Top 10 Unexplored Places in India That Will Astonish You to the Core

India is a treasure trove of popular destinations to visit. But, only a few know that the varied nation also houses less traveled roads that lead to some unexplored places. The experience, tranquility and quietude provided by these sites are next to none! Head towards the 10 wonderful lesser-known destinations in India waiting to be explored.

1. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Find yourself amidst the sleepy and beautiful hill town, Khajjiar. The uncharted destination houses deodar forests, lakes, hills and pastures. Soak in the flawless beauty of the place while partaking in some of the adventurous activities like trekking, paragliding and zorbing etc. Khajjiar Lake, Nine-hole golf course are the top tourist spots here. Winter is avoided to plan a trip as heavy snowfall blocks the roads leading to the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’.

2. Gokarna, Karnataka

Although a Hindu pilgrimage, yet Gokarna remains little known from the bucket list of avid travelers. One of the offbeat destinations in India, this small temple town is gaining popularity slowly and steadily. The untouched beaches has brought much of the fame to this city as a beach resort. Mahabaleshwar temple, Om beach and Yanna etc. are the notable sites. Gokarna Beach offers enthralling water sports activities. Except for monsoon, all other seasons can considered best for visiting here.

3. Ponmudi, Kerala

Ponmudi means Golden Hills. The enchanting views and winding pathways of the offbeat hill station cast a magical spell on you. The aroma of tea and the emerald green tea plantations are ultimate bliss for the tea lovers. Gear up with your walking shoes and go for trekking at the Agasthayarkoodam. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Kallar and Koyikkal Palace are must visit places. November to May is the best time to visit Ponmudi.

4. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Mandu is a home to outlandish architectural masterpieces. A walk through the city is a mind-boggling experience. Relive the moment when you used to listen stories from grandparents. The legendary romance of Rani Roopmati and Baz Bahadur at Rani Roopmati Pavilion will rekindle the scenes from a romantic Bollywood movie. Madu Fort – India’s biggest Fort is an added attraction. Visit Jahaz Mahal – the ship that never sails. Although Mandu can be visited any time of the year but July to March proves to be the best.

5. Lonar, Maharashtra

Who could have imagined that on the vast state of Maharashtra there could be a hidden gem known as Lonar? The small town features a crater and a lake that was an outcome of a collision of a meteorite that held 50,000 years ago. The only salt water lake in the basaltic rock in the world is the center of attraction for many scientists and researchers. Daitya Sudan Temple and Gomukh Temple along with other places are better explored in winter season.

6. Bundi, Rajasthan

The rustic appeal of Bundi is what makes it different from the thronged cities of Rajasthan. The ‘city of stepwells’ is packed with palaces, forts and of course stepwells (baoris). The blue city of Eastern Rajasthan has inspired many notable personalities for their incredible work like Rudyard Kipling for his novel ‘Kim’, Satyajit Ray for the movie ‘Sonar Kella’ and Rabindranath Tagore for the poem ‘False Fort’. It is best to drop the plan to visit here during summer.

7. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Kalimpong is another name in the list of not so traveled destinations of India. Once here, you will change your plan to leave soon. Rather, you will prefer to spend extra time at this lovely hill station. Stunning views of Kanchenjunga, lovely flower nurseries, tranquil monasteries and the gushing Teesta River flowing between the mountains mark a long lasting impression on you. Plan a serene holiday at Kalimpong from March to June and September to December.

8. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Emerging as a superb trekking destination, Chopta is a striking hill station, and one of the most fascinating offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand. With subtle human modifications, the small town is also a heaven for wildlife enthusiasts. The nature’s bounty is dotted with thick forest trails and mystical meadows. A home to snow covered mountain peaks, the stunning valley has some other points to be explored. A trek to Tungnath Mandir and Chandrashila is worth the efforts. Summer is the best time to visit Chopta.

9. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is a perfect respite from the mayhem of the city life. Famed as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, the mountain town stupefies with its unmatched beauty. Marvel at the Sela Pass and Tawang Monastery. Cool and pleasant summer is the best time to visit.

10. Saputara, Gujarat

You won’t hear many people visiting Saputara. But the well planned hill station pleases with many sightseeing, boating and trekking opportunities. Witness the tradition of snake worshipping which has been into practice since long. Visit Saputara Lake, Artist Village and Vansda National Park and make your trip a memorable one. Plan your holiday from October to February.