BEST OF INDIA'S nATURE – OFFBEAT DESTINATIONS
The picturesque hill stations, the pristine beaches, the unique and halcyon pilgrim destinations, the vast deserts, historical buildings to contemporary structures and from snow capped mountains to boat rides on the serene backwater yards; India is a land of endless opportunities for explorers
Khajjiar – The Mini Switzerland of India:
Khajjiar, often called as India’s Switzerland, is a hill station in Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh. The hill station is picturesquely set in the midst of magnificent ‘Deodar’ forests. The clump of reeds and the green meadow add an exquisite charm to this place. A small plateau in its green turf of dense pine and Deodar forests along its fringes adds to the pastoral scenery.
This offbeat place in India has the rarest combination of three eco systems. The lakes, the pastures and the forests come together to make a visit to this place a unique experience. Hence, it is also popularly called theMini Switzerland of Himachal Pradesh.
Malana – The Little Greece of India:
Malana is a tiny unique village with about 100 houses and is situated to the north-east of Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that one of the finest Charas or ” Malana Cream” is grown in this region. It is believed that Malana Cream is the most strongest and top-notch Charas till date.
This ancient solitary village in Malana is isolated from the rest of the world. The majestic peaks of Chandrakhani shadow the village and it is among the must visit offbeat places in India. They are considered to be one of the first democracies in the world and do not follow the Constitution of India. They follow an indigenous system and they believe they are independent and superior. Malana is also called as the “Little Greece in Himachal Pradesh” as the Malanis believe that they are the descendents of Alexander-The Great!
Paradise of Trekkers – Sandakphu:
Located at an altitude of 3,636 metres, Sandakphu is the highest peak located in Darjeeling district in the eastern part of India.The name Sandakphu means ‘Height of the Poison Plant’ because of the poisonous aconite plants that grow near the peak. The patronizing peak of the Singalila Range, Sandakphu is the most audacious point of many trekking routes in the Darjeeling-Sikkim region.
Sandakphu exemplifies the wild elemental splendour of the snows and the vista from the mountain peak is worth all the adversity endured on the way. It can be rightly called the “Paradise of Trekkers” as one can see four of world’s five highest peaks- Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse from this place.
Serenity personified – The Phugtal Monastery:
The Phuktal Monastery is a massive cave Monastery held high-up in the steep mountains. It is this demeanour which makes this Monastery unique amongst all others in the Zanskar Valley. The foundation of this monastery is primarily made of twigs and mud. It was found way back in the 12th century and is home to around 70 monks.
The frescoes and ceiling decorations of the monastery connects to the same era of Alchi Monastery and Tabo Monastery – one of the oldest monasteries. The most attractive aspect is the hollow in the rock in the cave over the monastery. The level of the water in this hollow never spills regardless ofany amount of water being drawn from it and is believed to have healing powers!
Khajuraho – The Temple of love:
The amalgamation of science, art of architecture and eroticism, Khajuraho is situated in India’s Tiger State- Madhya Pradesh. Khajuraho oozes out the passion in the culture, dance, music, eroticism and other creative arts portrayed on the walls and towers of the temple which date way back to 11th century.
This temple was built by the Chandela dynasty and is famous for its ‘Nagara’ style of architecture. The localities of the city believe that this temple was built to be the hub of tantric theology, which conveys that sex is an important part of human life and so is the attainment of “moksha”. Khajuraho is a small reticent village with not more than 3000 populace surrounded by the forestland and is a perfect example of the bold architectural statement which attracts tourists across the world.
Ponder into the panorama of Pangong Lake:
Pangong Lake is a beautiful lake situated at an altitude of 4350 meters. The chilling water and the clear sky, surrounded by the mountain ridges coved with snow looks picturesque! The water in Pangong Lake is the brackish; hence it makes the highest situated lake with salt water.
