Hidden gems of India: 5 destinations for off-beat travellers

You might love mountains, beaches, or just plains, but there are times when one just cannot decide where to go. In such cases, it’s best to explore the countless treasures that are waiting to be discovered. So, if you can resist popular destinations like Jaipur and Goa that draw millions of visitors, here we have curated a list of such places that are less explored and will offer you ample time to learn more about travelling.

Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert that captivates adventurers with its stunning vistas and quiet monasteries. This isolated area, which sits between Tibet and India, is home to historic Buddhist temples like Ki and Kibber, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Visit this destination for once at least in your lifetime to experience trekking, camping, and stargazing.

One of the nation's newest tourist attractions is Ziro Valley, which is located in the Northeast. Ziro, an Arunachal Pradesh town, is well-known for its distinct customs and culture, which include the lively Ziro Music Festival, which takes place there every September. Visitors can explore the picturesque villages, enjoy local handicrafts, and partake in traditional Apatani cuisine. The valley’s biodiversity, including rare species of birds, makes it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Gokarna is a serene seaside town that is frequently eclipsed by its more well-known neighbour, Goa, and is renowned for both its spiritual significance and immaculate beaches. In contrast to Goa's busy beaches, Gokarna provides a calm environment ideal for unwinding and introspection. In addition to doing yoga retreats and touring historic temples like the Mahabaleshwar Temple, tourists can also enjoy exploring the stunning beaches, such as Om Beach and Kudle Beach. Gokarna's simplicity and innate beauty are what make it so appealing.

Compared to other historical sites in India, Hampi is still largely unexplored, despite its growing appeal. The magnificent Vijayanagara Empire remains at this UNESCO World Heritage site are well-known, and they are surrounded by a striking landscape of hills covered with boulders. When here, some of the highlights of this place that should be in your travel itinerary are regal palaces, ancient temples, and lively local markets.

Majuli is well-known for its distinctive Vaishnavite customs and rich history, and serves as home to a number of monasteries (Sattras) that present traditional music and dance. Discover verdant paddy fields, see local culture firsthand, and take in the breath-taking sunsets across the river. Majuli provides a peaceful haven in the centre of the cultural landscape of Assam.