Travel - Best Places of Interest

August 8, 2019 Travel, Within India

What are the best and hidden places to visit in India? Part 4

Continuing my series on What are the best and hidden places to visit in India?

India is a vast country with many attractions mainly for Travel & Tourism. Many foreigners visit India to spend a memorable and unforgettable holiday trip experience in their lives. India is also home to different types of landforms, culture, tradition, and languages.

Following is a list of best and hidden treasures which mostly remain unexplored-

Kaziranga National Park

Declared a UNESCO Heritage Site, the National Park is home to the one-horned rhinos which attract tourists from all over the world. Spotting a one-horned rhinoceros in its stomping yard is an experience that you can live to tell your grandchildren.

Tawang Monastery

Situated at a height of 10,000 feet in Arunachal Pradesh, the Tawang Monastery gives a breathtaking view of the valley. Home to 450 monks, this is the perfect place to visit for a surreal experience. You can also sit and just admire the captivating view of the Tawang River in the evening.

Ziro Valley

The Ziro Valley is one of the best places to see in North East as it presents you with some memorable views that are going to be etched in your memory forever. Though, the valley is most famous for its three days night rock concert, which is held annually towards the end of September. Being a part of the event will give you an experience of your lifetime.

Nathu La Pass

The name of the pass translates to “listening ears”. The trek on the Nathu La pass is one of the major highlights of North East tourism as it gives a refreshing feeling to every traveler who experiences it. During the trek, you are treated to the views that remain ingrained in your memory for a lifetime, and you get to spot some beautiful lakes on the way.

Siang River for River Rafting

A tributary of the Brahmaputra River, it has inherited its fierceness from its mother as well. It serves as a home to the Adi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. River rafting in the Siang River is a major attraction. It is certainly one adventure that you should undertake with your friends. The thrill of the Grade III and Grade IV rivers make it worth it.

Cherrapunji

The wettest place in the world finds its home in Meghalaya. While Cherrapunji is famous for its living root bridges, formed due to continuous rain, it is also popular for being one of the best Northeast India destinations for a holiday. You can also set up a camp underneath these bridges and live close to nature like never before!

Madhuri Lake

Named after the famous Indian actress, Madhuri Dixit, the lake is one of the best places to see in the North East. Though, it was earlier known as Shungaster Lake. A little army cafeteria near the lake serves up some delicious momos, which you can enjoy while soaking the peace around. And believe me, with the calming view of the lake providing respite, the momos will taste better.

Sandakphu Trek

The highest peak of the Sikkim-West Bengal border, Sandakphu peaks at over 11,000 above the sea level. The feeling of reaching the summit is nothing less than an achievement. The trek is surely a boost to the confidence as the Khangchendzonga watches over from the distance, and offers you joy in abundance.

Majuli Islands

The river island is situated in the mighty Brahmaputra and is one amazing place to see in the North East. It is a cultural hub of the region, with a number of tribes calling it their home. The size of the island was originally 1200 sq. km, but it has now come down to just 420 sq. km. due to the erosion from the Brahmaputra. Nevertheless, it’s an astonishing place to witness on your trip.

Dawki

If you do not know about the transparent Dawki river in Meghalaya, chances are you have been living under a rock. Dawki is a town in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya popularly known for the beautiful lake. Umngot River in Dawki is one of the cleanest rivers in the world that you can clearly see the bottom. Taking a boat ride one the Umngot River is one of the things you must do in Dawki.

Nohkalikai Falls

If you haven’t been to the fourth highest waterfall in the world, I’d say now is the time you do! With a mere 5 km drive from the stunning land of Cherrapunji, a short trek would lead you up to this gorgeous pool where you can see the pristine waterfall flowing from up above.

Umiam Lake

Just a 17 km distance from Shillong, this mesmerizing lake in the region will surely sweep you off your feet. If you haven’t been to this natural beauty yet, you’re missing out on a stunning place in the northeast. Attracting several tourists throughout the year, this lake is surrounded with coniferous forests and is one of the main sites for watersports!

Bihu Festival

Held in the scenic state of Assam, the Bihu festival is an amalgamation of three festivals spread throughout the year. The whole area is filled with enthusiasm and colour, which will make you feel like you have come to associate with the region. Attending this extravaganza is indeed an experience worth having during your trip to the North East.

