Welcome to India, a land of diverse cultures, rich history, and vibrant traditions! Nestled in South Asia, India is the seventh-largest country in the world, known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient monuments, and warm hospitality. India boasts a varied topography, ranging from the towering Himalayas in the north to the sun-kissed beaches of the south. The country experiences diverse climates, from the snow-covered regions of Jammu and Kashmir to the tropical climate in Kerala. Read further to know 7 hidden gems to visit in India in 2024 which must form part of your itinerary.
7 Hidden Gems to Visit in India in 2024
1. Dzukou Valley
Dzukou Valley is a picturesque valley located on the border of the Indian states of Nagaland and Manipur. It is situated at an altitude of about 2,438 meters (7,999 feet) above sea level. The valley is known for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and vibrant flowers, making it a popular trekking destination. Key features of Dzukou Valley include:
- Flora and Fauna: Dzukou Valley is renowned for its rich biodiversity. During the summer season, the valley is carpeted with a variety of colorful flowers, including lilies, aconitums, and euphorbias. The Dzukou Lily, a rare and endemic flower, is a highlight of the valley.
- Trekking: The valley is a trekker’s paradise, attracting adventure enthusiasts from various parts of the country. The trek to Dzukou Valley usually begins from the base camp near the town of Viswema in Nagaland. The trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Japfu Peak: The Japfu Peak, which is the second-highest peak in Nagaland, is located near Dzukou Valley. Trekkers often combine the Dzukou Valley trek with a climb to Japfu Peak to enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape.
- Seasonal Variation: The valley experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. While summer brings a burst of colorful flowers, winter often covers the valley in a blanket of snow. The monsoon season can make the trails slippery and challenging.
- Accessibility: Dzukou Valley is accessible by road from the capital city of Nagaland, Kohima. The nearest airport is Dimapur Airport. Trekkers usually begin their journey from the village of Zakhama, which serves as a base for the trek. The valley’s beauty and tranquility make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
2. Gurez Valley
Gurez Valley is located in the northern part of the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the high Himalayas and is known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine landscapes, and unique culture. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is traversed by the Kishanganga River. Key features of Gurez Valley include:
- Geography: Gurez Valley is situated at an elevation of around 8,000 feet above sea level. It is surrounded by mountains, including the Habba Khatoon range.
- Kishanganga River: The Kishanganga River flows through the valley, adding to its scenic beauty. The river is an important tributary of the Jhelum River.
- Isolation: Due to heavy snowfall in winter, Gurez Valley remains cut off from the rest of the region for a significant part of the year. This isolation has contributed to the preservation of its unique culture and traditions.
- Culture: The people of Gurez Valley are primarily of Dardic origin and have their own distinct culture and language. They are known for their hospitality and warmth.
- Tourism: Gurez Valley has started gaining attention as a tourist destination in recent years. The stunning landscapes, alpine meadows, and opportunities for trekking and other adventure activities attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
- Dawar: Dawar is the main town in Gurez Valley and serves as the administrative headquarters. It is also a base for tourists exploring the region.
- Military Significance: Given its proximity to the Line of Control (the de facto border between India and Pakistan in Kashmir), Gurez Valley has strategic importance, and there are military installations in the area. Travel to Gurez Valley may require permits due to its proximity to sensitive border areas. It’s always advisable to check the current political and security situation before planning a visit to this region.
3. Chopta – Uttarakhand
Chopta is located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is a part of the Rudraprayag district and is situated at an elevation of around 2,680 meters (8,790 feet) above sea level. Chopta is often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand” due to its stunning landscapes and lush green meadows surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Key highlights of Chopta include:
- Tungnath Temple: Chopta is the base for the trek to Tungnath, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world. The trek to Tungnath is relatively moderate and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.
- Chandrashila: Beyond Tungnath, there is another trek that leads to Chandrashila, a summit situated at an altitude of about 4,000 meters. The panoramic views of the Himalayas from Chandrashila are truly mesmerizing, especially during sunrise.
- Deoria Tal: Another popular trekking destination near Chopta is Deoria Tal. It is a serene lake surrounded by dense forests and offers reflections of the surrounding peaks in its clear waters.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Chopta is known for its scenic beauty with lush green meadows, rhododendron forests, and stunning views of the snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
- Wildlife: The region around Chopta is rich in biodiversity, and you may come across various species of birds and wildlife during your visit.
- Base for Adventure: Chopta serves as a base for various adventure activities such as trekking, camping, and bird watching. It is also a peaceful destination for those seeking solitude and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The best time to visit Chopta is during the summer months (April to June) when the weather is pleasant, and the meadows are in full bloom. The winter months (October to March) bring snowfall, transforming the region into a winter wonderland, but the temperatures can be quite cold. Chopta is well-connected by road, and the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, while the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
4. Mawlyngong – Meghalaya
Mawlyngong is a village located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is often considered one of the cleanest villages in Asia. The village is known for its cleanliness, eco-friendly initiatives, and picturesque surroundings. Mawlyngong is situated close to the India-Bangladesh border. Key features of Mawlyngong include:
- Cleanliness: Mawlyngong has gained recognition for its cleanliness and the community’s efforts to maintain a clean and green environment. The villagers actively participate in cleanliness drives and maintain proper waste disposal systems.
