25 Offbeat Destinations in India for an Awesome Experience

Tired of the known tourist trails? Seeking to get away to a new place? The offbeat destinations in India offer an awesome experience. Escape the hustle-bustle of cities and indulge in incredible experiences.

Vacations in these lesser-known locales of the country are truly memorable. Avoid crowds, explore raw natural beauty and unusual cultures, and get to experience a plethora of new things.

Nowadays, more and more people are looking for destinations off the charted routes. Furthermore, the offbeat destinations in India offer the thrill of a relaxing getaway but also some cherished memories.

Offbeat Places to Visit in India

Here is a list of 25 offbeat destinations in India that are known for an awesome experience:

1.Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
2.Halebid, Karnataka
3.Chembra Peak, Kerala
4.Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
5.Majuli, Assam
6.Champaner – Pavagadh, Gujarat
7.Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
8.Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
9.Gokarna, Karnataka
10.Patan, Gujarat
11.Manas National Park, Assam
12.Varkala, Kerala
13.Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
14.Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
15.Tadoba, Maharashtra
16.Lunglei, Mizoram
17.Mokokchung, Nagaland
18.Talasari Beach, Odisha
19.Bundi, Rajasthan
20.Devprayag, Uttarakhand
21.Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
22.Chopta, Uttarakhand
23.Kalimpong, West Bengal
24.Nubra Valley, Ladakh
25.Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

1. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Mawlynnong in Meghalaya, is one of the must visit offbeat places in India. Blessed with the charm of North East India, Mawlynnong has been awarded as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. The eco-friendly village community will give you some amazing lessons on life.

The scenic bliss of the town is refreshing for your senses. There are waterfalls to visit, caves to explore and most importantly walk on the Living Roots Bridge. Created out of the roots of the trees, the bridges are truly a wonder. Don’t’ stop at just this town, backpack throughout Meghalaya.

2. Halebid, Karnataka

Halebid in Karnataka is one of the ancient temple towns of South India. The town is untouched by tourist crowds, therefore a beautiful offbeat experience. Known as Dwarasamudra, gateway to the seas, Halebid is the capital of the Hoysala Dynasty for about 150 years.

Sacked by the armies of Malik Kafur in the early 14th century, the town fell into a state of ruin. Even in the ravaged state, the town’s glory still remains undiminished. Spend time exploring the temple ruins of Halebid. You can also combine your tour with a visit to Belur along with Jain monuments at Shravanabelagola.

Find Karnataka tour packages here:

3. Chembra Peak, Kerala

An exciting trekking trip, the Chembra Peak in Kerala is one of the best offbeat destinations in India. It is located in Wayanad district, at 6,900 ft in the lush lap of misty Western Ghats. The peak is popular for adventure enthusiast trekkers and nature lovers. In fact, to get to the peak it’s mandatory to get permission passes from the Forest Department for the safety of trekkers and preservation of wildlife.

En-route to the peak, a heart shaped lake locally named Hridaya Saras, enchants the visitors. From the peak you can enjoy panoramic views.

4. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

One of the most beautiful places in Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is blessed with beauty, bliss and incredible experiences. Away from the touristy trails, Ziro is among the beautiful offbeat destinations in India.

Also Read : Things to do in Ziro

Puffy white clouds float in the horizon. Beautiful green patches and rice fields are visible as far as the eye can see. ion addition, the Apatani tribe welcomes you with their friendly smiles and you would love to know their way of life. The Ziro music festival is a great time to visit. Don’t just visit Ziro stay there as a local.

5. Majuli, Assam

The largest river island in the world, Majuli is one of those places you must visit once in a lifetime. Located on the banks of Brahmaputra River, the island spread over 421.65 square kilometers is one of the must visit place in Assam. The island of Majuli is only accessible via ferries which can be taken from Jorhat.

Also Read: Best Time To Visit Majuli

One of the potential contenders of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Majuli has a unique culture. Mostly tribals inhabit the lands. In addition, festivals, food and the serene charm are the highlights of the town.

Recommended for you : Things to do in Jorhat

6. Champaner – Pavagadh, Gujarat

One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Champaner is a historical treasure. Nestled in the Pavagadh hills, this one of the interesting offbeat places to visit in Gujarat. Here you can actually imagine the olden days. The Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a delight of Hindu and Islamic styles of designs which date from the 8th to 16th century. The ruins include agricultural buildings, mosques, and a fortress. This site was once an important religious shrine and point of pilgrimage. Despite its ruinous condition today, it is as special as it is intriguing.

[Also read about best places to travel in India by Month.]

7. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Away from the touristy towns of Himachal, Khajjiar is an unexplored beauty. The offbeat town in Himachal Pradesh is known as “Mini Switzerland of India”. Beautiful, yet blessed with serene charm the town is replete with hills, lakes and meadows.

Trek in the scenic environs or go for long walks, it’s absolutely blissful. Visitors can also partake in various adventure sports like paragliding, horse-riding, zorbing and the like. Khajjiar can be easily visited throughout the year, the summers are pleasant while the winters come with snow. When the cities become too much for you, escape to Khajjiar.

8. Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Ladakh is itself offbeat, favored by adventure lovers. One of the less talked about places in Ladakh, Hemis is a beautiful place surrounded by snowcapped ranges all around. Pay a visit to the Hemis Gompa. The monastery is beautiful and one needs to spend time here. The Hemis National Park, the home to the snow leopard is thrilling. Carry your camera, if luck favors you can capture a click. Hemis makes you forget buzzing cities. Enjoy the simple pleasures and spend night stargazing, you will truly love it.

9. Gokarna, Karnataka

Of the many beautiful beach towns, Gokarna is one of the offbeat secrets of India. Famous for its pristine, unspoilt beaches, Gokarna is a temple town primarily, with a slow and relaxed atmosphere, which makes for a very pleasurable offbeat holiday. Away from crowds, the shores of the Karnataka town is drenched is beach bliss. Hire a motorbike and explore the town. Pay a visit to the ancient temples. Enjoy watching the sunrise and sunset. Go for a swim in the waters anytime. The shacks on the beach have great food, great music and interesting people.

[Also read the 12 Offbeat Places to Visit in Karnataka]

10. Patan, Gujarat

One of the newest addition to India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Patan in Gujarat will make for a lovely offbeat holiday places to travel to. Dating back to 745 AD, Patan, the former capital of the Chandva Rulers is dotted with lovely temples, lakes, and beautiful step walls. Ran Ki Vav being the most prominent one. Built in the 11th century, this grand step-well of Maru-Gurjara architectural style is designed as an inverted temple as obeisance to life-giving water. Patan is quite famous for Patola sarees, one of the finest hand-made textiles in the world.

[Check-out amazing Gujarat tour packages]

11. Manas National Park, Assam

A gem of North East, Manas National Park at the foothills of the Bhutan-Himalayas in the state of Assam is one of the awesome experience. It is one of the first reserves of Project Tiger in 1973 blessed with unique biodiversity and landscape. The wildlife sanctuary has substantial population of Royal Bengal Tigers and was inscribed as World Heritage Site. The last species of Pygmy Hog survive in the wilderness of Manas and nowhere else in the world. It is one of the offbeat places in India, where adventure abounds and tourist can have a wonderful time.

[Check-out some of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India]

12. Varkala, Kerala

Snuggled on the shores of Arabian Sea, Varkala in Kerala is a quaint paradise. Replete with clear, pristine beaches, hills, shrines, lighthouses, the beach town is one of the best offbeat places in India. Once you are here, pay a visit to Papanasam beach, where sadhus perform holy rituals. A holy spring flows by where pilgrims take a cleansing bath. Treat yourself to adventure sports like paragliding and parasailing. Escape the cities, the crowded shores and come to Varkala for a quiet vacation. Opt for Ayurveda or learn yoga and meditation. Go swimming, sunbathing or just sit on the shores.

[You may also check some of the most beautiful beaches in Kerala]

13. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

A name which completes the list of amazing offbeat destinations in India, Mandu in Madhya Pradesh is not just a place, but an experience one must not miss. The town of Mandu is testament to the love between Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. One can actually relive the days of the bygone era here. Explore the awe-inspiring Islamic architectural brilliance displayed in Mandu Fort, Jahaz Mahal, Jami Masjid, Hindola Mahal, Baz Bahadur’s Palace, Rewa Kund etc. The slow soothing pace of Mandu makes your forget the concepts of time, you are in a world of its own.

14. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

The scenic town of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh comprises the charm of North East India. Popularly known as the birth place of the sixth Dalai Lama, the picturesque town is a holy site of Tibetan Buddhism in India. Visit the Tawang Monastery and Taktsang Gompa for bliss. Adventure also abounds here. Visit the Sela pass, Bumla Pass, the ethereal Shonga-tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls and Pankang Teng Tso Lake. The magnificent Gorichen Peak inspires adventure with us. Scaling the heights is an ultimate challenge. Tawang offers one of the best offbeat vacations in India.

[Check-out Arunachal Pradesh tour packages]

15. Tadoba, Maharashtra

Unexplored and abundantly blessed with plenty of wildlife, we come to the next offbeat destination India on our list, Tadoba. The town in Maharashtra is known for Tadoba National Park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Tadoba Lake, Erai dam, Moharli and Khosla village. It is often named as the ‘Jewel of Vidarbha’. Perfect for wildlife vacations and to spend time away from cities, Tadoba is one of the best kept Tiger Reserves in India and the largest in Maharashtra. Go for safaris or opt for a jungle stay.

Find best Maharashtra tour pacakges:

16. Lunglei, Mizoram

A true offbeat town, Lunglei is the second largest city in the beautiful state of Mizoram. It is a mix of natural beauty, attractions and delights in the quaint corner of North East India. Things to do on an offbeat vacation in Lunglei include visit the stone bridge after which the town gets its name. Spend time exploring Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the unique species. Do visit the Saikuti Hall. Here you can enjoy a glimpse of the intriguing heritage of Mizoram through art, concerts and celebrations.

