10 Hidden Gems in India You Never Knew Existed

India is a land of rich culture, vibrant heritage and breathtaking landscapes. While the popular tourist spots often hog the limelight, the hidden ones tend to be forgotten. If you’re an off-beat traveller looking to explore the untouched gems, this one’s for you. Read on, as we spill the beans on some of India’s extraordinary places you probably never knew about.

1. Dzukou Valley, Nagaland

Tucked away in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas in Nagaland, Dzukou valley is a lesser known gem in north-east India. The valley borders Manipur and Nagaland, with more tourists flocking in from the Nagaland side. The valley’s lush green slopes, stunning hill-side and ever-green forests garner attention from tourists across the globe. Besides, one cannot miss the lilies and orchids that fill up the valley, aptly naming it the Valley of flowers of north east India. Combine it with Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival, held every year from 1 to 10 December at Kisama village, close to the trailhead near Kohima. Indian visitors need an online Inner Line Permit for Nagaland.

Nearest airport: Dimapur

2. Ziro Valley

One of Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden gems, Ziro Valley is known for its gorgeous landscapes, rich culture and unique experiences. The valley’s terraced rice fields come alive in September, making it the perfect month to plan a trip here. Besides, the Ziro Music Festival also takes place this month, attracting music lovers from across the globe. With the valley as its backdrop, the festival features a unique lineup of local and international artists.

The valley is also home to the Apatani tribe, giving tourists the opportunity to interact and understand their way of life. Lastly, nature enthusiasts can visit the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Tucked away from the main town, the sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, and September’s pleasant weather also makes it perfect for trekking and wildlife spotting.

Nearest airport: Donyi Polo Airport, Itanagar (about four hours). An Inner Line Permit is needed for Arunachal Pradesh.

3. Aihole, Karnataka

About 35 km from Badami and 140 km from Hampi stands an unspoilt trove of history, Aihole. Proudly known as "the cradle of Hindu/Dravidian temple architecture," Aihole promises a journey back in time along the banks of the Malaprabha river valley of northern Karnataka.

Visit Aihole and embrace the magnificent temples that speak of the past in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions, all in one place. Durga Temple, one of the well-known landmarks, is a true tribute to the profound legacy of architectural magnificence in Aihole.

Aihole is also home to an abundance of other temples like Garudagudi, Chakragudi, Ambigaragudi, Rachigudi, Kuntigudi, Hallibasappa Gudi, Badigargudi, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Mallikarjuna Temple, and Jyotirlinga Temple.

That's not all! Temples aside, Aihole's Durga Temple complex also houses an art gallery and archaeological museum that exhibits antiques from excavations carried out in its hinterland- something that must not be missed by travellers!

Nearest airport: Hubballi

4. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh, is a perfect choice for both history aficionados and art enthusiasts.

The temples of Khajuraho represent a distinctive treasure of India, exemplifying unmatched artistry and exquisite craftsmanship. Every sculpture and carving, whether depicting deities or divine figures, serves as a tribute to life in its diverse expressions and emotions, highlighting not only the talents of the artisans but also the extraordinary vision of their benefactors, the Chandela Rajputs. Locals believe that the Chandelas constructed over 85 temples in Khajuraho, dedicated to both Hindu and Jain deities. Of these, about 25 have stood the test of time.

Nearest airport: Khajuraho

5. Mainpat, Chhattisgarh

Located in Chhattisgarh, Mainpat is one of the lesser-known hill stations, with rolling green meadows, steep valleys, splendid waterfalls, dense forests, and sparkling streams. This place has gained popularity due to the relative lack of commercialization that usually devastates tourist spots. It is referred to as the Shimla of Chhattisgarh and yet this area has enjoyed a significant Tibetan cultural influence. Tibetan refugees settled here after the Chinese invasion of Tibet, and over the years they have given Mainpat the vibrancy of their culture. The pools of different cultures and varieties of traditions furthermore charm this hill station. Head here in winter, when you can enjoy the chillness of the hills covered in lush greenery.

Nearest airport: Raipur

6. Moodbidri, Karnataka

Popular for Thousand Pillars of Jain temple, lush greenery, pretty landscapes and local cuisine, Moodbidri is a small town located 30 km from Mangalore. This cultural gem is home to a whole lot of temples including the Thousand pillar temple, Gowri temple, Hanuman temple, and the Venkataramana temple.

Nearest airport: Mangalore

7. Igatpuri

Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is a popular weekend getaway from Pune and Mumbai. A charming hill station, known for its lush green slopes, quaint streets, majestic hills and cascading waterfalls, this is a perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers alike. When here, you can go rappelling, rock climbing or trekking. In winter the air is cool and clear, ideal for treks to Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s highest peak. Monsoons bring with it a breathtaking spectacle where hills are blanketed with vibrant shades of green, and the waterfalls perfectly complimenting the scenery.

Nearest airport: Nashik

8. Kaas Plateau, Maharashtra

This UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 850 species of flowers, is a visual delight. Spread across 1000 hectares of land, this plateau is a wonderland that attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers from across the world. During monsoons, the landscape is covered in shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white, creating a picturesque setting that feels almost otherworldly. Flora aside, the plateau is also home to a wide range of fauna including butterflies, birds, and amphibians. Tucked away from the city’s hustle and bustle, the serene escape is best visited in late August to early October. Visits are booked online with an entry fee, in timed slots. The Kaas Lake and Thoseghar Waterfalls are a must-go when here.

Nearest airport: Pune

9. Anini, Arunachal Pradesh

Standing in-between the Dri and Mathun rivers, Anini experiences temperate weather and exquisite scenery. The air is pristine and thick with fog for the most part; the place may pass off as remote and underdeveloped. However, a long mountain road via Roing links it to the rest of India. The major population in Anini are the Idu Mishmi tribes, who are significant contributors to the rich cultural diversity of the area. When here, visit the Mehao wildlife sanctuary, explore the ancient caves of Hunli, or marvel at the untouched landscapes in Chaglagam.

Nearest airport: Dibrugarh

10. Pichavaram

It’s not your fault if you have not heard about Pichavaram because it is not really on the tourist map. Spreading over about 1,100 hectares, it is one of the largest mangrove forests in India, explored by rowing boat through narrow channels. Located between the Vellar estuary and Coleroon estuary, the Vellar-Coleroon estuarine complex forms the Killai backwaters and the mangrove forest. It is home to about 200 species of birds and 20 different varieties of trees. September to March is the best time to head here, although you can spot migratory birds from November to January.

Nearest airport: Chennai