The Most Underrated Travel Destinations in India
Are you planning a trip and looking for underrated travel destinations in India? Read on!
India is a massive country with lots to see, meaning some cool destinations can be overlooked. Here are 10 of the most underrated travel destinations for international travelers looking to explore India beyond the grand palaces in Rajasthan, the beautiful greenery of Kerala, and the beaches of Goa.
Northeast India is made up of 8 states, which are largely underrated for international travelers. You may have heard of Assam, which is popular amongst tea enthusiasts, but don’t miss out these northeastern states that make up 6 of the 10 underrated destinations.
A couple other states on the list are in Central India, which also deserves a second look when planning itineraries for India.
10 Underrated Travel Destinations in India
Here are ten underrated destinations in India that deserve a spot on your travel radar.
1. Meghalaya
Meghalaya which translates to “abode of the clouds” lives up to its name with an abundance of rain that creates beautiful landscapes to explore. The capital city, Shillong, has lots to do, but I recommend getting out of the city to find the real hidden gems of this state.
A couple must-visit places include Cherrapunjee, a paradise for nature lovers, and Mawlynnong, touted as the world’s cleanest village.
To learn more about this state, read this post: 19 Best Meghalaya Tourist Places, Landmarks + Fun Facts.
2. Nagaland
A gem in the northeast of India with breathtaking landscapes and a deep-rooted ancestral heritage. There’s much to explore for adventurous travelers, especially those that love to hike.
Trek to Dzukou Valley (aka the “Valley of Flowers”), famous for beautiful rolling hills and multicolored wildflowers that bloom during the summer, making a trip during monsoon season well worth it. Or plan a multi-day journey to hike Mount Saramati, the highest peak in the state, for breathtaking panoramic views.
3. Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is the least populated state in the country with 13 people per square kilometer and rugged roads in most parts. Seek peace with magnificent views of the Himalayas and visit the Buddhist Monks at Bomdila Monastery. This Buddhist pilgrimage site with intricate Tibetan architecture will bring you a sense of peace and serenity.
If you’re a mountain lover, Sela Pass is the world’s second highest motorable road and serves as a testament to the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Around every hairpin turn there’s a new view to behold from snow-capped mountains, lakes, or prayer flags flying along the road.
4. Sikkim
Start at the capital city of Gangtok, but be sure to travel around the state to see the rolling foothills of the Himalayas and the many lakes. If you are there from April to mid-June you can check out Nathula Pass, a protected mountain pass located on the Indo-China border that was once part of the Silk Road.
Pro traveler tip: you can pair a trip to Sikkim with a visit to Darjeeling, in the neighboring state of West Bengal.
5. Manipur
Manipur is also known as the “jewel of India” due to its landscape of nine hills with an oval valley in the middle. It has one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, Loktak Lake, where you can sleep in a floating homestay. The lake is part of the only floating national park in the world, Keibul Lamjao National Park.
6. Odisha
On the Eastern Coast of India, Odisha (formerly known as Orissa), might be the most “off the beaten path” destination on this list; rich in art and culture there’s a lot to uncover. This state combines pristine coastline with ancient temples and traditional art.
Witness an Odissi classical dance performance, where you’ll be treated to memorizing, expressive, intricate choreography with bold costumes, telling the stories about Hindu spirituality and mythology. Or explore Raghurajpur Artist Village, where you will find master artisans creating everything from paintings to textiles to jewelry.
You can also find some tranquility by heading to the palm-fringed beaches of Puri or Gopalpur-on-Sea, where you can unwind, bask in the sun, and take refreshing dips in the ocean water of the Bay of Bengal.
7. Madhya Pradesh
The large central state of Madhya Pradesh is known as the heart of India. It is often overlooked because it doesn’t have the beautiful beaches of Kerala or the imposing Himalayas in the north or the royal palaces of Rajasthan. But it has plenty to offer, especially for nature lovers.
There’s 10 National Parks in this state alone. It’s worth a visit to go on safari in Panna National Park and try to spot a tiger. There’s also the bonus of visiting the nearby historic Khajuraho temples.
8. Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is great destination for nature lovers. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the valleys crisscrossed by streams and rivers, the state’s natural beauty is top tier. Places like Manali and Shimla are popular escapes.
But I would say it’s better to plan a visit to Spiti Valley. It’s known as ‘Little Tibet’ and is dotted with Buddhist monasteries and small villages. The rugged terrain offers adventurous roads and striking landscapes. Don’t miss the Key Monastery and the picturesque Dhankar Lake trek.
9. Gujarat
Gujarat is home to the Asiatic lion in the wild terrain of Gir National Park. The state’s extensive coastline includes tranquil beaches like Mandvi and Dwarka, the latter being an important pilgrimage site.
Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch, the salt desert, becomes a cultural mosaic during the annual Rann Utsav festival, which showcases local crafts, music, and dance.
10. Assam
Assam, more than just the home of tea gardens, has a wild side with Kaziranga National Park. It’s a place where the mighty Brahmaputra River shapes the landscape, and the cultural city of Guwahati provides a vibrant atmosphere.
TL;DR: Underrated Travel Destinations in India
Each of India’s 28 states has its own claim to fame. Whether you’re taking your second trip to the country or just want to explore off the beaten path, there’s a lot more to see in these underrated destinations.