Often, India's large cities attract international travelers, which makes sense for first-time visitors. Yet, you may be missing out on lesser-known hidden places outside the city limits. Though comfortable in the urban hubs, compelling reasons exist to venture beyond.
Discovering rural areas and smaller towns lets you experience India unfiltered. We found culture and history throughout the country, not only in the big cities. These oft hidden places we share with you; they make for amazing quick getaways.
Immersing yourself anywhere in India reveals the region's rich heritage. We've uncovered some hidden highlights perfect for your holiday inspiration:
What we love about India the most is how Kashmir makes you feel, once you are in the wilderness. The country is perfect for those who want to experience a nature trail. Sightseeing, a watching eye for wildlife or for great mountains and deep valleys.
If you are short on holiday ideas, then our guide is what you are looking for.
There are only small villages with a population of several thousand. But measure Kanatal for the great beauty, for a more laidback Himalayas, off the beaten track. The hidden jewel of Uttarakhand often touted too. It has to be amazing; you think? It was for us, for many reasons.
Uttarakhand has always felt a magical place. The impact from 2D1N on Mussoorie Hill Station is ever lasting. To our way of thinking, traveling through India, the villages are the perfect getaway. The villages located high up in the hills, over 2,500m above sea level.
Even during the best of an Indian summer, it can be chilly at such elevations. Definitely, as the snow falls from late November through to February prepare yourself. Be sure to pack warm clothing.
Like Coorg District, getting out of the cities takes you closer to India's natural beauty. This is why Kanatal makes our list: for the outdoor adventurers. There is a multitude of outdoor activities to keep you entertained on holiday. Be that your time is a few days or even a whole week, you can expect to enjoy:
The best way of reaching Kanatal is from the Mussoorie Hill Station, only 45Km to the east. You'll pick up any taxi from the hill station to take you the 50-minute journey for under US$20 per trip.
Pro Tip: When holidaying in India, always haggle on your taxi fare, and pay in local currency where you can. And agree the driver pays any road tolls before setting off, that's very important.
For the summer, visit between April and June.
The best time for skiing in these hill station areas of Kanatal is from mid to late January. February is also a great choice, convenient for a Valentine surprise break. If you are a keen skier and would love a chance to experience India, then do consider Uttarakhand. Remember to book flights and hotel in advance though, ahead of the rush.
Dare yourself to visit Srinagar, for the Dal Lake, we tease you.
Nestled amidst the majestic snow-capped Himalayas, Dal Lake is a sight to behold. Over a thousand glaciers feed its crystal waters, offering you unparalleled views.
The lake is a one-of-a-kind experience.
As you glide across the lake by boat, the mountains reflect off the mirror-like surface. We found the lakes peacefulness to be tranquil, and unforgettable. The wooden houseboats lining its shores provide cozy accommodations, intimate and luxurious.
We have stayed in a city hotel in the center of Srinagar, on our first holiday. Which made us very happy and stayed in one of those houseboats on the lake, on a second holiday. Hands down, the houseboat was more amazing.
Nothing, ever, could beat the lakeside sunset over the Himalayas. So, please do your darndest to secure a houseboat for your stay in Srinagar City. The lake is only 10km from the city, it's no hassle at all for you.
Beyond the lake, the friendly locals and flavorsome cuisine showcase Kashmiri hospitality. Srinagar City serves as the gateway to this stunning region. It's where natural beauty and rich history await eager explorers.
The Gurez Valley lies deep in the heart of the Himalayas, 125km from Srinagar City. Before embarking on your journey, take note:
Go with a reputable tour operator because they provide updates and adjust plans in real time for you.
Beyond the winter skiing, trails lead in all directions out from Dawar Town. One such route ascends to Khandiyal Point, revealing 360° panoramic views. On the descent, the return to town fills you with great emotion, holidaying in the Himalayas.
