Top 10 Unique Travel Places You Should Try in India

India is a land of contrasts that has a lot to offer to its visitors. The place offers snow-capped mountains, golden deserts, tropical beaches, lush forests, and cities filled with tales that are centuries old. While most people think of popular tourist destinations like Goa, Delhi, or Jaipur when planning a trip, the country also offers many lesser-known options that provide more than just an unforgettable experience.

If you want to explore the less-traveled places, here are 10 unique travel destinations in India to see for your next trip.

• Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Situated in the northeast range hills, Ziro Valley is a heaven for nature lovers and culture seekers. Lush green fields, pine trees on hills, and a vibrant Apatani tribal culture make it an escape from mundane city life.

Why You Should Go?

1. The Ziro Music Festival is known globally, and you can attend it in person.
2. Walking silently through terraced paddy fields and pine woods.
3.  Experience the Apatani Villages’ tribal culture.

Best Time to Visit- March to October, preferably September during the music festival.

Traveler Tip- For an authentic Ziro experience, try millet beer and bamboo chicken.

• Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

The White Desert of Kutch is undoubtedly a rare sight in India. When the Rann Utsav is underway, the salt desert becomes one big open-air fair of folk music, dance, and crafts.

Why You Should Go?

1. Witness the surreal beauty of a white sandy desert under the full moon.
2. Purchase traditional Kutch embroidery and handicrafts.
3. Enjoy folk dances and cultural programs.

Best Time to Visit- November to February (during Rann Utsav).

Traveler Tip – A desert camp stay is unmissable for a complete experience.

• Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Famously known as the Cleanest Village in Asia, the place is perhaps picture-perfect, with bamboo houses and lush gardens.

Why You Should Go?

1. To see the living root bridges.
2. To learn about the Khasi tribal culture.
3. Take the skywalk to see panoramic views of the Bangladesh plains.

Best Time to Visit- March to June and September to November.

Traveler Tip- Carry cash; several local stalls do not accept digital payments.

• Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Often called the Mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is truly a dreamy meadow nestled amidst cedar forests and snow-capped peaks.

Why You Should Go?

1. Relaxing in the lush meadows of Khajjiar.
2. Adventure activities like zorbing and paragliding.
3. Sightseeing Khajji Nag Temple and Khajjiar Lake.

Best Time to Visit- March to October. But the winters-December to February-are really magnificent, even though they can be quite freezing.

Traveler Tip- Carry a picnic basket, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.

• Majuli, Assam

Majuli is the largest populated river island located in the Brahmaputra River. Along with the river and the islands’ natural beauty, it is also rich in neo-Vaishnavite culture and monasteries.

Why You Should Go?

1. Visit traditional Satras (monasteries).
2. Attend the colourful celebrations of the Raas festival.
3. Birdwatching for rare migratory birds.

Best Time to Visit- October to March.

Traveler Tip- For a better view of the island, rent a bicycle.

• Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with the remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi is like an immense open-air museum filled with ancient temples and bouldered landscapes.

Why You Should Go?

1. You can explore the iconic Virupaksha Temple.
2. Enjoy witnessing the sunrise from Matanga Hill.
3. You can visit the Stone Chariot at Vittala Temple.

Best Time to Visit- October to February

Traveler Tip- Take a coracle boat ride across the Tungabhadra River; it’s a unique Hampi experience.

• Dzukou Valley, Nagaland-Manipur Border

Beautiful Dzukou Valley is a well-known trekker’s paradise, which has hills blanketed in green. The place is famous for seasonal flowers, which make it even more beautiful.

Why You Should Go?

1. Trek across meadows dotted with vibrant flowers 
2. Camp beneath the twinkling stars 
3. See the Dzukou Lily during its peak flowering 

Best time to Visit- June to September (for flowers), November to March (for clear skies).

Traveler Tip- Remember to pack warm clothes. Nights can be cold even during the summer.

• Gokarna, Karnataka

If you think Goa is too packed throughout the year, Gokarna serves as an ideal alternative. Beaches in this small town attract a small number of tourists, all while offering fewer tourists and unexplored beaches. You can even travel solo to this place without having any second thoughts.

Why You Should Go?

1. Take out some time to enjoy Om Beach as well as Kudle Beach.
2. Consider exploring the trek starting from Om to Half Moon and then to Paradise Beach.
3. Do visit the Mahabaleshwar temple.

Best Time to Visit- October to March

Traveler Tip- For a convenient and hassle-free journey, you can book your activities and stay through Klook India, which offers delightful stays and comfortable transportation. You can also get discounts on your booking if you make the arrangements through CouponzGuru.

• Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley is often referred to as “Little Tibet” due to its similarity with Tibet. Also, it is one of the most breathtaking high-altitude areas in India. You can plan your next trip there without having any second thoughts.

Why You Should Go?

1. Visit old monasteries like Key and Dhankar.
2. Explore the Chandratal Lake.
3. Visit high altitude villages like Kibber and Komic.

Best Time to Visit- May to October (accessible by road).

Traveller Tip- Proper acclimatization is very important to prevent altitude sickness—carry simple medications.

• Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The last destination on the list of the top 10 unique travel places you should try in India is the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Apart from beaches, these islands also offer coral reefs, sea creatures, and several old tourist attractions. Set in warm regions, it is an ideal destination for divers and nature lovers.

Why You Should Go?

1. Enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving at Havelock Island.
2. Get to see the old Cellular Jail, Port Blair.
3. You can explore Radhanagar Beach, which is the best beach in Asia.

Best season to visit- October to May

Traveler Tip- Make sure to carry waterproof bags to keep your gadgets safe while enjoying water sports.

Summing Up

India hosts a variety of less-explored travel destinations. You can choose any of these destinations listed above and enjoy an unforgettable trip. Planning for the trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You have to know about the right tools, set your priorities, and take care of a few things while traveling. The next time you need a vacation, go through the list above, research a little about the place, and enjoy your trip to the fullest.