Uncover the Secret Face of India with ASAP Holidays
Talking of visiting India, everyone can imagine places like Goa, Jaipur, Shimla, Kerala, and Manali immediately. Although all these places still attract tourists from everywhere, the true wonder of India hides somewhere off the beaten path of conventional tourism. The hidden beauty of these unexplored offbeat destinations in India is hidden between high mountains, dense forests, pristine valleys, and peaceful beaches.
If you happen to be one who relishes genuine travel experiences, tranquil environs, cultural interaction, and stunning natural vistas without the thronging crowd, it’s high time that you ventured out of the beaten track. These untapped and unexplored places in India offer you an experience of a lifetime.
For ASAP Holidays, every travel experience should be special in its own way. That is the reason for our region-by-region list comprising ten of India’s most incredible places that you would love to visit.
Quick Travel Planner
Destination | Region | Best For | Best Time | Ideal Duration |
Gurez Valley | North | Nature & Photography | Jun-Sep | 5 Days |
Chitkul | North | Mountain Escape | May-Oct | 3 Days |
Ziro Valley | North-East | Tribal Culture | Mar-Oct | 4 Days |
Dzukou Valley | North-East | Trekking | Jun-Sep | 3 Days |
Koraput | East | Heritage & Nature | Oct-Mar | 4 Days |
Mainpat | Central | Hill Retreat | Oct-Feb | 3 Days |
North Kerala: Malabar | South | Adventure | Sep-Feb | 2 Days |
Buddhist Rock-Cut Caves | South | Trekking | Sep-Feb | 2 Days |
Velas | West | Eco Tourism | Feb-Apr | 2 Days |
Polo Forest | West | Heritage | Oct-Mar | 2 Days |
1. Gurez Valley, Jammu & Kashmir (Northern India)
Nestled within the towering Himalayan range, Gurez Valley is one of the least explored regions of India. Situated near the Line of Control, this picturesque valley provides breathtaking mountain scenery, clear streams, and traditional wooden settlements that remain untouched by time.
The traveler looking for the adventure of an amazing mountain escapes will find all of these features in Gurez Valley.
As opposed to the tourist traps found in the Kashmir region, Gurez Valley retains its peace and allows travelers to enjoy nature at its best. It is also the home of the Dard-Shina tribe which will give a taste of their vibrant culture.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Couples, Nature Lovers, Photographers |
Nearest Airport | Srinagar |
Trip Budget | ₹20,000–28,000 |
Ideal Stay | 4–5 Days |
2. Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh (North India)
Known as the last settlement near the Indo-Tibet border, Chitkul is the paradise for people looking to experience some peace and nature. The snow-capped mountains, beautiful wooden homes, apple orchards, and the flowing Baspa River are picture-perfect landscapes.
Even though many tourists visit nearby places, Chitkul still provides a more relaxed environment, making it ideal for people who are on slow travel in India.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Families, Couples |
Budget | ₹12,000–18,000 |
Best Season | May–October |
Stay | 2–3 Days |
3. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh (Northeast India)
One of the best-kept secrets of India, Ziro Valley is famous for its lush green scenery and unique culture of the Apatani tribe. The valley offers beautiful nature alongside agriculture and indigenous culture, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in India.
Travellers can cycle around paddy fields, tour tribal villages, taste local cuisine or attend the internationally renowned Ziro Music Festival.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Famous For | Apatani Tribe |
Best Time | March–October |
Budget | ₹18,000–25,000 |
Duration | 4 Days |
4. Dzukou Valley, Nagaland (North-East India)
Referred to as the “Valley of Flowers of the Northeast,” Dzukou Valley is known for its lush green meadows, wild flowers during some seasons, and spectacular sunrises. A relatively easy trek takes one through one of the most picturesque high-altitude destinations of India.
