village is often called the cleanest village in Asia, with locals taking great pride in maintaining its cleanliness. Visitors can explore the village and admire the beautiful flower gardens and waterfalls. The village is also home to the rare living root bridge, but it will require you to climb down many steps. The village also offers visitors a chance to experience the local culture and cuisines. The best time to visit Mawlynnong is between September and May.

9. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

The valley is also home to several ancient monasteries, including the famous Key Monastery and Kibber Monastery. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and experience the local culture and cuisine. You may even be lucky to spot the elusive snow leopards around Chicham village.

If you are searching for quiet and completely offbeat places to visit in India, then Spiti would be your best bet. The valley offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city’s lifestyle, and the best time to visit is between June and September.

10. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

The town is home to the famous Tawang Monastery that remains popular as one of the largest Buddhist monasteries worldwide. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and experience the local culture and cuisine.The best time to visit Tawang is between March and October.

11. Champaner, Gujarat

One of the main attractions of Champaner-Pavagadh is Pavagadh Hill. Atop this hill, you can see breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can take a ropeway ride, hike up to the top of the mountain, or explore the ruins of a once-thriving empire. If you visit Champaner-Pavagadh between October and March when the weather is pleasant, you can enjoy bird watching from the hilltop.

12. Chopta, Uttarakhand

You can trek up to the Tungnath Temple, one of the Pancha Kedars and the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. All along the road, you will find lush green meadows that the locals call . Trekkers can also go beyond the Tungnath Temple up to Chandrashila Peak for stunning views of the Himalayas. You can camp here at night and enjoy the starry sky in pitch darkness. The best time to visit Chopta is between April and June.

13. Nubra Valley, Ladakh 

The valley is home to several endangered wildlife animals; hence you need to apply for a permit online before visiting this tourist place in India. There are ancient monasteries and beautiful villages, including the famous Diskit Village, to explore in Nubra Valley. There is the added charm of planned activities like camel riding and river rafting, apart from the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are many places to visit in India, but Nubra Valley is the only place where you get to experience a camel ride at such a height in the Himalayas. The perfect time to visit Nubra Valley is between May and September. To know more about the valley, you can check out our Nubra Valley Guide.

14. Sandakphu, Darjeeling

Sandakphu translates to a height of poison plants, and this is one of the most unique places to visit in India. The place got its name from the wolfsbane plant that grows naturally in the region. Phalut, Meghma, and Tumlingare the most attractive tourist locations in Sandakphu, and you can visit them any time of the year.

15. Halebid, Karnataka

The ruins resulted from frequent invasions by Malik Kafur and his armies, who ransacked the region in the 14th century. Come to Halebid and experience a walk through India’s colourful history. You can also visit Belur and Shravanabelagola, where you will find beautiful Jain monuments. These marvellous ancient structures make Halebid the best tourist place in India.

16. Chembra Peak, Kerala

Nature lovers in you must come here once as you will see many flora and fauna in their natural environment. It would be wise not to disturb or touch any of the plants in the region, as the Forest Department has a mandate against it.

There is also a natural lake called Hridaya Saras in the shape of a heart where you can click beautiful pictures with your loved ones. Come here between September and February to see the valley’s verdant glory.

17. Kanatal, Uttarakhand

You can easily spend 8-10 days in this romantic place while enjoying your hotel’s stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The popular tourist attractions that you can see in Kanatal are the Surkanda Devi Temple and the Tehri Dam. The best time to visit Kanatal would be April and June.

18. Damro, Arunachal Pradesh 

You have got to come here once, and you will resent going back to your city life. The Damro Labokellie Tea Garden is an excellent addition to this already beautiful place. You can even form a relationship with the hospitable locals and work alongside them in the fields, which is something you won’t find in other places to visit in India. The best time to visit Damro would be between October and April.

19. Kila Raipur, Punjab

If you want to explore places to visit in India in February, you must visit Kila Raipur. It is then that the locals hold the Rural Olympics, which is celebrated with much pomp.

20. Jawai, Rajasthan

There are places to visit in India where you can watch animals and birds in their natural habitat from a safe distance. But in Jawai, you also get the benefit of local hospitality. It is a great place for birdwatchers, as many migratory birds, like flamingoes, cranes, geese, etc., flock here. You can also visit the nearby Kambeshwar Mahadev Temple, Kumbhalgarh, and Abhinav Mahavir Dham. It is best to see Jawai between early September and May.

21. Amadubi, Jharkhand

Support the local artisans here and buy the Mithila-print sarees, Dokra craft, and Paitkar paintings. These are sure to add colour to your life and home. The best time to go to Amadubi is between September and March.

22. Mainpat, Chhattisgarh 

23. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh

In the temple, you will find the miraculous hanging pillar and the beautiful idol of Lord Shiva. The Jatayu Theme Park makes Lepakshi a must amongst other places to visit in India. It is best to come to Lepakshi from November to March.

24. Velas, Maharashtra

You can come to Velas and visit the Bankot Fort or walk down the beaches like Velas Beach and Hariheshwar Beach. The best time to go to Velas is between March and April.

25. Moodbidri, Karnataka  

The famous places in Moodbidri are Kanchibail Waterfalls, Durga Waterfalls, and Gomateshwara Statue. You can find the best climate from September to March in Moodbidri.

India has diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. The 25 offbeat destinations mentioned above are just a few examples of India’s hidden gems. These places to visit in India are perfect for travellers looking for something unique, away from the usual tourist spots.

From the pristine beaches of South India to the majestic mountains of the Himalayas, each destination offers a unique experience. These are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a history buff, these places to visit in India have something to offer everyone.

So, if you’re planning your next vacation, consider visiting one of these offbeat destinations to experience the true essence of India. The memories you will make on your trip will stay with you forever.