India is a country that you can never explore in a single trip.
You probably know only the India that everyone talks about – the Taj Mahal at Agra, the Pink City of Jaipur, the ghats of Varanasi, the royal Udaipur, the beaches of Goa and the backwaters of Kerala.
But India is much more than its popular tourist destinations!
There are many unique experiences and stunning places tucked away in smaller, less-visited corners of the country - so many hidden gems in India, waiting to be uncovered.
You could stumble upon medieval temples, ancient palaces, bustling markets, or hilltop forts and discover an India that few have seen.
India also has beautiful landscapes dotted with sleepy villages, mysterious caves and dense mangrove forests – the epitome of adventure for those willing to seek them out.
So if you are thinking of visiting India or have returned from a trip there, here are 18 underrated places in India worth exploring.
1. Bundi, Rajasthan
Looking to discover an unexplored Rajasthan? This quaint town has been described as the ‘best-kept secret’ of Rajasthan.
Bundi in Southeastern Rajasthan has a unique charm and mystique that is completely different from the Rajasthan you know. It is a land of medieval palaces, stepwells and fascinating forts, set in the beautiful Aravalis.
The city is famous for the Bundi Palace, decorated with exquisite murals and Rajasthani carvings. The Taragarh Fort offers panoramic views of the region, while the stunning stepwells of Bundi (especially the Raniji ki Baori) are a treat for history buffs.
Bundi has a certain mystique that other parts of Rajasthan do not possess, although it has been gradually gaining popularity over the years.
In fact, Bundi is also described by Rajasthan tourism as “A land of palaces and forts, away from the crowd”.
2. Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
Imagine exploring ancient palaces, temples and cenotaphs that rise majestically along the banks of the Betwa River.
Welcome to Orchha, one of India’s best-kept heritage destinations, a land of forts, palaces, temples and rivers flowing freely.
Orchha was the capital of the Bundela kingdom and is today famous for its stunning architecture and rich history.
The Orchha Fort, which includes the Raj Mahal, Jahangir Mahal and the Orchha Palace, adds to the grandeur of this riverside town, while the picturesque cenotaphs rise impressively along the riverbanks, offering amazing photo opportunities.
Another unique travel experience in Orchha is the fascinating Ram Raja Temple. Despite its fame, Orchha tops the list of unexplored India’s hidden gems for international tourists.
In fact, India travel guides have described it as one of the best hidden gems in India, full of rich Rajput and Mughal architectural styles dating back to the 16th century.
3. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
Nestled in a picturesque region, Mandu showcases the legacy of the Malwa Sultanate and is home to some of the most fascinating medieval ruins in India.
Set in the heart of the Malwa region spanning the current-day Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Mandu is a city turned into a castle, turned into a ruin.
While the city now lies on a barren plateau, it was once a thriving center of sultans, poets and artists.
Many fascinating structures have been preserved despite their dilapidated state.
From the imposing Jahaz Mahal to the unique Hindola Mahal, the Hoshang Shah’s Tomb and the royal palace complex, Mandu has a unique charm that attracts history aficionados.
Mandu is especially famous as a hidden gem in India for its sunrise view over the region, which is nothing short of breathtaking.
4. Majuli, Assam
Located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, this offbeat destination in Assam offers a unique experience of a river island dotted with traditional monasteries, natural beauty and simple rural life.
Majuli, the world’s largest river island, is best known for its unique Vaishnavite Satras (monasteries).
Each Satra has its own traditions and festivals and hosts intriguing handicrafts, music and dance forms, local cuisine and ancient handicrafts.
The island’s natural landscapes and rural charm make it an intriguing destination for those looking to explore Assam beyond the mainstream circuits.
Majuli is a hidden gem in India where you can interact with local communities and have a unique cultural experience, while also exploring the island’s natural landscapes, such as rivers, villages and wildlife.
Majuli is one of the most fascinating destinations in Assam that one can explore beyond the well-trodden path.
5. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
If you want to explore the unspoiled, untouched beauty of Northeast India, you should begin your journey in Ziro. The beautiful valley is home to some of the best natural scenery in the region and the unique tribal culture. Nestled in the Lower Himalayas, Ziro is perfect for sightseeing and experiencing the local tribal way of life.
While visiting Ziro, you can enjoy the comfort of exploring the valley at your own pace. If you are looking for something more thrilling, you can also opt for adventure sports like trekking to explore the valley.
6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is one of the most charming destinations in Northeast India. This region is quite remote and wild and offers a unique experience to the adventurous ones willing to explore it. The fascinating Tawang Monastery, with its stunning ancient architecture, is the reason why tourists are drawn to this place. But the natural beauty of this region is what keeps them captivated.
