India is a world by itself where you can travel endlessly. Although places like Goa, Manali, Jaipur, and Shimla remain hot spots, there are quite a few hidden spots in India which remain unexplored and offer serenity along with bountiful beauty, unmatched by anything you may get anywhere else in the world.

This blog is for you, if you are someone who enjoys discovering some of the less-visited places of India. Let’s try to explore some of the underrated tourist spots of India before these places get crowded.

Why You Should Explore Underrated Places in India

Travel trends undergo changes. Modern travelers demand:

• Peace over crowds
• Authentic experiences over commercial tourism
• Nature, culture, and slow travel

Exploring the underrated locations will enable you to:

• Avoid tourist rush
• Support local communities
• Experience Unspoiled Beauty
• Travel on a budget.
• Extract unique memories

Let’s explore some offbeat travel gems of India.

1. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Tirthan Valley, which is located in the vicinity of the Great Himalayan National Park, is a very beautiful though less-known hill station in India.

Why Visit?

• Crystal-clear river streams
• Trout Fishing & Nature Walks
• Cozy Homest
• Ideal for a digital detox experience

Unlike Manali, the Tirthan Valley is peaceful and devoid of any crowds, and hence it is a great destination for nature enthusiasts and solo travelers.

Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal for: Nature lovers, couples, slow travellers.

2. Gokarna (Beyond the Beaches), Karnataka

While Om Beach and Kudle Beach are the main reasons why people visit Gokarna, few people explore its hidden coastal trails and secluded beaches.

Experiences Hidden:

• Paradise Beach-less crowded side
• Beach treks routesbul
• Peaceful sunsets without party crowds.

Compared to Goa, Gokarna is a lot more laid-back and spiritual.

Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal for: Budget travellers, backpackers.

3. Majuli Island, Assam

Majuli is the largest river island in the world. It is situated in the bank of the Brahmaputra River. It is also one of the most undiscovered destinations in the Northeast part of India.

Why Majuli is Special:

• Rich Assamese Culture
• Vaishnavite Monaster
• River Sunsets & Village Life
• Eco-friendly tourism

Majuli gives a chance to see India off the beaten path.

Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers

4. Bundi, Rajasthan

When one thinks of Rajasthan, names like Jaipur or Udaipur spring up. However, Bundi is still a secret with its astounding forts, as well as blue homes.

Highlights:

• Taragarh Fort
• Stepwells (Baoris)
• Old-world charm
• Fewer tourists

Bundi gives one a feel of going back in time and experiencing authentic Rajasthan.

Best time to visit: October to February
Ideal for: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts

5. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Ziro Valley is a paradise located in Arunachal Pradesh, where the Apatani tribe resides.

Why It’s Underrated:

• Picturesque green environments
• Irrigation rice paddies & pine forests
• Unique tribal culture
• Music festivals (although pacifist otherwise)

So, if you are someone who enjoys scenic views and experiences of local cultures, then Ziro Valley should be on your priority list.

Best time to visit: March to October
Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers

6. Varkala (Beyond the Cliff), Kerala

Varkala is gradually being noticed, but much of it remains yet uncharted.

Why Choose Varkala Over Popular Kerala Spots?

• Views from the cliff side with the Arabian Sea in the background
• Beaches – quiet, away from crowds
• Yoga retreats and wellness cafés

It’s the best combination of spirituality, nature, and relaxation.

Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal for: Solo travellers, wellness seekers

7. Chaukori, Uttarakhand

Chaukori is a small hill station that provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas, especially peaks such as Nanda Devi and Panchachuli.

What Makes It Special:

• Zero commercial tourism
• Tranquil tea plantations
• Perfect sunrise views

Compared to the bustle of Mussoorie and Nainital, Chaukori is calm and unspoiled.

Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal for: Peace seekers, writers, photographers

8. Mandarmani (Quiet Alternative to Digha), West Bengal

It has one of the longest drivable beaches in India, but is largely unexplored.
Mandarmani

Reasons to Visit Mandarmani:

• Less crowded beaches
• Beautiful sunrises
• Affordable resorts

It is an ideal place for a weekend escape from Kolkata.

Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal for: Families, couples

Travel Tips for Visiting Underrated Places in India

• Be sensitive to local cultures and traditions
• Avoid littering and plastic use
• Support local homestays and guides
• Responsibly and sustainably travel
• Maintain the cleanliness of the destination in order to maintain its aesthetic appeal
• Travel responsibly and sustainably

What We Think

“The beauty of India lies not only in its iconic sites but also in its off-the-beaten-path locations waiting to be discovered. Underrated destinations in India are the epitome of serenity, authenticity, and unforgettable experiences, although these hidden gems will not remain undiscovered for long.”

With the advent of social media platforms and travel reels, people are able to make places go viral in a matter of days. Thus, this is the best opportunity to travel to such places before the influx of people starts. Or in other words, travel slow and travel India, which can surprise you.