- Living Root Bridges: The region is known for its living root bridges, which are a unique form of bioengineering where the roots of rubber trees are manipulated to form natural bridges over rivers and streams.
- Greenery and Scenic Beauty: The village is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil environment.
- Skywalk: Mawlyngong has a skywalk that provides visitors with panoramic views of the Bangladesh plains and the distant hills of Meghalaya. The skywalk is constructed with bamboo and offers a unique perspective of the surrounding beauty.
- Community-Based Tourism: The village has embraced community-based tourism, allowing visitors to experience the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Homestays are available for tourists who want an authentic experience of the local way of life.
5. Dhanushkodi – Tamilnadu
Dhanushkodi is a small town located at the southeastern tip of the Rameswaram Island in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated on the Palk Strait, which separates mainland India from the island of Sri Lanka. Dhanushkodi is known for its historical and religious significance.
One of the notable features of Dhanushkodi is the Adam’s Bridge, also known as Rama’s Bridge or Rama Setu. According to Hindu mythology, this bridge was built by Lord Rama’s army to reach Lanka and rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. The bridge is a chain of limestone shoals and sandbanks, and while it is partially submerged, some remnants are still visible.
Dhanushkodi was once a flourishing town with a railway station, a customs office, and other facilities. However, a devastating cyclone in 1964 led to the destruction of the town, and it has since remained largely uninhabited. The remnants of the railway tracks and buildings are still visible, giving the place a ghost-town-like appearance.
Despite its desolation, Dhanushkodi attracts tourists and pilgrims who visit the area to explore its unique landscape and religious significance. The serene beaches and the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean add to the natural beauty of Dhanushkodi. Travelers often take excursions to this remote location to experience its historical charm and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
6. Hemis – Leh
Hemis is a village located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for the Hemis Monastery, which is one of the largest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. Here’s a brief tourist guide to Hemis:
1. Hemis Monastery:
- Overview: Hemis Monastery is the highlight of the village, and it is renowned for its annual Hemis Festival, which celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava.
- Architecture: The monastery has a distinctive architectural style with colorful frescoes, thangkas, and a massive copper-gilt statue of Lord Buddha.
- Festival: If possible, plan your visit during the Hemis Festival (usually in June or July), when monks perform sacred masked dances and rituals.
2. Getting There:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. From Leh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hemis.
- By Road: Hemis is well-connected by road, and you can hire a taxi or take a bus from Leh. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
3. Accommodation:
- There are limited accommodation options in Hemis. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Many tourists prefer to stay in Leh and make a day trip to Hemis.
4. Local Cuisine:
- While in Hemis, you can try traditional Ladakhi cuisine. Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplings), and local barley-based dishes are popular choices.
5. Weather:
- Ladakh experiences extreme weather conditions. Summers (June to September) are the best time to visit when the weather is pleasant. Winters are extremely cold, and many areas, including Hemis, may be inaccessible.
6. Permit:
- Make sure you have any required permits, as certain areas in Ladakh may require permits for tourists. Check the latest travel regulations and obtain permits in advance.
7. Local Customs:
- Respect the local customs and traditions. When visiting monasteries, dress modestly, remove your shoes, and adhere to photography restrictions if any.
8. Health Precautions:
- Due to the high altitude, visitors are susceptible to altitude sickness. Take it easy during the first couple of days to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and consider carrying basic medication.
9. Explore Nearby Attractions:
- Hemis is located in a scenic region. Consider exploring nearby attractions such as Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and the Pangong Lake.
10. Shopping:
- You can find local handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and Tibetan artifacts in and around the monastery. Bargaining is common in local markets.
7. Lunglei – Mizoram
Lunglei is a town located in the Indian state of Mizoram. Mizoram is a northeastern state of India, sharing borders with Myanmar to the east and south, Bangladesh to the west, and the Indian states of Tripura, Assam, and Manipur to the north. Lunglei is one of the major towns in Mizoram and serves as the headquarters of the Lunglei District. Here are some key points about Lunglei:
- Geography: Lunglei is situated on the southern part of Mizoram and is surrounded by picturesque hills and landscapes. The region is known for its lush greenery and scenic beauty.
- District Headquarters: Lunglei serves as the administrative headquarters of the Lunglei District, which is one of the eleven districts in Mizoram.
- Culture: Like the rest of Mizoram, Lunglei is known for its rich cultural heritage. The majority of the population in Mizoram consists of various Mizo tribes, and their traditional customs, festivals, and music are an integral part of the local culture.
- Economy: The economy of Lunglei, as well as Mizoram in general, is primarily based on agriculture. The region is known for cultivating crops such as rice, maize, and horticultural products.
- Tourism: The natural beauty of Mizoram, including Lunglei, attracts tourists. Lunglei offers opportunities for trekking and exploring the natural surroundings. The local culture and traditional Mizo architecture also contribute to the appeal for tourists.
- Transportation: Lunglei is connected by road to other major towns in Mizoram and neighboring states. Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, is a major city nearby, and there are bus services connecting Lunglei to Aizawl and other towns.
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