This place is a paradise for nature lovers and offers great opportunities for trekking and is one of the most loved hidden gems in India for those seeking to explore the remote tribal villages. Due to its remoteness, you may need a guide to explore it.
7. Dholavira, Gujarat
Imagine ancient history and sun-baked rocky deserts.
If you love exploring the remnants of ancient civilizations, you shouldn’t miss Dholavira. This place is one of the many ancient Indian Indus Valley Civilization sites spread across Gujarat. Due to its unique preservation, this place has become a favorite destination for historians.
But for you, as an international traveler, it can be much more than that. Getting acquainted with the remnants of the ancient world can be fascinating, but what makes this place remarkable is the scale and complexity of its ancient structure.
8. Gokarna, Karnataka
While Goa may have stolen the limelight, it seems that Gokarna, a little coastal village in Karnataka, has remained in the shadows for too long. This village is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. While beaches in Goa may be more developed and commercialized, Gokarna offers an authentic coastal experience.
Gokarna offers both – a spiritual experience and the chance to explore the beach. It is the place where you can have an authentic Indian pilgrimage experience while discovering the natural beauty of the region. The combination of these two makes Gokarna an unparalleled travel destination and a must-visit place for those willing to explore beyond the well-known tourist destinations in India.
9. Bhitarkanika, Odisha
India’s wildlife safaris are some of the most unique experiences one can have while traveling around the country. India is home to many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, but there are some places that stand out due to their diverse range of flora and fauna.
Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha provides a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the mangrove forests. It is home to the endangered species of saltwater crocodiles and you can even go on a crocodile safari to spot these amazing creatures. Home to mangroves, wetlands and a rich variety of flora and fauna, Bhitarkanika offers a distinct ecosystem for nature lovers seeking to explore unique biomes.
10. Chettinad, Tamil Nadu
Step into a world of ancient mansions and fascinating food in Chettinad, which has a rich cultural and historical legacy of its own.
Famed for its rich historical Chettinad mansions, this region has unique architecture and is home to some of the country’s most unique structures. Chettinad is the home to the Nattukottai Chettiars, a prominent overseas merchant community, whose mansions are a hallmark of this region.
What makes these mansions special is the combination of local and foreign motifs that have been incorporated into their architecture.
Chettinad also has another claim to fame – its food. Chettinad cuisine is famous for being spicy and is a unique blend of many regional Indian flavors. A private tour of this region can include a food tasting tour along with exploring the region’s fascinating architecture and culture.
11. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh
Looking for India’s version of America’s Grand Canyon? Then you should not miss Gandikota.
This hidden gem is a small mountainous village located amidst the mesmerizing rock formations of Andhra Pradesh.
What makes Gandikota special, however, is the intriguing gorge said to have been formed by the Pennar River flowing through the region over millions of years. The Gandikota Fort, perched atop the rock formations, is another unique travel experience in the region.
Gandikota is perfect for photography enthusiasts, with its dramatic landscapes offering an array of picture opportunities.
12. Chopta, Uttarakhand
While Uttarakhand has long been a favored domestic destination for nature lovers, it has been less known to international tourists.
Chopta in particular, a small village nestled within the Garhwal region, is perfect for nature lovers willing to explore the region beyond the usual trails.
As described by many as the Queen of Chandrashila, Chopta offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, with mountains stretching far and wide in all directions. Chopta is a favorite among trekking enthusiasts, as it offers some of the best trekking India has to offer. Chopta is the perfect escape for those looking to unwind in the stillness and beauty of nature.
13. Kanatal, Uttarakhand
Looking for a different kind of Himalayan adventure? Then you may want to consider visiting Kanatal.
This small offbeat Himalayan village is surrounded by pine and deodar forests and is a fantastic weekend getaway from the major cities and towns in Uttarakhand. Kanatal offers a plethora of nature-based activities, with mountain biking and walking being the most popular. It is also a great place to interact with nature, with stunning scenery awaiting discovery at every turn.
For an authentic Himalayan experience, Kanatal is the place to be, offering a completely different kind of Himalayan experience than the more crowded tourist destinations in the region.
14. Osian, Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s desert landscape and cultural treasures have long been a favorite of international tourists, but most overlook the small desert town of Osian, located near Jodhpur.
Osian is famous for its ancient temples dating back to the 9th century, as well as the unique desert landscape it is located in.
The ancient forts and temples, including Osian Jain Temples, have made Osian a favorite of Rajasthan’s history lovers and photography enthusiasts.
While Osian is not as famous as Jaisalmer, the desert region around Osian offers exciting opportunities for off-road adventures and camel safaris. For those exploring Rajasthan beyond the usual circuits, Osian is truly one of the best hidden gems in India.
