Top 10 Hidden Gems to Visit in India

Want to enjoy your vacation at one of the unexplored places in India? Or, planning to spend some time at one of the offbeat places to visit in India? Then these top 10 hidden gems in India will offer you what you desire from your upcoming trip.

Who doesn’t like silence, serenity, and exploring something less crowded and less explored? But, many popular tourist attractions in India might sometimes not be as vacate as you would want, especially in the peak tourist season. So, in that case, you might want to visit places that are not very popular but offer an exemplary travel experience. So, to give you the convenience of exploring less crowded places to visit in India, we have listed here the top 10 hidden gems to visit in India. These are the places that are not very famous or crowded but are stunning and worth visiting. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Laitmawsiang, Meghalaya

The first hidden gem on our list is Laitmawsiang, a small village in Meghalaya, the abode of clouds. Lush green hills, waterfalls, caves, and natural pools surround this village. The best part is that you can enjoy the beauty of nature without any noise or pollution. You can also experience the local culture and cuisine of the Khasi tribe, who live in harmony with nature. Laitmawsiang is a perfect place for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and peace seekers.

Chettinad Palace, Tamil Nadu 

The next hidden gem is Chettinad Palace, a magnificent mansion in Tamil Nadu, built by the Chettiar community in the 19th century. The palace is a masterpiece of art, architecture, and tradition. It showcases the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the Chettiars, who were wealthy merchants and bankers. The palace is adorned with intricate woodwork, marble, stained glass, teak, and granite. It also has a museum that displays the antique furniture, paintings, jewellery, and utensils of the Chettiar family. Chettinad Palace is a must-visit for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and architecture lovers.

13 Arch Bridge, Kerala 

The third hidden gem is the 13 Arch Bridge, a marvel of engineering in Kerala. This bridge was built in 1904 by the British, using only rocks and bricks, without any cement or steel. The bridge has 13 arches that span over the Ashtamudi Lake, creating a beautiful sight. The bridge is still functional and carries trains across the lake. You can also enjoy the scenic view of the lake and the surrounding coconut groves from the bridge. The 13 Arch Bridge is a testament to the skill and innovation of the past.

Tada Falls, Andhra Pradesh 

The fourth hidden gem is Tada Falls, a spectacular waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. The waterfall is also known as Ubbalamadugu Falls and is located in a dense forest. The waterfall cascades from a height of about 100 meters, creating a pool of crystal-clear water at the bottom. The waterfall is a popular spot for trekking, camping, and picnicking. You can also spot various birds and animals in the forest, such as peacocks, monkeys, and deer. Tada Falls is a hidden paradise for nature lovers and adventure lovers.

Arvalem Caves, Goa 

The fifth hidden gem is Arvalem Caves, a mysterious and ancient site in Goa. The caves are believed to date back to the 6th century AD and are associated with the legend of the Mahabharata. According to the legend, the Pandavas took shelter in these caves during their exile. The caves are carved out of laterite rock and have a simple and plain design. The caves also have a Shivalinga, a symbol of Lord Shiva, inside them. The caves are located near a waterfall and a lake, adding to their charm. Arvalem Caves are a hidden treasure for history lovers and mystery lovers.

Jhatingri, Himachal Pradesh 

The sixth hidden gem is Jhatingri, a quaint and serene hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Jhatingri is situated at an altitude of about 2000 meters and offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains and the green valleys. The hill station is ideal for relaxing, meditating, and rejuvenating. You can also visit the nearby attractions, such as the Magru Mahadev Temple, the Joginder Nagar Valley, and the Barot Dam. Jhatingri is a hidden haven for peace lovers and mountain lovers.

Doodhpathri, Kashmir

The seventh hidden gem is Doodhpathri, a mesmerizing meadow in Kashmir. The name Doodhpathri means “valley of milk”, and it is said that the water of the stream that flows through the meadow is as white as milk. The meadow is covered with green grass, wildflowers, and pine trees. The meadow is also home to various birds and animals, such as sheep, horses, and cows. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the meadow, or indulge in activities like camping, horse riding, and fishing. Doodhpathri is a hidden gem for nature lovers and photography lovers.

Idukki, Kerala 

The eighth hidden gem is Idukki, a beautiful district in Kerala. Idukki is known for its diverse and rich flora and fauna, and its scenic attractions. Idukki has many places to visit, such as the Idukki Dam, the highest arch dam in Asia, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest wildlife reserve in Kerala, the Munnar Hill Station, the most popular hill station in Kerala, and the Vagamon Hill Station, a lesser-known but equally charming hill station. Idukki is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers, hill station lovers, and dam lovers.

Chalakudy, Kerala

The ninth hidden gem is Chalakudy, a town in Kerala that has something for everyone. Chalakudy has a variety of attractions, such as the Athirapally Waterfalls, the largest waterfall in Kerala, the Vazhachal Waterfalls, a scenic waterfall near the Athirapally Waterfalls, the Sholayar Dam, a hydroelectric project on the Chalakudy River, the Anakkayam Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by forests, and the Munakkal Beach, a pristine beach on the Arabian Sea. Chalakudy is a hidden gem for waterfall lovers, dam lovers, lake lovers, and beach lovers.

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka 

The tenth and final hidden gem is Nagarhole National Park, a wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. The park is also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park and is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park is home to a variety of animals, such as tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and wild dogs. The park also has a rich diversity of plants, birds, reptiles, and insects. You can enjoy the wildlife safari, or stay in the jungle lodges or camps. Nagarhole National Park is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers and adventure lovers. 

So, these were the top 10 hidden gems to visit in India. We hope you enjoyed reading this travel blog and learned something new. If you did, don’t forget to leave your comments and share this blog with people who love travelling in your circle. You can also subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch the best travel videos on India and world travel.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Are there any specific details about transportation options, such as how to reach these hidden gems via public transport or whether private transportation is necessary?

For transportation options to reach these hidden gems, travellers can research local transportation services, including buses, trains, or shared taxis, depending on the location’s accessibility. In some cases, private transportation may be necessary, especially for remote destinations or areas with limited public transport coverage. Travelers can also consider hiring a local guide or driver who is familiar with the region to facilitate transportation and provide insights into the area.

Do these hidden gems have any accommodation options nearby, such as guesthouses, homestays, or campsites, for travellers planning to stay overnight?

To find accommodation near these hidden gems, travellers can explore various online booking platforms such as Agoda, Booking.com, Airbnb, or TripAdvisor. These platforms often list guesthouses, homestays, or campsites located in or near the destinations mentioned in the article. Additionally, travellers can contact local tourism offices or check official tourism websites for information on accommodation options and availability. It’s advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the desired lodging.

Are there any recommended activities or experiences unique to each hidden gem, beyond what is mentioned in the article, that travellers should consider when visiting?

Beyond what is mentioned in the article, travellers can seek out additional activities or experiences unique to each hidden gem by researching local attractions, guided tours, or cultural events. This could include activities such as guided nature walks, cultural performances, traditional cooking classes, or visiting local markets and artisans. Travellers can also engage with locals or seek recommendations from accommodation hosts or tour operators for insider tips on must-see sights or off-the-beaten-path experiences in the area.