The Gurez Valley remains undeveloped, though tourism initiatives are underway. All across Kashmir, the villages speckle the valleys and hillsides. Local communities gear up to greet and welcome tourists. Backpackers and groups camping, especially are the first to encounter the remote villagers.
The best time is a short window, the months of June, July and August for a trouble-free summer holiday break. Serious about Gurez Valley during winter? The sensible way to reach the skiing peaks close to Dawar Town is by helicopter.
The cost of hire of the helicopter (per person) is about US$50 one way. You can fly from Srinagar City, so it isn't inaccessible to small, organized groups.
Read Also: 12 Most Beautiful Lakes for Nature, in India
The thrill-seekers among you can look forward to visiting Kabini Wildlife Sancturary with great delight. We had another fantastic holiday experience filled with an exciting safari. We're positive you will too:
The area is ideal for camping, trekking and cycling, or mountain biking if you prefer. You will have no trouble either, finding excellent quality safari style wildlife accommodation. That's because there are many resorts close to the national parks, meeting all budgets.
The easy way of getting to Kabini without fuss is from Bangalore City. You stay over in Mysore City for a city break, of course. And then make a day trip of it to Kabini, that's what we did from Mysore City.
You'll find it's Mysore City that's closer, anyway making it more convenient. When in Mysore, we recommend you pay a visit also to the Brindavan Gardens. It's a 3-hour train ride from Bangalore to Mysore and return tickets cost US$20 per person.
To reach the national park, it's a 30-minute taxi ride, which you shouldn't pay more than US$10 one way.
The Nagarhole National Park, located 33km from Mysore City.
This park offers an exciting wildlife safari experience, that's very true. For families, with kids especially, it's a fun and exciting time. The safari park is all about anticipating sightings of tigers, elephants, and more. The drama takes place amidst the park's lush, shaded forests.
Of all the things you could imagine seeing and do from Bangalore City, this safari is close to the top of the list.
Does Bangalore City have an international airport? Yes, 30km from the city center. Kempegowda International Airport accepts flights from the US and Europe often. You shouldn't have any trouble traveling to the city, without requiring domestic connections.
Visakhapatnam marks a change from the inland locations we've covered so far. Interest now moves towards the shores of the Bay of Bengal.
The attractive port city pulls visitors in with charm. Bordered by the eastern Ghats, Visakhapatnam City brims with top attractions. It also lies close to another favorite haunt of ours, Coorg Hill Station. Be sure to check out our travel guide for that scenic spot (link below).
With the sea on one side and mountains on the other, Visakhapatnam has something for everyone:
The city has lots of activities, things to see and do. The Bay of Bengal's coastline offers endless options for beach holidays. What's amazing to know is there's almost 1000km of coastline to enjoy, can you imagine a road trip?
The warm turquoise waters and sandy beaches offer you plenty of reasons don swimwear. The beaches to look out for are:
We can recommend visiting Katiki Waterfall, which offers an idyllic setting. If you plan to see Borra Caves, the waterfall is a short distance away, 7km. So many visitors combine the two sights and enjoy a picnic between them. For the best experience that we wanted, we rented a motorbike for the day.
If you're solo traveling, or as a couple that's a sound piece of advice. Otherwise, if you are vacationing with kids a tour is the best option.
That's because of the 90km journey to reaching the waterfall, from the city. The sounds of the 50-meter waterfall and birdsong create a serene atmosphere. Whilst you are picnicking among the lush greenery it's so soothing of the senses.
It's a very therapeutic day out for everyone, very relaxing. And that's what we wanted actually, a change from the beaches from the previous day.
The thought of not exploring an ancient cave along with the waterfall shouldn't occur to you. It's not one or the either, but both or nothing at all. Formed millions of years ago, the stalactite and stalagmite almost always increase interest.
We made sure to visit the Ananthagiri Hills in Araku Valley early, before the crowds gathered.
The caves are world famous by the way, attracting not only international tourists. Large numbers of domestic tourists travel far and wide too. They are eager to see the Shiva-Parvati and other rock formations for themselves.