15. Patan, Gujarat
Patan is one of Gujarat’s best-kept secrets, a small heritage town with a rich legacy of its own.
The unique 11th-century stepwell of Patan, the Rani ki Vav, is one of the main attractions of this region and is a must-see for art and history lovers.
What makes Rani-ki-Vav special is the detailed artwork and intricate carvings that can be seen on almost every part of this ancient stepwell.
Beyond the stepwell, Patan also has a rich cultural legacy, especially known for its textile weaving traditions, including the famous Patola sarees.
Patan is a fascinating region with rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a unique travel experience.
16. Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Chakrata is a small offbeat hill station nestled amidst beautiful forests and mountainous landscapes.
With beautiful waterfalls and panoramic views of the surrounding regions, this region has everything it takes to become a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand.
As described by many, Chakrata is a true escape from the busy life, allowing you to unwind and explore the natural beauty of the region.
Chakrata is a fantastic place for adventure sports, with many trekking trails and scenic spots to explore.
This small Himalayan village is a great place to consider when looking for a less-crowded alternative to the popular hill stations in Uttarakhand.
17. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Looking to explore the beauty of Meghalaya? Then you must pay a visit to Mawlynnong.
With its breathtaking natural beauty and unique tribal culture, Mawlynnong is the best place to experience the village life of this northeastern state. This region is unique for its greenery, with forests of pine, orchids and other flora dotting the landscape of this region.
Mawlynnong has also been popular for its unique cultural heritage and sustainable living practices. However, few know that the true charm of Meghalaya lies in its wilderness – waterfalls, caves, valleys, forests, villages and misty mountains.
If you want to have a unique experience in Northeast India, then Mawlynnong is the place to be.
18. Mandawa, Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s vibrant havelis have been a favorite of many, but few outside the state have had the opportunity to experience them firsthand.
Located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, Mandawa is best known for its beautifully decorated havelis and intricate frescoes, attracting international art lovers to this small town. The havelis of Mandawa are an open-air gallery depicting the rich cultural heritage of the region through their detailed paintings.
A private tour of this region can be a wonderful opportunity to interact with local potters, painters and weavers, while also exploring the frescoes of this unique part of Rajasthan.
Why Explore Hidden Gems in India?
There is nothing wrong with the famous tourist destinations around India, from the majestic Taj Mahal to the bustling markets of Jaipur, the serene ghats of Varanasi, the majestic palaces of Udaipur, the royal heritage of Rajasthan, the backwaters of Kerala and the beaches of Goa. These are all incredible experiences that no trip to India would be complete without.
But what if we told you that you could have a much more enriching and unique travel experience by exploring some lesser-known destinations?
Instead of running around trying to reach the most popular destinations around the country, you can take it slow and enjoy the unique culture and beauty of a chosen region.
For example, in place of the crowded streets of Jaipur, you can interact with local villagers and learn about their way of life. In place of the palace tours in Rajasthan, you can explore an ancient ruined fort in Orchha.
Perhaps even more rewarding is the sheer variety of the hidden gems in India.
From exploring ancient history in the form of the Indus Valley ruins in Dholavira to the unique tribal culture of Ziro or the breathtaking wildlife safaris of Bhitarkanika, you can find it all in lesser-known India.
How to Explore the Hidden Gems in India
Some of these unique travel experiences in India are easily accessible and only require some planning ahead, while others, such as the remote tribal village of Ziro or wilderness safaris in Bhitarkanika, might require extra arrangements for the trip.
A private tour is perfect for making the most of an extended stay in India with a focus on visiting unique destinations that few international travelers ever get the chance to experience. By choosing a private tour, you will have much more flexibility, as you will not be limited to a rigid set of Itineraries that most tour packages offer.
Instead, you can select the kind of travel experiences you are interested in, such as history, culture, adventure, cuisine, or nature and build upon them to create a full travel plan.
Why Choose Janu Private Tour for Hidden Gems in India?
India has a fascinating variety of unique travel experiences that international visitors can enjoy, but getting around to all of them can be challenging with a regular tourist visa and limited time.
A private tour is perfect in this scenario as it can be customized to your specific needs, interests and budget.
At Janu Private Tours, we specialize in designing exclusive personalized travel itineraries for our clients, with more than 20 years of experience and 12,000+ happy customers (according to our website). We understand that India is best explored as a local and not as a tourist, which is why we provide a unique private tour experience, helping you discover the country without the hassle of regular tourism.
So, are you ready to discover India beyond its famous tourist destinations? Let us help you create a memorable travel experience in India with Janu Private Tours.
