For the love of travel, an ordinary Globetrotter visits every exotic location on a jet-setter’s bucket list. But, has the modern day Indian wayfarer taken enough pictures of his own land yet? Has he visited the enticing mountains, the azure seaside, and the verdant countryside yet? India, the land of mustard seed farms has way much to offer than a usual voyager could imagine. We bring you a list of enchanting Indian villages every sightseer must visit at least once.
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Also known as Asia’s cleanest village, Mawlynnong is situated 90 km away from the Scotland of the East, Shillong. For the adventure seekers, they have the option to trek to Mawphlang as well. The aesthetic beauty and the cleanliness will surely make you want to live there. Make sure you walk at least once on the Living Root Bridge.
Tumling, West Bengal and Nepal border
A small village or a hamlet located on the Indian-Nepal border not too far away from Darjeeling. Tumling offers you peace and the spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga Mountains. You can also trek into the forests and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Tumling.
Malana, Himachal Pradesh
Popularly known as the magical green village, Malana is popular for quite obvious reasons. The isolation of this community from the rest of the world makes it even more captivating. If you are too tired of your daily office routine, take a few days off and unwind in Malana, away from the everyday city chaos.
Velas, Maharashtra
Situated about 200 km away from Mumbai, Velas beach is a small village in the Ratnagiri district. The fresh air coming from the mighty Arabian Sea and, of course, the turtles will simply make you crave for more. The beach village is mainly popular for the conservation of turtles. Homestays are available at a nominal price. Make sure you visit this land of turtles at least once.
Lachen Village, Sikkim
The scenic mountain village located in the state of Sikkim must be on every traveller’s list. The alluring settlement is just 120 km away from Gangtok. The incredible backdrop of rock cliffs, glaciers, and snowcapped peaks make Lachen even more spectacular. The land of vibrant local culture and the bewildering flora and fauna must be visited at least once in your lifetime.
Mirik, West Bengal
The picturesque low profile village in West Bengal located between Darjeeling and Siliguri is nothing less than outstanding. A quiet retreat for the ones looking for solace, Mirik doesn’t tend to disappoint in any case. The amazing hilltops and the locals will make your journey even more attractive.
Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
Seldom referred to as the Kashmir of the state, Lambasingi is located quite near Visakhapatnam. The rich beauty of Lambasingi and the greenery makes it one of the best vacation spots for a nature lover. The best time to visit this gem is during October and December. If you live somewhere in the south, make it a point to visit Lambasingi.
Tabo, Himachal Pradesh
Tabo, a small village nestled in Himachal Pradesh is also known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas. The beautiful village is popular for one of the oldest monasteries, Tabo monastery which host a series of caves and paintings similar as in the Ajanta caves. On your visit, you get to experience spirituality, history, and tranquility, all in one. The calm and peace will leave you mesmerized.
Majuli, Assam
Majuli, located on the river Brahmaputra is famous for being the largest river island in the world. The unmatched beauty constituting of water meadows, rice fields and a distinct species of birds. The Assamese cuisine will do full justice to your taste buds, and the striking cultural tradition will take you to the world you thought never existed.
Gavi, Kerala
If you have that unmatched love for nature, Gavi is the place you should be at. The quiet, and pristine forest haven matched with the view of the wild beasts cannot be witnessed anywhere else. The water creeks and the valley view is something that you should definitely not miss. Enjoy wildlife at its best.
Kuldhara, Rajasthan
Popularly known as the ghost town of Rajasthan, Kuldhara is also known as the cursed village just like the towns of Bhangarh and Ajabgarh. Visiting the place after sunset is not advised, but you may want to take a day tour of this village to get a feel of the ancient life. Chills may run down your spine as to how 84 villages abandoned the place with their families in just one night. If you are one of the ‘I am not scared of anything’ lot, this place is for you.
Chaugan Village, Madhya Pradesh
For a complete village life experience, you must visit Chaugan village at least once. Situated on the edge of the Narmada River, Chaugan village is a visitor’s paradise. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city life and spend some quality time with the tribals of this village. Enjoy food items like honey prepared by Mother nature herself, and enjoy the marvellous craft items the locals make.
Dindigul, Tamil Nadu
If you are looking forward to eating some mouth watering biryani in Tamil Nadu, Dindigul is the place you should be at. The alluring greenery and the spectacular backdrop makes the traveler want to stay here for a really long while. For those looking for a long awaited quiet vacation, Dindigul is your best bet.
Harsil, Uttarakhand
Harsil is situated 7000 feet above the sea level in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. A trekker’s paradise, a loner’s retreat and a pilgrim’s heaven, Harsil caters to all. The mesmerizing backdrop and the untouched beauty will make you want to live there. Enjoy fresh and juicy apples from the orchards and some delicacies from the Himachali cuisine.
Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh
Also known as the last resort, Chitkul is a small village located 600 km away from the national capital. The crown of the Kinnaur valley is the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibet border. Rivers, apple orchards, greenery and, of course, the hills, Chitkul has it all.
Plan a trip to one of these rural gems in India and experience an overdose of nature and culture. And as they say, nothing makes you happier than a walk by the countryside.
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