Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Summary: Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh’s trans-Himalayan area, is a wild and mountainous landscape filled with old monasteries, charming villages, and breathtaking scenery. This high-altitude desert provides unmatched trekking opportunities and an insight into traditional Tibetan culture.
Best Time to Visit: The greatest time to visit Spiti Valley is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, the roads are accessible, and the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way galaxy.
How to Reach: The nearest airport to the valley of Spiti is Kullu, which is roughly 210 kilometers away. Alternatively, travelers can access by road from Manali or Shimla. The nearest railway station is in Shimla, approximately 420 kilometers from Spiti Valley.
Geolocation: Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India
Transportation: Limited public transportation is available in Spiti Valley. Shared taxis and buses operate from major towns like Manali and Shimla. However, it’s advisable to hire a private vehicle car, bike or join a guided tour for easier exploration.
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Summary: Nestled in the northeastern region of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is a lush haven known for its unspoiled splendour and lively indigenous customs. This peaceful valley, which is surrounded by rice fields and beautiful vegetation, is home to the Apatani tribe and is the site of the well-known Ziro Music Festival.
Best Time to Visit: The greatest time to visit Spiti Valley is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, the roads are accessible, and the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way galaxy.
How to Reach: The nearest airport to Ziro Valley is in Lilabari, approximately 100 kilometers away. Alternatively, travelers can also reach via road from Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. The nearest railway station is in Naharlagun, around 100 kilometers from Ziro Valley.
Geolocation: Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Public Transportation: Ziro Valley has few public transit options, such as shared taxis and buses. For a more convenient exploration of the valley, consider hiring a private vehicle or taking a guided tour.
Gokarna, Karnataka, India
Summary: Gokarna, a seaside resort in Karnataka, provides a calm substitute for Goa’s busy beaches. Travelers seeking seclusion and spirituality should not miss Gokarna, a hidden gem with its immaculate beaches, charming shacks, and laid-back ambiance. Gokarna offers a revitalizing getaway away from the tourist throng, whether you’re seeing historic temples or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches.
Best Time to Visit: Gokarna is best visited between October and March, when the weather is nice and the beaches are perfect for water sports and tanning.
How to Reach: The nearest airport to Gokarna is in Goa, approximately 140 kilometers away. From there, travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gokarna. The nearest railway station is in Ankola, around 20 kilometers from Gokarna. Additionally, regular buses ply from major cities like Bangalore and Mangalore to Gokarna.
Geolocation:Gokarna, Karnataka, India, India
Public Transportation: Gokarna is well-connected by buses and taxis, making it easy for travelers to explore the town and its surrounding areas. Local buses and auto-rickshaws are available for short distances, while taxis and rental bikes can be hired for longer journeys.
Hampi, Karnataka
Summary: Hampi, located in Karnataka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient ruins and architectural marvels. Originally the seat of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is today a vast complex of historical structures, temples, and rocks that envelop tourists in history. A remarkable window into India’s illustrious past is provided by Hampi, with its bizarre geography and extensive history.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the ruins are easily accessible for exploration.
How to Reach: The nearest airport to Hampi is in Hubli, approximately 160 kilometers away. From there, travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hampi. The nearest railway station is in Hospet, around 13 kilometers from Hampi. Additionally, regular buses ply from major cities like Bangalore and Goa to Hospet.
Hubli Airport > Hampi or Hospet Railway station > Hampi
Geolocation: Hampi, Karnataka, India
Public Transportation: Local buses and auto-rickshaws are available for transportation within Hampi. However, many visitors prefer to explore the ruins on foot or by bicycle to fully immerse themselves in the ancient ambiance of the site.
Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Summary: Khajjiar, frequently referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a charming hill station surrounded by undulating meadows and thick pine trees. For those who enjoy the outdoors but want to escape the bustle of the city, Khajjiar provides a peaceful retreat with its serene lakes, panoramic views, and thrilling pursuits like paragliding and zorbing.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Khajjiar is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the meadows are lush green.
How to Reach: The nearest airport to Khajjiar is in Dharamshala, approximately 120 kilometers away. From there, travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Khajjiar. The nearest railway station is in Pathankot, around 120 kilometers from Khajjiar. Additionally, regular buses ply from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar to Dalhousie, from where Khajjiar is just a short drive away.
Dharamshala > Khajjiar or Pathankot > khajjiar
Geolocation: Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh, India
Public Transportation: Within Khajjiar, there are taxis and local buses for transit. For easy exploration of the area, it is recommended to rent a private vehicle due to its remote location.
Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
Summary: Dzukou Valley is a natural paradise hidden away in the northeastern province of Nagaland. It is graced with emerald-green hills, seasonal flowers, and flowing streams. It is a secret treasure for adventure seekers, drawing trekkers to this unspoiled wilderness to take in its spectacular beauty and lose themselves in the peace of nature.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dzukou Valley is from June to September when the valley is carpeted with a vibrant array of wildflowers, creating a mesmerizing landscape.
How to Reach: The closest airport to Dzukou Valley is located 74 kilometers away in Dimapur. From there, visitors can get to Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, by bus or cab. The beginning of the trip to Dzukou Valley is in the foothills close to Kohima, which is accessible from the city center with a quick drive.
Geolocation: Dzukou Valley, Nagaland, India
Public Transportation: Limited public transportation is available to reach the starting point of the Dzukou Valley trek. However, most visitors prefer to hire a taxi or join a guided tour for a more convenient and hassle-free experience.
Chettinad, Tamil Nadu
Summary: : Renowned for its opulent mansions, ancient temples, and delectable cuisine, Chettinad is a treasure trove of South Indian heritage and culture. Explore the ornate architecture of its palatial homes, savor traditional Chettinad dishes, and unravel the mysteries of this charming region, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and food enthusiasts alike.
Best Time to Visit: The closest airport to Chettinad is about 80 kilometers distant in Madurai. From there, visitors can get to Chettinad by bus or cab. Approximately 12 kilometers away from Chettinad lies Karaikudi, home of the closest train station. Regular buses also travel to Karaikudi from big cities like Bangalore and Chennai.
How to Reach: Local buses and auto-rickshaws have good transportation within Chettinad. However, hiring a taxi or self-driving is recommended for exploring the nearby villages and attractions.
Geolocation: Chettinad, Tamil Nadu, India
Public Transportation: Limited public transportation is available to reach the starting point of the Dzukou Valley trek. However, most visitors prefer to hire a taxi or join a guided tour for a more convenient and hassle-free experience.
Gurez Valley, Jammu and Kashmir
Summary: Gurez Valley, a natural paradise endowed with stunning scenery and a dynamic culture, is tucked away in the isolated Himalayan area of Jammu and Kashmir. Gurez Valley, a hidden jewel for those seeking adventure and the outdoors, offers a look into the unspoiled splendor of the Kashmiri countryside with its snow-capped hills, shimmering rivers, and ancient wooden cottages.
Best Time to Visit: Although people also enjoy December to February, the ideal months to explore Gurez Valley are May through October, when the weather is good and the valley is open for exploration.
How to Reach: About 150 kilometers distant, in Srinagar, is the closest airport to Gurez Valley. From there, visitors can go to Bandipora, the entrance of Gurez Valley, by bus or cab. Srinagar has the closest train station. Regular buses also run from Srinagar to Bandipora.
Geolocation: Gurez Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Public Transportation: Visitors prefer and it is Recommended to hire a cab service or join a guided tour for a more convenient and hassle-free experience.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Summary: Tawang is a hidden jewel set among the gorgeous Himalayas and home to the iconic Tawang Monastery, one of the world’s largest monasteries. This hallowed land is a must-visit location for anyone who enjoy both culture and the great outdoors. Explore its historic monastic structures, take in the expansive vistas of the surrounding mountains, and lose yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tawang is from April to December when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are accessible for travel.
How to Reach: Tawang’s closest airport is located at Tezpur, about 320 kilometers away. To go to Tawang from there, tourists can either take a bus or hail a cab. Tezpur has the closest train station. Regular buses also run from Tezpur to Tawang.
Geolocation: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Public Transportation: Limited public transportation is available to reach Tawang. However, most visitors prefer to hire a taxi or join a guided tour for a more convenient and enjoyable experience.
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Summary: Claimed to be the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is a secret treasure nestled within Meghalaya’s verdant surroundings. For environmentally aware tourists looking for sustainable tourism experiences, it’s a must-visit location. Marvel at its living root bridges, meander along its flower-lined pathways, and lose yourself in the friendly hospitality of the Khasi people.
Best Time to Visit: When the weather is nice and the village is in full flower, October through May are the ideal months to visit Mawlynnong.
How to Reach: Mawlynnong’s closest airport is located in Shillong, around 80 kilometers distant. From there, visitors can get to Mawlynnong via bus or cab. The closest train station is located approximately 170 kilometers from Mawlynnong in Guwahati. Furthermore, Pynursla is the destination of frequent buses that travel from big cities like Guwahati and Shillong, from which Mawlynnong is only a short drive away.
Geolocation: Mawlynnong, Meghalaya, India
Public Transportation: Prefer to hire a taxi or join a guided tour for a more convenient and enjoyable experience.