Are you ready to explore something unique on your next tour? Have you gotten tired of traversing around the same destination repeatedly? If yes, then it is high time to explore an offbeat destination. Various offbeat travel gateways are there in Northern India to welcome travelers with open arms from all around the world.
Needless to say, offbeat destinations ensure some unique experiences for travelers, which may not be otherwise available in many other popular tourist destinations. Discovering raw beauty and spending some quality time with near and dear ones amidst nature create unforgettable memories. Hence, it is time to come out of outdated vacation ideas and start afresh with some hidden gems.
The 10 most spectacular offbeat places in North India will take your breath away:
Are you ready to check out the 10 incredible hidden gems in North India? It is time to know about them one by one so that you can choose an ideal destination for your next vacation:
1. Malana
Popularly known as the “Little Greece of India”, Malana is a serene village in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This enchanting location is one of the most sought-after offbeat destinations for travelers.
In essence, Malana is a nature lover’s paradise due to the absence of any commercial hub. The perfect amalgamation of lush greenery and picture-perfect views enables tourists to spend a few days away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Pacify your mind, body, and soul by trekking across picturesque villages. Do not forget to explore the local culture to know more about the region and enrich your knowledge base.
Do not hesitate to participate in local rituals to have a great time with the residents of Malana. Moreover, adventurous souls can also indulge in diverse adrenaline-pumping activities during their stay here.
If you dream of exploring a string-free vacation, then Malana makes an ideal travel gateway for you. Whether you are searching for a perfect spot for an adventurous honeymoon or an ideal romantic gateway, Malana sets a perfect destination for all kinds of tourists.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (31 km). From there, take a taxi to Jari, followed by a trek to Malana.
Nearby Attractions: Parvati Valley, Kasol, Tosh
Activities: Trekking, exploring local culture, photography
Additional Tips: Respect local customs and avoid physical contact with residents. Malana is known for its cannabis cultivation, which is illegal; avoid any involvement.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Kullu, and transfer to Jari.
- Trek from Jari to Malana (2-3 hours).
- Explore the village, and visit the Jamlu Temple.
- Stay overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 2:
- Trek around Malana village, and interact with locals.
- Enjoy the scenic views and tranquility.
- Return trek to Jari and transfer back to Kullu.
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2. Chopta
Have you already explored the popular travel destinations in North India several times? If yes, then you can plan on traveling to Chopta in Uttarakhand on your next vacation. Being one of the most sought-after offbeat locations in North India, Chopta is a spectacular village with lush greenery, evergreen forests, and picture-perfect meadows.
The magnificent landscape of Chopta gives a golden opportunity to travelers to spend a couple of days amidst natural wonders. Did you know Chopta works as a famous trekking camp for various sought-after treks in the Indian state of Uttarakhand? The popular treks in this regard are the Tungnath trek and the Panch Kedar trek.
Popularly known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”, the place has not been witnessing many footfalls, so the pristine beauty and grandeur blow the minds of tourists. The lush greenery helps travelers unwind and provides them with scopes to relax and rejuvenate around rhododendrons, pine, and deodar.
Mountain lovers should not miss the opportunity to behold the unblocked sight of popular mountains, such as Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Nanda Devi. All these factors inspire travelers to visit and explore Chopta in Uttarakhand from time to time.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (221 km). The nearest railway station is Haridwar (194 km). Taxis and buses are available from Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Nearby Attractions: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Deoria Tal
Activities: Trekking, camping, bird watching
Additional Tips: Carry warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Ensure you are physically fit for the treks.
Suggested Itinerary for tour packages:
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Chopta, and check into a campsite or guesthouse.
- Visit local areas, and acclimatize to the altitude.
- Enjoy an evening bonfire and dinner.
Day 2:
- Early morning trek to Tungnath Temple (3.5 km).
- Continue the trek to Chandrashila Peak for panoramic views.
- Return to Chopta, relax, and explore the local flora and fauna.