Several hundred steps lead up to the cave entrance, they are neither steep nor difficult to climb. Araku Valley itself boasts stunning scenery and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Could you consider staying in a local homestay? Spend more of your time in the valley beyond visiting the caves.
It was unfortunate we couldn't, but we would have if it were possible.
The indigenous tribes are more than happy to show visitors the valley's hidden gems. For an authentic holiday experience, accept their hospitality without hesitation.
To satisfy your curiosity, the Andaman Islands are off the coast of the Bay of Bengal.
If you want more beaches, you can take a flight from Visakhapatnam City to the Andaman Islands. In only 3 hours, you'll land at Veer Savarkar International Airport. Once you lear customs, soon you'll be unpacking in your Port Blair hotel.
It's actually more convenient for the Andaman Islands. You extend your Visakhapatnam City vacation a day or two more, for a paradise getaway. It's the easiest way.
Related Reading: Your Holiday on the Andaman Islands
What is genuinely amazing about India is all the hill stations built during the British colonial period. They were built for various reasons, for example:
After India gained independence, hill stations were fortunate to continue as an escape. With the heat of the Indian summer, you need to make a hasty retreat. Shillong City possesses the same two alluring qualities as any hill station:
Because a hill station offers pleasant weather and scenic views, they attract tourists. As many are domestic as they are international travelers. You must never underestimate the power of a hill station.
If you and your family decide on a brief stay at a hill station, we recommend this one for our travel guide. Surrounding the lake are walking and cycling paths. The lake is perfect for leisure and pleasure, for morning or evening strolls. Before leaving Shillong for good, we visited Lady Hydari Park. The meticulously maintained gardens serve as a premier attraction in the city. Be sure to visit yourself, it's worthwhile your time to do so.
Apart from boating on either of the two nearest lakes, there are a multitude of other activities to fill your days:
There's an active, vibrant nightlife as well in the town, all ages catered for. For the best holiday experience to any hill station, don't fret about having something to do. That's never a problem with any of India's hill stations, believe us.
We've been to a lot and never once were we faced with nothing to do.
Because of the rugged beauty, many of the British were from Scotland. The Shillong landscape reminded the Scots of back home. For that reason, Shillong became known as "Scotland of the East". If you've ever holidayed in the Scottish Highlands, you'll see remarkable similarities.
And Scotland is beautiful for sure, for the glens and lochs are world renowned. As are the annoying midges.
On leaving Shillong, what you will remember? Above all else, for us it was the forest trails and waterfalls. Because we love natural beauty and Shillong has it in spades.
There is this hill station in Kashmir which is ideal as a top winter destination. Lots of regular fresh snow fall, which is great for skiing enthusiasts.
So popular is this hill station, Gulmarg, the breezy winds and cold temperatures put few off. We've been there for a brief couple of days, and it's cold, we'll vouch for that. If you're a huge fan of skiing and relish new grounds then arrange travel for January or February, but no later. Fresh snow blankets the steep mountains, ready for those who are daring enough.
Waiting until after New Year allows the snow to accumulate. The perfect powdery snow on Gulmarg's majestic slopes enhances the enjoyment of skiing.
It's quite feasible for you to find adequate accommodation. Within the vicinity of Gulmarg you can expect to pay as little as US$20 per night, for a room with basic services.
Realistically, it's much better to pay more for enhanced enjoyment, such as:
Understandably, paying a little more can lead to greater enjoyment.
Our hotel stay was only $43 per night, and the location was convenient, near the town center. Other expenses like renting ski gear and dining out were also quite affordable. Yet, costs can add up. Particularly with the Gondola rides, which offer two routes ranging from $10-$25 per ticket.
It's wise to set and stick to a daily budget to avoid overspending.
The best way to reach the ski resorts of Gulmarg is from Srinagar, our favorite city in Kashmir. Upon landing, hire a jeep or van for the 50-kilometer journey to Gulmarg. This usually takes about 90 minutes but expect longer. If arriving at Srinagar by late afternoon, it's better to stay the night in the city:
Relax and unwind. Chill out before the long journey to the slopes.