17. Mokokchung, Nagaland

Tribal, rustic and an experience of a lifetime, Mokokchung in Nagaland is one of the top offbeat destinations in India for an awesome experience. Home of the Ao tribe, the town is cultural and intellectual capital of Nagaland. It is known for rich hospitality, rich traditions and festivals. The attractions to check out in this offbeat town comprise of Changkikong Range, Langpangkong, Fusen Kei and Mongzu Ki Caves, Changtongya, Longkhum Village, Longritzu Lenden Valley, Tangkum Marok Spring, Mokokchung District Museum, Mokokchung Park, etc. Just arrive with your bags and these friendly folks will make sure that you have a great time.

[Plan a wonderful holiday with Nagaland tour packages]

18. Talasari Beach, Odisha

Almost a secret, as it is very less frequented, the Talasari beach is one of those offbeat places vacations are unforgettable memories. The shores are calm and peaceful. Talasari fascinates tourists with its backwaters, which one needs to cross to reach the sea. The tropical weather all year round makes it a popular destination for those looking for solitude. The scenic charm is something you cherish on your stay. The estuary of the Subarnarekha River is seen in a distance further adding to its beauty. There are very few tourist facilities which further enhance its charm.

[Explore the most important places in Orissa with our well planned Orissa tour packages]

19. Bundi, Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of the most visited places in India. One of the small towns in the state, Bundi is one of the best places for an offbeat getaway. The 12th century town is known for magnificent palaces and havelis, wonderful forts and temples. Take a look at awe-inspiring paintings at Chitrashala. Explore the relics of the old days. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the desert town. The Bundi Festival is a spectacular culmination of traditional art, culture and crafts, which is a good time to plan your trip. The mix of desert life and a glimpse of colorful culture await at Bundi.

20. Devprayag, Uttarakhand

Devprayag is a place of holy confluence of two sacred rivers namely Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. The merger in turns form the most worshipped river in our country, River Ganga. The celestial town is positioned at an elevation of 830 metres above sea level.

Pay a visit to the holy places such as Sangam, Raghunath Ji Temple, Dhaneshwar Mahadev temple, Danda Nagaraja temple. It is the winter home of Pandas, the priests of Badrinath. Adventure lovers can also indulge in activities such as white-water river rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, trekking and rappelling.

21. Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

Hidden in the high altitudes of Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is one of the offbeat places you must visit once in a lifetime. Located at an altitude of 14,931 ft, it has a challenging personality. If you are seeking adventure, solace or to escape the cities, then Spiti is definitely where you should be. The stark mountains have spots of green which are dotted with ancient monasteries. in addition,trekking, camping, mountain biking and other adventures enhance the thrill. Spend time in the villages of Ki, Kibber, Kaza, etc. Take a bike trip from Manali to Spiti for a memorable holiday.

[Check-out other Offbeat Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh]

22. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Chopta is a scenic hill station in Uttarakhand. In contrast to the tourist crowded hill towns, Chopta is relatively unknown. Watch the snow-covered peaks in the backdrop. The green slopes and grassy meadows have a relaxed vibe.

It is certainly a perfect spot to take a break from the city life. Enjoy the lesser pleasures of life in the picturesque town. If you are keen on adventure then Chopta serves as a base to trek to Tungnath temple and the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary.

You can also trek to Chandrashila peak. Enjoy natural bliss on your offbeat holiday in Uttarakhand.

23. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Kalimpong is one of beautiful hill stations of North East India. The town in West Bengal is off the charted tourist routes. A little way from Darjeeling, you can enjoy an idyllic offbeat vacation here. Enjoy the picturesque bliss of mountains.

Above all, the exclusive views of the striking snow laden Himalayas are awe-inspiring. If you seek to escape the demanding city life, the town definitely goes for a rejuvenating aura. Go for walks through towering pine trees and rolling hills with the chirping birds for company. The pure mountain air helps you discover inner peace.

[Find a comprehensive Kalimpong travel guide]

24. Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Truly a miracle of nature, Nubra Valley in Ladakh is one of the true offbeat places in India. The valley in Ladakh is a unique site; in fact a fusion of a desert, lush fields and a small town. A visit to Nubra valley opens a multitude of opportunities.

Explore the desert complete with sand dunes inhabited by double humped Bactrian camels. Enjoy the scenery of lush greenery fed by two rivers. In addition, discover quaint villages at the foothills of ancient monasteries. An incredible experience, Nubra Valley is one of the most amazing locations in India and one you must visit.

25. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is one of the most beautiful offbeat places one can visit in the country. The entire valley is titled an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is blessed with indigenous mountain flowers, insects, butterflies and avifauna.

In the rainy season, the valley looks like a carpet of flowers as almost 300 species of flowers in every possible shade bloom in the valley. You can reach the valley only after trekking. Once you have seen the breathtaking beauty you will not find it hard to imagine heaven.

Debashree Chakraborty

A travel writer by profession and self-professed addict to literature and travelling. Go through her penned down travel experiences on indianholiday.com