‘Incredible’ is a name given to India for a reason. Think of a fairytale fantasy, a dreamland scene or a heavenly abode; it’s a bet you will have no issues finding such offbeat places in India. Beauty is in abundance in this country, whether it is in the people, places or the sceneries. There are a few places in India that appear surreal and their beauty is hard to even imagine. You have to see them to believe it.
Here is a list of some offbeat travel destinations in Incredible India that will sweep you off your feet and give your imagination a new horizon.
Laitlum Canyons, Meghalaya
One of the few offbeat travel places where nature is divine, the Laitlum canyons in Meghalaya has a surreal beauty with its dewy hills, bamboo plants, charming orchids and hazy clouds. If you have a hankering for panoramic views, mystical mists and nebulous fog, head to the Laitlum Canyons. Home to the abundance of natural beauty, Laitlum Canyons is sure to make you bow your head in the new found respect for nature and God’s choicest creations.
Distance from Shillong by road: 101 kms
Best time to visit: October to February
Things to know:
- It is best to reach the place in the early hours of the morning if you want to stay here till long, as by late afternoon the place is covered by a blanket of dense fog
- It is best to carry snacks and water along as you are not likely to get anything en route.
- The nearest village ‘Smit’ is 6 kms away.
Sandakphu, West Bengal
It is one of the five highest peaks of the world and is created by nature with patience and lots of artistry. It is hard to find such diversity in the natural beauty anywhere else in the world. If you like orchids, then this place is a must visit for you as here you find 600 odd and rare varieties of Orchids. Any time of the day or night, the beauty of Sandakphu is priceless and unparalleled.
Distance from Darjeeling by road- 83kms
Best time to visit– any time of the year
Things to know–
- It is the highest peak of West Bengal.
- The trek from Sandakphu to Phalut has the most amazing views and it is advisable to take a stopover at this point.
- There is no water available on the route, so it is advisable to take plenty of water.
Majuli, Assam
Unarguably one of the most surreal places in India, Majuli in the Assam state is the largest river island in the world. A UNESCO world heritage site, Majuli is connected only with boats from the small town of Jorhat and is still unknown to many tourists. Visit this offbeat travel destination during monsoon and witness the most picturesque and paradisiacal scenery on earth.
Distance from Guwahati by road: 349kms
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to know:
- The locals are well versed in both Hindi and English languages, so talk to them, see the places they suggest and get the most out of your trip.
- Majuli celebrates a number of tribal festivals in the month of October, January, and April, so if you are there during this time, make sure you see it.
- Visit the Salmara and Samugari villages near Majuli and witness great craftsmanship of the villagers.
- The best way to stay there is in the bamboo huts just like the village houses.
The Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Wake up to the surreal beauty of the white salt desert as far as your eyes can see in the Rann of Kutch. Spread in the western district of Gujarat, the sprawling beautiful desert looks blissful in the full moon night and gives you a feeling of solace. Every year world famous Kutch festival is organized and tourists from all over the globe come to enjoy the colorful festival on the white sands of the great desert.
Distance from Ahmedabad by road: 272kms
Best time to visit: October to February
Things to know:
- While in Kutch, don’t forget to visit the Kutchi villages to see the woven masterpieces by the villagers.
- It is a well-known place to buy patola silk, Guajarati ghagra cholis, bandhanis, embroided quilts and interesting handicraft décor items. The handicrafts of Kutch are famous across the world.
- You can spot flamingos in a huge number as it is a breeding ground for them.