While the allure of gelato by the Amalfi coast, a getaway to
the white sand beaches of Maldives, or
sipping champagne atop the Eiffel Tower might sound appealing, there are
countless places to explore right here in India. Our country is a melting pot
of rich history, diverse cultures, heritage sights, breathtaking landscapes,
and historic spots that have stood the test of time. We are not talking about
the well-known paths like the Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, the palaces of Rajasthan,
the beaches of Goa, or the world-famous temples. Undoubtedly, they are a
must-visit, but beyond these, there is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting
to be discovered and a Bus Rental Delhi
will be a perfect companion in this exciting journey.
Let us set out on a journey with an 18 seater mini bus to uncover some of the untapped and offbeat
destinations that promise a unique and immersive experience. From dark sky
reserves to hidden caves and frozen waterfalls, these less-visited places of
the country present remarkable diversity and allure and offer unforgettable
adventures for daring travellers.
1. Jawai, Rajasthan
While Udaipur and Jaipur have their own charm, just a few hours
away from these well-known tourist spots lies Jawai in the Pali district.
Recognized for its leopards, Jawai is an ideal destination for safari lovers,
with numerous lodges catering to your stay and safari needs (Sujan Jawai Camp
is a recommended choice). It is quite common to spot leopards leisurely basking
on the village roads, as there are no fences here. Surprisingly, there have
been no cases of attacks; humans and leopards peacefully coexist.
Another must-visit is the Jawai Bandh, a dam set against the
backdrop of rugged hills and the Jawai River, where you might even spot some
crocodiles. With 45 seater Volvo Buses, Immerse yourself in the culture of the local
Rabari tribe, go on a village safari with the locals, or relish breathtaking
sunsets from the viewpoints.
2. Hanle Dry Sky Reserve, Ladakh
Ladakh has long been a favourite destination for its
captivating lakes, landscapes, and valleys. Now, there is another compelling
reason to visit – it is the proud home of the first Dark Sky Reserve. In a Dark
Sky Reserve, light pollution is carefully monitored to ensure total darkness
and clear skies for a truly memorable sky observation experience. Say hello to
Starry Nights!
Situated within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Eastern
Ladakh, the Dark Sky Reserve in Hanle Village covers an expansive area of 1,073
square kilometres. It is located next to the Indian Astronomical Observatory,
the second-highest optical telescope globally, positioned at an elevation of
4,500 meters.
3. Wari Chora & Krem Chympe, Meghalaya
Choosing the best spots in Meghalaya is a tough task because
everything seems picture-perfect there. Not only is it home to the cleanest
river in Asia but there is much more to discover. Among the hidden gems are
caves and canyons that add to the charm of this Northeastern state.
Wari Chora, an unexplored canyon in the forests of South Garo
Hills, features the Rongdik River flowing between two tall gorges. A canoe ride
here allows you to soak in the captivating surroundings. On the other hand,
Krem Chympe is a concealed cave, the fifth longest in India. Its entrance is
adorned with limestones, lush greenery, and a turquoise pool. The cave takes
you to the breathtaking Chympe waterfalls.
4. Maravanthe Beach, Karnataka
The nine-hour drive from Bengaluru will bring you to this
remarkable highway. Maravanthe is a uniquely positioned beach in Coastal
Karnataka, with the Arabian Sea on one side and the Souparnika River on the
other. A highway close to the sea and river on each side is a rarity, and
Maravanthe is said to be the only one in India. This spot must be on your
travel bucket list.
5. Sandakphu, West Bengal
Sandakphu, a paradise for trekkers, is one of the highest peaks
in West Bengal, situated on the border of India and Nepal. This mesmerizing
spot provides a unique experience with clouds below eye level and an
uninterrupted view of the highest peaks – Everest (the highest at 8,848 m),
Kanchenjunga (third highest at 8,586 m), Lhotse (fourth highest at 8,516m), and
Makalu (fifth highest at 8,463 m). The sight of Kanchenjunga and its smaller
peaks is particularly special as their arrangement creates a form resembling
the head, face, upper body, and feet of Lord Buddha, which earned it the name
the Sleeping Buddha.
6. Drung Waterfall, Gulmarg
In Gulmarg, gondola rides and skiing are well-known activities,
but have you ever gazed at the beauty of frozen waterfalls? The best time to
witness this spectacle is during January-February when the Drung Waterfall
freezes due to the below-freezing temperatures of Kashmir winters, creating a
breathtaking sight. Other undiscovered attractions in Kashmir include Tulian
Lake, a hidden gem in Pahalgam, and the picturesque Chatpal village, nestled in
a valley where you can not only enjoy the scenery but also learn about the
local Gujjar community.
Conclusion
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of cities and immerse
yourself in incredible experiences. Vacations in these lesser-known corners of
the country are genuinely unforgettable. Escape the crowds, explore the raw
natural beauty and unique cultures, and enjoy several new experiences. In
recent times, an increasing number of people are seeking destinations off the
beaten path. Moreover, these offbeat destinations not only provide the thrill
of a relaxing getaway but also create cherished memories.