8 villages in India that are experiences, not just destinations

In a world where people are running after famous attractions and more ‘social-media-recommended’ destinations, there are some incredible villages in India which enjoy a life away from all limelight. This is one of the reasons that these destinations are more appealing to the offbeat travellers these days. It is often said that if you want to see the real side of India, visit its villages. Far from the madding crowd and glamorous skyscrapers, these pretty hamlets humble us as explorers.

These villages are a beautiful mix of culture, natural beauty and history, making them once-in-a-lifetime experiences and just your regular destinations.

Poovar is a lesser-known beauty in Kerala. The place is all about backwaters and beaches andd offers tropical serenity where rivers meet the Arabian Sea. It is a southern Kerala village which is defined by mangroves, and fishing communities. Boat rides through canals at sunrise and sunset is a must.

Hampi is far more than a village, it stands as a living echo of a once-magnificent empire. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the capital of the powerful Vijayanagara Empire. Today, its vast landscape of ruins, temples, and royal structures stretches across more than 4,100 hectares, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient India. It is an unmissable destination for anyone eager to witness the architectural brilliance and cultural richness of India’s past.

Chitkul, almost on the edge of India in the heart of the Himalaya is a village that everyone must visit once in their life! Set at 3,450 m on the final stretch of the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route, it is also India’s most isolated village. The whole village is all about the Himalayan views, the welcoming villagers and food so humble and delicious.

Also known as Asia’s Cleanest Village, Mawlynnong in Meghalaya is one of the few places in India where you can actually feel a breath of fresh air. It’s a community in Meghalaya which showcases environmental harmony. The village is a beautiful example of roads lined with flowers and bamboo houses blending with panoramic views of the Khasi Hills.

Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh isn’t your regular village. It’s a valley dotted with green rice paddies, pretty forests, and a rich tribal culture. It is also home to the Apatani tribe, which makes it a must visit place for curious travellers. The place is all about sustainable farming, bamboo houses, and the Ziro Music Festival, which attracts artists and visitors from all over the globe.

Nubra Valley is the place where deserts meet mountains! The village looks otherworldly with high-altitude desert, snow-covered peaks and shimmering blue rivers. This place is a perfect oasis for peace lovers. Villages such as Diskit and Hunder also offer rich cultural experiences. The best part of Nubra is that its cold desert is full of life.

Kalpa is situated at an elevation of about 3,000 meters in the Kinnaur district. The place is postcard-perfect brimming with apple orchards and pretty villages. Some seem suspended between earth and sky! Simply unbelievable this place is! Don’t miss out on hiking the Chakka trails by dusk, a soulful experience.

Dhordo is surreal in all the beautiful ways you can imagine! beauty lies in the endless white salt plains of the Great Rann of Kutch. Sunsets are ethereal! Dhordo has become a global icon of rural tourism. It has also received the “Best Tourism Village” award from the United Nations World Tourism Organization for its community engagement, and sustainable tourism.