Chopta Package: 6 Nights 7 Days Rishikesh Auli Chopta Itinerary from Dehradun
3. Kasol:
Nestled in proximity to Kullu, the breathtaking Kasol is one of the best offbeat travel destinations in North India. Located in Himachal Pradesh, Kasol makes a perfect weekend destination for nature lovers, photographers, solo travelers, and backpackers. The outstanding combination of cozy atmosphere and relaxing accommodation attracts travelers and inspires them to come back here repeatedly.
Enjoy a pollution-free ambiance away from the city hustle and bustle in Kasol to spend a few days relaxing and rejuvenating your mind, body, and soul. Adventurous souls can participate in adrenaline-pumping activities, such as boating, camping, hiking, trekking, and so on.
Do not forget to explore the mighty River Parvati to have peace of mind. The beauty and magnificence of Kasol help travelers release stress and encourage starting afresh. Israeli cuisine is a must-try when you find yourself in Kasol.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (31 km). Regular buses and taxis are available from Bhuntar.
Nearby Attractions: Manikaran Sahib, Tosh, Kheerganga
Activities: Trekking, camping, exploring cafes, river rafting
Additional Tips: Ideal for budget travelers and backpackers. Try local Israeli cuisine, and be cautious about personal belongings.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Kasol, and check into a guesthouse.
- Explore the local cafes and markets.
- Take a short hike to Chalal village in the evening.
Day 2:
- Trek to Kheerganga (12 km) and enjoy the hot springs.
- Camp overnight in Kheerganga.
Day 3:
- Return trek to Kasol.
- Visit Manikaran Sahib before departure.
4. Lansdowne:
Do you want to find yourself in a small yet tranquil hill station on your next vacation? If yes, then Lansdowne in Uttarakhand can be an ideal destination for you. Being one of the most sought-after offbeat destinations in Northern India, Lansdowne enables travelers to spend some unforgettable days on the lap of nature.
You might not want to miss activities like boating, sightseeing, trekking, or simply strolling on your trip to Lansdowne. Would you like to spend some quality time with your friends and family in a spectacular spot? Then, plan your next trip to Lansdowne.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (148 km). The nearest railway station is Kotdwar (40 km). Taxis and buses are available from Kotdwar.
Nearby Attractions: Bhulla Tal, Tip-n-Top, St. John’s Church
Activities: Nature walks, boating, exploring military museums
Additional Tips: Lansdowne is a quiet hill station ideal for a relaxing getaway. Accommodation options are limited, so book in advance.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Lansdowne, check into a hotel.
- Visit Bhulla Tal Lake and Tip-n-Top viewpoint.
- Explore St. John’s Church and St. Mary’s Church.
Day 2:
- Take a morning nature walk.
- Visit the War Memorial at the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre.
- Relax and enjoy the serene environment before departure.
Lansdowne Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Lansdowne Travel Itinerary
5. Ranikhet:
Another hidden gem in Uttarakhand is Ranikhet where you can spend some relaxing time with your near and dear ones. The lush greenery of this hilly location mesmerizes travelers and pacifies the mind, body, and soul. If you would like to spend your honeymoon in a serene destination, away from city hustles and bustles, Ranikhet can be the perfect destination for you.
Ranikhet is home to holy places and heritage sites to enable travelers to have an unforgettable time and create some extraordinary memories with their friends and family. Moreover, this hilly retreat is also an ideal location for weekend getaways. Needless to say, lovebirds find Ranikhet an idyllic spot to spend some romantic moments with their significant others. Read More: 10 Famous Places to See in Ranikhet.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (109 km). The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (80 km). Taxis and buses are available from Kathgodam.
Nearby Attractions: Chaubatia Gardens, Jhula Devi Temple, Haidakhan Babaji Temple
Activities: Nature walks, visiting temples, exploring orchards
Additional Tips: Ideal for a serene vacation with beautiful views of the Himalayas. Try local Kumaoni cuisine.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Ranikhet, and check into a hotel.
- Visit Chaubatia Gardens and Jhula Devi Temple.
- Explore the local market in the evening.
Day 2:
- Visit Haidakhan Babaji Temple.
- Enjoy a nature walk through the orchards.