Generations of Indians have grown up with a secret. The secret is knowing some of the best surfing beaches are in Varkala City. And since international travel becomes affordable, enthusiastic surfers are flocking to the city.
Renowned for surfing, there is much more to Varkala, in fact:
Set aside 2D1N at least for this charming little city. You can do so as part of a larger itinerary to the nearby Kerala backwaters.
It's astonishing that all across Kerala there are many Ayurvedic spas. And a large number of massage centers, and yoga retreats. All offering pampering treatments and self-care for health-conscious tourists.
Many of the Varkala Ayurveda programs are expensive and may come with additional charges, be wary. The programs run for days on end, meaning your stay is prolonged.
Varkala is worth a few days at least. We've had amazing times in Kerala, partly in thanks to Varkala City. Despite having no interest in the surfing, it was marvelous, nonetheless. The beaches are gorgeous for swimming and relaxation.
Kerala has direct flight options for international traveling from the US and Europe. This is perfect because tourists can travel without a domestic connecting flight. This convenience benefits tourists who wish to fly direct to Kerala.
What if you're vacationing elsewhere in India? You should take note the following flight times:
The majority of domestic flights to Kerala will land at Kochi International Airport.
When traveling in India it feels good knowing you can trust the transport networks. That's especially true with the domestic airlines. The network connecting the cities is easy and hassle free, it's amazing.
What more could be amazing? Cheap taxis taking you from the airport to your hotel, when there are no shuttle services.
Staying within the Kerala area, there is the Vagamon Hill Station for those among you who are enthusiastic about the great outdoors. If one of the backwater cruises puts you in the mood for adventure, then head to this station. As with any hill station ― Gulmarg, or Shimla for example ― you can expect deep valleys carpeted in dense, lush green forests.
Incredible feelings, waking up early in the morning to mist rising above the forest canopy. Birds are alive with song, and the wildlife come out of their slumber. Staying in one of India's hill stations is therapeutic and very mindful, and extremely relaxing and settling for family. Which is why so many Indians choose to vacate the city at the weekend, and escape to their nearest hill station.
This hill station is 100km, or 3 hours, distant from Kochi (Cochin) City. There are rail links but we would prefer you to journey by private taxi for the jaw dropping scenery you'll come across. Not to mention the comfort, as Indian trains are notorious for being crowded. You should expect to pay in the region of US$20 for a taxi.
Many tourists trapse their way to Kolahalamedu Hill, as do international amateur and professional sports enthusiasts, for the paragliding. The terrain makes it perfect for the updrafts to carry you long and far. Even if you are not brave enough to try it yourself, the trek there is worth it to enjoy a great atmosphere. Those who are brave to have a go are grateful for the spectators coming along to egg them on.
Also, within the Kerala area is Munnar Hill Station and it could be argued which one is best, and better. It's really difficult to decide one or the other because many of the hill stations share similarities. Vagamon and Munnar both have gorgeous landscapes and a lake, but Munnar has the Eravikulam National Park with its endangered goats. Our suggestion is to simply toss a coin: if it's heads, go to Vagamon and tails, it's Munnar, preventing any argument.
Because both are sensible extensions to your Kerala holiday.
With Vagamon being 1100m above sea level you can expect temperatures to range from as low as 55°F to highs of 76°F. When holidaying in any of India's hill stations (not only Vagamon), pack as if you are in a cooler climate, despite India being a warm country.
A lot of the year, regardless of the month, you can expect rain but don't let that put you off. It's perfectly normal for India's hill stations to receive rainfall, and why the landscapes are a gorgeous, vibrant green. The rain experienced in Vagamon is light and drizzly making it perfect for slow romantic walks. But don't visit during the monsoon season, which arrives in June and lasts until September.