Dzukou Valley is among the best off-beat travel destinations in India.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Trek Difficulty | Moderate |
Best Season | June–September |
Budget | ₹15,000–22,000 |
Duration | 3 Days |
5. Koraput, Odisha (East India)
This place is not in sight of the famous beaches in Odisha; it is located far away and serves as a perfect blend of tribes, falls, coffee plantations, and mountains. Travellers are provided with an opportunity to experience rural tourism.
Another area where Koraput is catching up is that of tribal heritage tourism, where tourists can learn about the indigenous tribes, visit colorful markets, and learn about centuries-old traditions that define the culture of the place.
Deomali Peak, Duduma Waterfall, tribal markets, and organic coffee grown locally are some key attractions here.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Culture & Nature |
Best Time | October–March |
Budget | ₹14,000–20,000 |
Stay | 4 Days |
6. Mainpat, Chhattisgarh (Central India)
Often called the “Tibet in Miniature of Chhattisgarh,” Mainpat can be considered one of the Central Indian hidden gems. With forests, waterfalls, hills, and Tibetan colonies in abundance, this hill-station is surely a place to enjoy peace amidst crowded tourist spots.
Apart from the monasteries of Buddhism where one can have meditation classes, meet with the monks and relish Tibetan food, one can also go for adventure tours to places such as Tiger Point and Fish Point which are near the area. The place has a cool climate and offers great views.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Families, Nature Lovers |
Best Time | October – February |
Budget | ₹12,000–18,000 |
Ideal Duration | 3 Days |
7. North Kerala: Malabar (South India)
The Malabar area of North Kerala which comprises cities like Kannur, Kasaragod and Wayanad is a secret place that is full of rich culture and natural surroundings. It is still one of the unexplored tourist places in India which is gaining awareness amongst the travelers now.
If you are someone who is looking for adventure travel India, then you can trek through the forests of Wayanad and see the famous Theyyam dance which is a special tradition of North Kerala.
Also, there are places like Bekal Fort in Kannur, beaches of Kannur, spice plantations, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries which can be explored by the visitors.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Nature, Culture and Adventure |
Best Time | October – March |
Budget | ₹12,000–18,000 |
Ideal Duration | 4–6 Days |
Expert Tip by ASAP Holidays: Come at the time of the Theyyam festival (October-May) and blend it with Wayanad trekking for the ultimate cultural-nature combination.
8. Buddhist Rock-Cut Caves of Andhra Pradesh (South India)
Some of the oldest Buddhist sites in India are located in Andhra Pradesh which have a history of more than 2,000 years. Visit some of the scenic destinations in India like the rock-cut caves, monasteries, stupas, and other ruins in places such as Bojjannakonda, Bhattiprolu, Amaravati, and Guntupalli. These places provide an insight into the Buddhist heritage of South India and make a great destination for travelers who are interested in history and culture.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | History, Heritage & Culture |
Best Time | October – March |
Budget | ₹10,000–15,000 |
Ideal Duration | 2-4 Days |
Tip from the experts at ASAP Holidays:Get to know about the rich Buddhist history of Andhra Pradesh through heritage sites such as Amaravati and Bojjannakonda and avoid the scorching summers
9. Velas, Maharashtra (Western India)
Velas is one of the hidden holiday destinations in India that you will find in Maharashtra. It is a serene village located in the region of Konkan that is known across the globe for organizing the Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation festival.
Velas serves as an example of eco-tourism in India, which ensures the preservation of Olive Ridley turtles by means of conservation, homestays run by the locals, and eco-tourism itself.
Apart from wildlife conservation, Velas is characterized by pristine beaches, hospitality of the Konkanis, and eco-tourism itself.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Families & Wildlife Lovers |
Best Time | February – April |
Budget | ₹8,000–12,000 |
Ideal Duration | 2 Days |
10. Polo Forest, Gujarat (West India)
Located within the Aravalli Hills, Polo Forest is a haven for all those travelers who love to experience a mix of history, nature, and adventure. The dense forests, historic Jain and Hindu temples, riverfront tracks, and diverse birdlife make it one of the most exciting and unknown hidden gems in India.