Pangong means extensive concavity and is 134 kilometer long, but it is only 5 kilometers wide at the widest points is a must visit if you want to discover best of India. More than 60% of the lake is spread over to Tibet. The topography is not just a tourist’s paradise but a geologist’s sphere of influence too but surely no fun for the army in the frozen temperature to take care of the tactical landscape.
Majuli – The abode of nature’s anonymity:
Assam is known as the gateway towards the north east region of India. The famous river Brahmaputra [Brahmaputra – A Thrilling Experience] which has its origin in Tibet flows through the place. Majuli, an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra, India’s most tempestuous river, is 2880 Kilometer long from its source to its destination in the Bay of Bengal. It is the largest fresh Water mid-river deltaic island in Asia.
The scenic beauty is spectacular and awe-inspiring! It is a visible living tradition of the relationship between humans and nature relationship which has evolved over centuries. Many Vaishnava monasteries are present here. Unique combinations of the art forms like drama, art, music and literature can be seen here.
Experience the Mesmerizing Champhai:
Mizoram is a must see if you want to explore best of India. It is a beautiful state with vivid tribal tradition, orchids and vibrant butterflies. Champhai’s splendid panorama of Myanmar hills covers an area of 3,185.83 sq km. The history of the tiny state of Champhai, starts with Champhai and ends with Champhai.The salubrious climate and picturesque vista attracts tourists across the world. “The Rice bowl of Mizoram” is located towars the base of the town is strikingly beautiful. A sequence of green hills encircles the rice fields, which adds to the charisma to the place. Visiting this place should be on your list of things to do in India.India's first planned hill city - LAVASA
Sharavathi Valley – Karnataka
The unexplored Sharavathi valley is formed by Sharavathi river in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. Attraction of this region are The famous jog falls formed by Sharavathi river and Sharavathi valley wildlife sanctuary. Sharavathi valley is also known for one of the best destination for trekking and aqua sports in India. Sharavathi valley is an ideal place for nature lovers do discover and explore the tranquil area.
Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer – The colours of royalty
Camel Safari is one of the most memorable and delightful experiences you can have. It gives you an exclusive approach to discover colorful villages in Rajasthan. Travel through the crests and troughs of the naturally formed Sand Dunes on a camel back and experience the essence of life in the Jaisalmer region.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Lake Pichola, Udaipur – The lake city of India
Limpid and large, Lake Pichola reflects the cool grey-blue mountains on its rippling mirror-like surface. Located in the heart of the city, Pichola Lake is the oldest and one of the largest lakes of Udaipur. Pichola Lake is enveloped by lofty Palaces, temples, bathing ghats and elevated hills on all its sides. At the time of sunset, a boat ride in this lake is sufficient to enthrall anyone. This lake is, indeed, amongst the top beautiful places in India.
Binsar: Romance of the Nature
A charming hill stations shrouded in pine forests and hemmed in by mighty Himalayan peaks, Binsar is your ticket to bliss. Almost cut off from civilization (as soon as you enter Binsar Wildlife Reserve), Binsar is an ideal place for nature walks, birdwatching and doing nothing. It is also favored by artists and writer as they come seeking inspiration of the hills.
But the activity that tops the chart of things to do in Binsar is to behold the 360 kilometers panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks from the “Zero Point”. The best time to visit this hill station is in summer although it could be visited throughout the year except during monsoon.
Since Auli is a ski destination, winter months from November till February are considered to be the best time to visit Auli. This is when this meadow is covered in a thick carpet of snow making it ideal for skiing down the slopes dotted with deodar and oak forest.
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Auli located 279 kilometers away.
By Rail: Haridwar is the nearest railway station to reach Auli located approx. 273 kilometers away. From there one could catch state buses, private buses or hire taxi to reach Auli.
Lonavala: A Walk above the Clouds
This charming hill station near Mumbai and Pune is a verdant delight. Here you literally walk on the clouds as they soar beneath you, embark on nature walks and hikes and there are places of historical interest too. This hill stations in India is best visited in July and August upon the arrival of monsoon making it one of the top places to visit in India during monsoon.
