10 most beautiful, underrated Indian villages worth exploring

There are countless tourist destinations in India that keep making records in terms of tourist footfall. And there are places that are not in the limelight, are quiet and have a charm of their own. Many don’t talk about these hidden gems, thinking that too much tourism will spoil those places too. Well, travel responsibly and take care of your surroundings as you take care of your home. If you are inclined to go off the hook, and explore places that are off-beat, many of which might not have the luxury, but unbelievable natural beauty to entice you, here’s a list of those places that deserve your attention for sure.

Nestled in the heart of Arunachal Pradesh, Ha is a charming village that offers a unique insight into the region’s rich tribal culture. It's known for its traditional wooden houses, lively festivals, and the warm hospitality of its people.

At an altitude of 4,270 meters, Kibber is one of the highest villages in the world. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it offers breathtaking views and is known for its wildlife, including the snow leopard. It’s a paradise for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.

A village shrouded in mystery, Malana is famous for its distinct culture and self-governance system. Surrounded by the majestic mountains, its isolation has preserved its traditional way of life. The village is also known for its unique cannabis cultivation.

Pondha is a charming village that offers a serene atmosphere with its lush green forests and river views. The village is famous for its terraced farms and warm hospitality. A visit to this place will help you to disconnect from your phone and immerse in the natural beauty of the place.

Lachen, a remote community in the Himalayas, is famous for its stunning views of azure skies and snow-capped mountains. It is the gateway to the beautiful Gurudongmar Lake and offers a peaceful, traditional way of life amidst stunning landscapes.

Located in the Nainital district, Dhanachuli is a hidden treasure surrounded by thick oak forests and terraced fields. A visit to this village will take you closer to the incredible views of the Himalayas and is perfect for a relaxing getaway far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Lamayuru, famed for its distinctive "Moonland" landscape, enthrals visitors with its ethereal beauty for sure. Home to the ancient Lamayuru Monastery, one of Ladakh's oldest and most revered religious establishments, there is more to this place that one needs to visit to experience it.

Known for its spectacular Khimsar Fort, which masterfully blends the mysticism of the Thar Desert with Rajasthan's regal legacy, Khimsar is a charming desert settlement. Visitors can get a peek of the state's regal past at the fort, which was once a royal home and features exquisite architecture and elaborate ornamentation.

Chitkul is the last inhabited village before the India-China border, which makes it an interesting, offbeat, place to visit. A peaceful haven for anyone seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and the serene Baspa River. In short, it's a paradise for both nature lovers and explorers.