- Return to your hotel and relax before departure.
6. Hemis:
You might know Ladakh to be famous for diverse aspects, such as monasteries, mountain passes, or adventurous activities. And when it comes to adventurous destinations, Hemis comes into the picture. A breathtaking combination of beauty and tranquility can be seen in Hemis.
One of the most popular activities in this mesmerizing destination is to experience a safari journey throughout the Hemis National Park. Do not miss exploring the Hemis monastery to familiarize yourself with the rich local culture of Hemis.
You can also choose to become a member of the monastery and take accommodation in the dorms. You would get to discover the magnificent building as well as participate in rituals. It is up to you whether you want to spend a few days in serene Hemis or crowded Hemis. In case you have chosen the first option, then plan your trip anytime but in June.
The month of June witnesses the Hemis festival, which attracts a large number of people from different places. However, if you wish to join the festival, you can plan your trip to Hemis in June. The festival lets participants experience monk dances, street processions, lip-smacking delicacies, vibrant stalls, and so on.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Leh Airport (40 km). Taxis and buses are available from Leh.
Nearby Attractions: Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Shey Palace
Activities: Attending Hemis Festival, exploring monasteries, trekking
Additional Tips: Acclimatize yourself to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Carry warm clothing and sun protection.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Leh, and acclimatize to the altitude.
- Visit Hemis Monastery and explore the surrounding area.
- Stay overnight in Hemis or return to Leh.
Day 2:
- Attend the Hemis Festival (if visiting in June/July).
- Explore nearby monasteries like Thiksey and Shey.
- Return to Leh for departure.
7. Khajjiar:
Perched in Himachal Pradesh and popularly known as “Mini Switzerland”, Khajjiar is a true hidden gem waiting for travelers with open arms. A perfect amalgamation of lush green forest, tranquil ambiance and picturesque scenic views has made Khajjiar a perfect travel getaway for nature lovers.
In other words, Khajjiar is an ideal destination for individuals seeking a relaxing retreat with an abundance of scopes for rejuvenation. The serene location can be explored with diverse activities, such as picnics, sightseeing, forest walks, and so on.
Needless to say, adventurous souls also get a myriad of opportunities to participate in various adrenaline-pumping activities, such as horse riding, paragliding, and so on. Are you planning a trip for the upcoming summer vacation? Then, consider Khajjiar to be your destination as a magnificent hill station.
Otherwise, planning a trip to Khajjiar in winter would let you explore white heaven on earth. In short, the place converts itself into a fairytale-type town during the snowy winter.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (115 km). The nearest railway station is Pathankot (95 km). Taxis and buses are available from Pathankot.
Nearby Attractions: Khajjiar Lake, Khajji Nag Temple, Dalhousie
Activities: Paragliding, zorbing, horse riding, nature walks
Additional Tips: Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”, it’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Book accommodation in advance during peak season.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Khajjiar, and check into a hotel.
- Visit Khajjiar Lake and Khajji Nag Temple.
- Enjoy horse riding and other activities.
Day 2:
- Take a day trip to Dalhousie and visit local attractions.
- Return to Khajjiar in the evening.
- Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty.
8. Spiti Valley:
When it comes to the list of unconventional travel destinations, the name Spiti Valley comes to mind. The mind-blowing destination offers enchanting views, adventurous trekking opportunities, fun-filled picnic spots, spectacular camping spots, and so on.
Do not forget to explore various monasteries located in Spiti Valley to pacify your mind, body, and soul. You can choose to get your accommodation in the dorms to discover the marvelous buildings and take part in rituals.
Get a flavor of the life of a hermit by spending a few days in one of the monasteries in Spiti Valley. Adventurous souls can opt to participate in trekking activities up to the highest elevation to witness the enthralling glaciers of the destination. If you would like to spend a few days in serenity away from the crowd, then choose Spiti Valley to be your next vacation destination.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (245 km). The nearest railway station is Shimla. Buses and taxis are available from Manali and Shimla.