Talatal Ghar

Literally translated to the “Royal Palace,” the Talatal Ghar was built by Swargadeo Singha in the 18th century. The 7 storied palace is not your usual palace, which serves up a heavy dose of grandeur. Its modesty and unusual architecture are a delight to witness as it offers a truly enriching experience. So, if you’re a history buff, make sure you visit this place on your next trip.

Darjeeling

Jaw-dropping locales, mesmerizing sunrises, the untouched beauty of the hills, the old-world charm of the past, and the welcoming smiles of the local people all add up to make Darjeeling one of the most beautiful hill stations in Eastern part of India. Spread over a steep mountain ridge, nestled amidst acres of lush green tea plantations, Darjeeling stands at the height of 2,050 meters above sea level, thus boasting of cool climes all year round. This scenic hill station is the perfect getaway for a romantic honeymoon.

Personal View

As you know, India is blessed with many amazing places that attract tourists from around the world. It may take your entire lifetime to visit all the beautiful places in India. Your list of amazing places in India may vary from the places mentioned above.

~ Mohit Bansal Chandigarh

So, have you been to any of these best and hidden places in India?

What are the best and hidden places in India? Part 3

Continuing my series on one of the best and hidden places in India to visit are:

1- Chopta: Mini Switzerland of India

Snow-capped mountains view from Chopta-Tungnath Trek
Alok Prasad (flickr.com/photos/alokprasad) – I (Alokprasad (talk)) created this work entirely by myself.

I’ve explored a #Mini_Switzerland of India, Chopta which is an unspoiled natural destination and still unexplored by travelers.
It is a beautiful hill station having superb #treks and trails cutting through #jungles and grassland.

2- Majkhali: An Unexplored Suburb in Ranikhet

Majkhali, snow-capped Himalayan peaks in India

#Majkhali is famous for its awe-inspiring panoramic sights and snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Trishul and Nanda Devi.

Majkhali is the most beautiful, #unexplored_travel_destination, which is surrounded by the pine, oak and deodar forest.

3- Binsar: God’s Blessing

#Binsar is a beautiful, picturesque less explored destination, situated in Uttarakhand, which offers the attraction of 300 degrees of a panoramic view of Himalayas.

It is a #paradise for those who enjoy peace in nature’s bounty.

God has blessed Binsar with the best in everything.

4- Mukteshwar: The Charming city of Nainital

Mukteshwar, charming city of Naintal, India

#Mukteshwar is a settlement and an unexplored natural destination. It is an unspoiled stunning hill station having loads to offer.

The morning view from Mukteshwar is rejuvenating once the rays of the sun kiss the snowy mountain range with the chirping of birds.

5- Munsiyari: Little Kashmir of India

#Munsiyari is a small suburb with an awe-inspiring panorama snuggled in the folds of snow-clad peaks of Himalayas. It offers spellbinding vistas of virgin nature and the gateway of three glaciers namely Milam, Namik and Ralam Glaciers.

Famous for its nature beauteousness, the small hamlet of Munsiyari is a base camp for trekking enthusiasts, mountaineers, and nature lovers.

6- Landour: Royal crown on the top of the Queen’s head

#Landour is a sleepy little cantonment town adjoining with Mussoorie, was named after a village called Llanddowror in south-west Whales.

If Mussoorie is a “Queen Of Hills”, then Landour can be termed as the “royal crown on the top of the Queen’s head”.

~ Aakash Yadav, traveller

Have you been to any of these best and hidden places in India?

What are the best and hidden places in India to visit?

Sakleshpur:

If an offbeat, non-commercial location is where you want to go for your holiday, then Sakleshpur, a quaint hill town located amidst the mist-covered hills of Western Ghats is the place. As a couple, you can trek in the untouched forest reserves, visit the Manjarabad Fort and watch the beautiful sunset together.

Horsley Hills:

Located in the state of Andhra Pradesh and not far from Bangalore, Horsley Hills are a series of hills that are blessed with jaw-dropping views of the valley, rich flora and fauna, and a sparse tourist population that leaves the beauty of the place un-spoilt, making it a perfect destination for your weekend.

Ooty:

Call it the king of all weekend locations, Ooty has been the go-to destination for many couples since time immemorial. The majestic Nilgiris, the aromatic tea estates, the beautiful valley, and the low-hanging clouds, what else would you want for your vacation?