Be it cycling in the forest tracks, bird watching, or exploring the centuries-old ruins; Polo Forest is the place to be at.
Travel Snapshot
Information | Details |
Best For | Heritage & Nature |
Best Time | October – March |
Budget | ₹9,000–14,000 |
Ideal Duration | 2 Days |
Which Destination Matches Your Travel Style?
If You Love… | Visit… |
Snow-covered mountains | Gurez Valley |
Quiet Himalayan villages | Chitkul |
Tribal heritage | Ziro Valley |
Scenic trekking | Dzukou Valley |
Waterfalls & local culture | Koraput |
With such an itinerary in your travel plans, and choosing lesser-known places in India, you can avoid the tourist traps while simultaneously giving back to the local communities through sustainable and responsible tourism.
Why Go for Offbeat Destinations in India?
Exploring places other than well-known tourist spots is not only to avoid the hustle but to get a sense of the destination itself. Going for offbeat destinations in India gives you the chance to get a real feel of the place.
Some of the key advantages include:
- Low crowds and less stressful traveling experience.
- The chance to help promote local artists, guides, and homestays.
- Increased chances for wildlife sightings and photography.
- Cultural immersion with regional fairs and local food.
- More sustainable tourism for the betterment of locals.
Whether you are going on a day trip or a longer holiday, selecting these hidden gems of India is not only rewarding for the travelers but will also ensure that these lesser-known places in India remain preserved.
Destination Comparison at a Glance
Travel Preference | Recommended Destination |
Snow-covered Mountains | Gurez Valley |
Himalayan Village Life | Chitkul |
Tribal Culture | Ziro Valley |
Scenic Trekking | Dzukou Valley |
Waterfalls & Coffee Estates | Koraput |
Peaceful Hill Retreat | Mainpat |
Canyon Landscapes | Gandikota |
Mountain Trekking | Chembra Peak |
Hidden Beaches | Velas |
Heritage & Forest Trails | Polo Forest |
Make Your Journey Smooth with ASAP Holidays
To plan an unconventional vacation, you need more than just air tickets and hotel arrangements. Some remote locations may not be accessible all-year round, and there may not be too many accommodation facilities available. Selecting a reliable travel companion makes sure that your travel goes smoothly from beginning to end.
ASAP Holidays prides itself in being able to design itineraries which are comfortable, safe, and full of local flavor. Be it an escape to the Himalayas, a secluded fishing village, or an adventure among the tribes of India, our tour guides will help you find unusual places to visit.
Why Choose ASAP Holidays for Your Travels?
- Holiday packages tailored according to your needs
- Helpful advice on destinations
- Convenient stay and transport services
- Delights for all types of tourists: Families, couples, singles and groups
- Pre-trip and in-holiday assistance
Travel Beyond the Ordinary
There is more to India than what is seen from its famous locations. There are many beautiful unexplored places in India like the pristine valleys of Kashmir and Northeast, the secret beaches of Maharashtra, and even the forested historical sites of Gujarat.
The next time you think about going on holiday, avoid the beaten path and opt for places that provide more than just superficial attractions.
ASAP Holidays will take care of your next adventure after the guidebook stops.
FAQs
What is the weirdest place to visit in India?
The Gurez Valley located in the state of Jammu & Kashmir is considered one of the least explored places in India owing to its isolation, picturesque beauty, and low tourist influx.
What are some trekking sites that have not been explored yet in India?
Some of the best trekking destinations in India include Dzukou Valley, Chembra Peak, Gurez Valley, and Ziro Valley which are still considered to be unexplored.
Which are the best places for holidaying as a family?
The best places for people looking to have a peaceful vacation, culture, and adventure are Chitkul, Mainpat, Velas, and Polo Forest.
Which is the right time for visiting these offbeat places?
All places can be visited from October to March, whereas Himalayan destinations can be enjoyed from May to September.
Why travel off the beaten path?
Offbeat travel provides unique cultural exposure, less crowd, chance to help the locals, and sustainability in exploration of India’s unique diversity.