Nearby Attractions: Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, Pin Valley National Park
Activities: Trekking, exploring monasteries, camping, photography
Additional Tips: Spiti Valley is remote and has limited facilities. Ensure you carry enough cash, as ATMs are scarce. Acclimatize for high altitude.
Read also: Journey through Rajasthan’s Offbeat Villages
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Kaza, and check into a guesthouse.
- Visit Key Monastery and Kibber Village.
- Explore Kaza market in the evening.
Day 2:
- Visit Chandratal Lake, and enjoy the stunning landscape.
- Return to Kaza and relax.
Day 3:
- Explore Pin Valley National Park.
- Visit local monasteries before departure.
Spiti Valley Package: 6 Nights 7 Days Spiti Valley Travel Itinerary
Read also: Discover North India: November Travel Guide
9. Manila:
Located in Uttarakhand, Manila is a picture-perfect travel destination in Uttarakhand. Being one of the most sought-after offbeat locations in Northern India, Manila offers serenity and peace of mind to travelers through soothing beauty and magnificence.
Do not confuse Manila in Uttarakhand with Manila, which is the capital of the Philippines. Nature lovers can expect to spend a fabulous time in Manila by witnessing lush green forests and mesmerizing sights of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli peaks.
Moreover, the splendid morning or evening sights create a breathtaking ambiance for spectators. Do not forget to visit Maa Manila Temple to seek blessings from Almighty God. The peaceful atmosphere of Manila is waiting for your exploration.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (156 km). The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (141 km). Taxis and buses are available from Kathgodam.
Nearby Attractions: Manila Devi Temple, Almora, Ranikhet
Activities: Nature walks, temple visits, exploring local villages
Additional Tips: A lesser-known destination offering tranquility and scenic beauty. Ideal for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Manila, and check into a guesthouse.
- Visit Manila Devi Temple and explore the village.
- Enjoy the serene environment and local cuisine.
Day 2:
- Take a nature walk, and explore the surrounding areas.
- Visit nearby attractions like Almora and Ranikhet.
- Return to Manila for departure.
10. Valley Of Flowers:
Do you want to explore a slice of paradise on your next vacation? If yes, then Valley Of Flowers in Uttarakhand makes an ideal destination for you. Needless to say, this extraordinarily spectacular destination is rich with exotic and unique Himalayan flora.
In short, the Valley Of Flowers is a heaven for nature lovers which can be considered as a massive bouquet amidst nature. The lush green forest and magnificent Pushpawati River have taken the beauty and grandeur of the place to the next level.
Did you know Valley Of Flowers has already been announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? An awe-inspiring amalgamation of extraordinary beauty and a rich variety of flora inspires travelers to explore the Valley Of Flowers repeatedly.
Best Time to Visit: July to September
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (292 km). The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (273 km). From there, drive to Govindghat, followed by a trek to the valley.
Nearby Attractions: Hemkund Sahib, Auli, Joshimath
Activities: Trekking, photography, exploring flora and fauna
Additional Tips: The valley is accessible only by trekking. Ensure you are physically fit and carry essential trekking gear. The valley is part of a national park, so follow all regulations and respect the environment.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Govindghat, and trek to Ghangaria (14 km).
- Check into a guesthouse in Ghangaria.
Day 2:
- Trek to the Valley of Flowers (3-4 km).
- Spend the day exploring the valley, and return to Ghangaria.
Day 3:
- Trek to Hemkund Sahib (6 km).
- Return to Ghangaria, then trek back to Govindghat.
Wrapping Up
I hope you got some insights into the 10 well-known offbeat travel destinations in North India. Hence, what are you waiting for? Opt for one of the above locations and plan a remarkable trip to create some unforgettable memories.
Learn more about North India here:
- Top 10 Places to See in North India in June
- North India Travel in July for Best Places
- 10 Famous Reasons You Should Visit North India
- Top 18 Destinations to See North India In November
- 12 Must-Visit Historical Destinations In North India
- Top 15 Places North India to Visit in September
- 7 Most Romantic Honeymoon Places in North India
- 15 Destinations to Visit North India in October
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites in North India