You may like to read Best Places to visit in Ooty

Nandi Hills:

If you are looking to celebrate your holiday in resorts near Bangalore, then Nandi Hills is the perfect place to go. Nandi Hills is an offbeat honeymoon destination as it is not far away from Bangalore and yet has enough in store for romantic couples like the beautiful views from the hilltop and the historical temples around. Discovery Village on Nandi Hills is one of the best resorts in Bangalore and is custom-made for married couples.

Coorg:

Scotland of India, Coorg is a gem in the crown of the Western Ghats and a paradise. In spite of being a major tourist hub, Coorg still retains its mysticism and purity, making it an ideal destination for couples in love.

Jog Falls:

It’s not a bad idea to make a wish for the longevity of your love in front of one of the highest waterfalls in India. Located in the heart of Karnataka, Jog Falls is formed when the Sharavati River makes n 830 ft. deep plunge, creating misty water clouds that give a mesmerizing aura to the entire area around.

Chikmagalur:

If you and your partner like waking up to the smell of coffee, then this place is going to be heaven. Chikmagalur is also blessed with abundant natural habitat and has famous hills, forests, waterfalls, and some breathtaking viewpoints that are perfect to take you and your partner away from the rest of the world.

Kabini:

The sound of exotic birds chirping and the soft humming of a river flowing by while you relax on a soft cot with your partner in the middle of a dense jungle. Sounds exotic? It gets even better when you are actually there. Words are not sufficient to describe the beauty of Kabini. It is perfect for a vacation!

Gundlupet:

Even imagined running around fields filled with endless rows of beautiful, yellow sunflowers? No, you don’t have to go to Europe to experience this. A trip to Gundlupet, a town on the border of Kerala and Karnataka is a sight to behold and a perfect place for a holiday.

Bheemeshwari:

If you are an adventure-loving couple and want to have a vacation filled with activities such as river crossing, trekking, camping, and other adventurous activities, then Bheemeshwari is the place to make your trip no less than a dream come true.

If you are looking for an apt holiday destination near Bangalore, then these are certainly the best amongst the lot that deserve to host this special period of your life and turn it into a memory that will last forever.

~Megha V.

One of the most dangerous airports in the world.

Paro Airport in Bhutan is 1.5 miles above sea level and surrounded by sharp peaks of up to 18,000 feet tall.

So treacherous is the landing that only eight pilots in the world are qualified to land there. Until July 2011, just one airline, Druk Air, was allowed to use the facility.

Paro day, one among the most dangerous airports in the world — Paro day
Doug Knuth from Woodstock, IL

The runway is just 6,500 feet long – one of the few in the world shorter than their elevation above sea level.

Planes have to weave through the dozens of houses that are scattered across the mountainside – coming within feet of clipping the roofs.

Strong winds whip through the valleys, often resulting in severe turbulence. Passengers who have been on flights to the airport have described the landing as ‘terrifying’.

Boeing has said that Paro airport is ‘one of the world’s most difficult for take offs and landings’.

Flights are only allowed during the daytime and under visual meteorological conditions – strict light allowances in which the pilot must make his judgements by eye rather than rely on instruments as is the case in nighttime flights.

Despite the perilous conditions, the views over the clear blue waters over the Paro river and the lush green foliage of the Himalayas are breathtaking.

An estimated 30,000 tourists use the airport each year, often for holidays in Bhutan. Yongphulla Airport in Trashigang District is the only other airstrip in the country, which is yet undergoing re-construction.

Buddha Air is the only international airline to use the airport. Anybody flying to Paro must first land in neighbouring countries then catch a connecting flight.

Paro Airport in Bhutan might look beautiful but it is one of the most dangerous airports in the world.

~ Rishabh Sahay

The approach to Paro is unbelievably complicated. It is flown visually through a valley with high mountains all around and no sight of the airport until the last moment..

Approach to runway 15, marked in red, is worse in this regard..

The approach to runway 33, marked in blue, allows a bit more of a straight final, but not by much. In either case the aircraft must emerge from the turn with correct altitude, speed and rate of descent. So the pilot has to know landmarks in the valley and how to judge correct approach profile by them. The approaches also often involve turning around higher in the valleys which again must be done by landmarks at places where it is known to be possible. It is this knowledge pilots have to demonstrate before they can attempt the approach. Pilots have to receive special training to be permitted to fly there .. and only 8 pilots in the world are qualified to get permitted.

~ Aajitya Dubey