Indians who have put down roots abroad wish to experience the most of India but end up tracking down a handful of places.
No worries! Let’s have quick navigation of some peppy offbeat travel destinations in India exclusive for NRIs:
Auli, Uttarakhand
On the way towards Badrinath in the Land of the Gods there lies a place called Auli or Bugyal situated at an altitude of 2500 meters. Fully covered with snow throughout the year, Auli makes the perfect destination for the fun and frolics interested in skiing in the slopes of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges.
Auli also has Asia’s longest cable car (Air Lift) approximately 4 km from which you can view the panoramic oaks, deodar and coniferous forests along with the lofty peaks of the Himalayan range.
Minicoy Island, Lakshwadeep
This place is highly recommended for adventure enthusiasts. With clear turquoise water, clean white sands, coral reefs, Minicoy or Maliku, the crescent-shaped island of Lakshwadeep is one of the most ‘must visit’ place for all the bag packers. Referred to as “female island” by Marco Polo, the island is actually closer to the Maldives than Lakshwadeep.
The shallow and long lagoons make the island not just perfect for Kayaking but also for scuba diving and snorkeling. Watch colorful fishes, different types of turtles, sponges, corals, and giant clams, or alternatively, you can also take a Glass bottom boat ride to catch a glimpse of the tranquil underwater territory.
Hampi, Karnataka
This place recommended for people fond of travel, art, history, and culture. Hardly 330 km from Goa, Hampi in Karnataka is slowly being discovered by the wanderers or the backpackers who are often known for traveling the lesser known routes.
An UNESCO site, Hampi takes you into the chronicles of the past where you get to witness the grandeur of Vijayanagar empire – where the kings traveled on the elephants adorned with jewelry and the gods crafted the magnificent temples perfectly.
Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, this temple complex with ancient palaces has become the hippie hotspot after Goa is plunged with tourists.
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim
If you are eager to reach one of the highest lakes in the world, then this is the place. Gurudongmar Lake is situated at the height of 5200 meters and is always partially frozen during the winters.
Considered very sacred, it is said that a portion of the lake never freezes from centuries since it was blessed by the Sikh Guru – Guru Nanak Dev himself. Hardly 5 km from the Chinese border, it is said that Guruji visited the place during his voyage to Tibet and China.
Teesta River, Sikkim
You surely cannot miss white river rafting in the crystal, icy blue and clear water of the turbulent River Teesta which originates at an altitude of 17500 ft in the North Sikkim.
Formulated for both swimmers as well as non-swimmers, the journey of the river rafting takes you both from the low levels of water to the high levels as you move through the foaming water witnessing scenic valleys, colorful fishes, panoramic vegetation and landscape to enjoy a lifetime experience. Rafting along with camping in the mountain overnight is ought to feel like a hardcore adventure enthusiast.
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
This is one of the most unexplored and purely new places of Himachal Pradesh located in the eastern side of the state. The terrain of this valley is really difficult and in winter the places become almost isolated.
Thus, the natural beauty of this gorgeous desert valley remains untouched throughout the year. Spiti Valley is well known for the number of monasteries it engulfs, out of which the most prominent is the Ki Monastery built in the 14th century in the Chinese style.
Gokarna, Karnataka
Plan a weekend trip to Gokarna in Uttar Kannada, reach Om beach, walk down to the nearest Kuddle beach and get mesmerized in the quiet tranquil beach.
Sandakphu, West Bengal
Situated at the edge of Darjeeling and Sikkim, Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal. From its summit, you can view 4 out of the 5 highest peaks in the world – Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Kangchenjunga.