Rather, you should plan your holiday for early November, through to March. Take note that Kerala has two monsoon seasons:
Our advice is to plan any Kerala holiday for the Christmas and New Year period, to also include an amazing one night, two days stay at Vagamon (or Munnar if you prefer) hill station.
Another majestic hill station in the north of India. Shimla belongs to the Himalayas, and of course adorned with natural beauty. A hugely popular holiday destination for families and couples, we suggest you plan your holiday between early March and late June for the best of the weather. That's the best time for being outdoors at this hill station.
Views from most of India's hill stations are always sensational, and Shimla is no different. There are outcrops of buildings on the steep hillsides in all directions, blending in perfectly with the green forest backdrop. What many imagine about India's hill stations are that the a) road networks are poor and ill maintained, b) little amenities and services, c) it's for those who love the great outdoors.
True, the hill stations are pure magic for spending time outdoors, exploring and enjoying nature. But there is no truth to the two other points: road networks are developed and stable and hotels and restaurants, and so on are very inviting. Don't be put off by going to a hill station for a few days, a week's holiday.
There is always a lot that can be crammed into your short stay in any of India's hill stations. In Shimla, there is the usual trekking trails leading you through the forests, upwards to waterfalls and great view points but also:
The very best time for a stroll when holidaying in a hill station is in the pre-dawn morning, before sunrise. You experience the mist as you walk along the many forest trails, it's truly magical to be alone with nature.
Pausing for long moments on the trail, looking far out over the canopy when a view point can be found is surreal. What a stroll does is to invigorate your senses, lightening your mood. A brief walk of 20 minutes or so greatly increases your "feelgood" factor.
The hill station is perfect for a holiday break. There is a Himalayan Nature Wildlife Park, a Bird Wildlife Sanctuary and a golf course. What more could one ask for? Direct flights from Delhi to Shimla are available, so there is no excuse for not visiting when on holiday in Delhi.
Finally, at long last we reach Diu Island. The small Island that is separated from the mainland by a slither of water is not so well known of. Little attention is given to it, nor made about it. Not when the Andaman Islands are the rock star attraction. The Island is relatively small, making it the perfect weekend getaway when holidaying in either Ahmedabad or Mumbai.
Flight times are typically under 2 hours, from you leaving Ahmedabad airport to going to your Diu Island hotel. It's even better were you to holiday in Mumbai, then it's an hour's flight to this small paradise Island. Smaller than Pamban Island, by half as much again almost, Diu Island still is interesting. Buy why bother with it? It's because of the Portuguese colonial past, that's why.
To be more precise, the architecture and cuisine both continue to lark back to those old days of European rule. If history and culture interest you, that's all the better. And anyway, there are the three top most gorgeous beaches for you:
Nagoa Beach is the most famous on the Island, and therefore the most crowded too. The azure blue waters are warm and inviting, the soft white sand a pleasure to walk and play on. Once settled into your hotel and you've unpacked, find yourself in Bucharwada Village, just a few kilometers out of Diu Town itself. The beach and village are hugely popular with domestic tourists so you are guaranteed an excellent family friendly atmosphere.
If you have children in tow, then definitely do come to the Island for the tropical paradise experience, for them, because activities include:
And so much more. The shoreline is shaded by large coverage from palm trees, and the sea breeze is really cooling, permitting you to lounge in comfort. The beach setting is beautiful, you can be as active as you want, or as lazy in the shade. Quality resorts, restaurants and food vendors are never far away.
Each and every location we have listed in this guide is ideal, and perfect for a few days' escape. Even if you decide to holiday in a location for longer, there are enough attractions to keep you happy, entertained and fulfilled. When holidaying in India, you are certainly never going to be bored or lost for anything to do, that's for sure.
And it shows you, we are hopeful, there is far more to an Indian holiday than just holidaying in one of the major cities. Sure, the best shopping experiences are all there, in a city but India is such a huge country. There is far more to discover once you leave behind the metropolitan hustle and bustle. Escape the noise to seek tranquility in these hidden, lesser-known places ― we dare you.
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