Nishat Garden - Shrinagar
Also known as “the garden of bliss”, Nishat Garden in Srinagar is set on the banks of the beautiful Dal Lake. The garden is set at the backdrop of the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range and it offers a great sunset view of the Dal Lake. A beautiful water channel flows right in the middle of the garden. Nishat Bagh was designed by Asaf Khan, the brother of Nur Jahan back in 1633 AD. The garden has 12 terraces, one for every zodiac sign and they keep on rising up the mountain side. All the terraces are filled with different colored roses, lilies, geraniums and asters.
Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer – The colours of royalty
Best time to visit: October to February.
Lake Pichola, Udaipur – The lake city of India
Limpid and large, Lake Pichola reflects the cool grey-blue mountains on its rippling mirror-like surface. Located in the heart of the city, Pichola Lake is the oldest and one of the largest lakes of Udaipur. Pichola Lake is enveloped by lofty Palaces, temples, bathing ghats and elevated hills on all its sides. At the time of sunset, a boat ride in this lake is sufficient to enthrall anyone. This lake is, indeed, amongst the top beautiful places in India.Binsar: Romance of the Nature
A charming hill stations shrouded in pine forests and hemmed in by mighty Himalayan peaks, Binsar is your ticket to bliss. Almost cut off from civilization (as soon as you enter Binsar Wildlife Reserve), Binsar is an ideal place for nature walks, birdwatching and doing nothing. It is also favored by artists and writer as they come seeking inspiration of the hills.
But the activity that tops the chart of things to do in Binsar is to behold the 360 kilometers panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks from the “Zero Point”. The best time to visit this hill station is in summer although it could be visited throughout the year except during monsoon.
Auli - The Heart of Uttrakhand
One of the finest ski destinations in India, Auli is renowned for its lush meadows dotted with oak and dense coniferous forests and spectacular views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Paravat and Kamat. During summers Auli serves as the base of several Himalan treks that include Col Auden trek and Valley of Flower and Hemkund Trek. Auli is also home to the largest ropeway ride in Asia.
Attractions in Auli
Cable ride, Vishnu Prayag, Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, Chattrakund, Kwani Bugyal, Hot Spring Point and Chenab LakeHow is Auli in Summer
Summer arrives in Auli in March and weather is largely favorable with temperature varying from a high of 25°C to low of 10°C.Since Auli is a ski destination, winter months from November till February are considered to be the best time to visit Auli. This is when this meadow is covered in a thick carpet of snow making it ideal for skiing down the slopes dotted with deodar and oak forest.
How to Reach Auli
By Road: Auli could be reached by road from various places in Uttarakhand. Several buses ply regularly between major destinations in Uttrakahand to Auli.By Air: Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Auli located 279 kilometers away.
By Rail: Haridwar is the nearest railway station to reach Auli located approx. 273 kilometers away. From there one could catch state buses, private buses or hire taxi to reach Auli.
Lonavala: A Walk above the Clouds
This charming hill station near Mumbai and Pune is a verdant delight. Here you literally walk on the clouds as they soar beneath you, embark on nature walks and hikes and there are places of historical interest too. This hill stations in India is best visited in July and August upon the arrival of monsoon making it one of the top places to visit in India during monsoon.
If you are interested in hot air balloon rides or para gliding, you should head to Lonavala where these activities could be availed of.
Attractions in Lonavala: Lonavala Lake, Karla Cave, Lo
Also known as “the garden of bliss”, Nishat Garden in Srinagar is set on the banks of the beautiful Dal Lake. The garden is set at the backdrop of the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range and it offers a great sunset view of the Dal Lake. A beautiful water channel flows right in the middle of the garden. Nishat Bagh was designed by Asaf Khan, the brother of Nur Jahan back in 1633 AD. The garden has 12 terraces, one for every zodiac sign and they keep on rising up the mountain side. All the terraces are filled with different colored roses, lilies, geraniums and asters.
