The adrenaline rush of a thrilling adventure, the peace of mind at a silent monastery, the tranquillity of the windchimes in the mountains, the noise of the beach that pulls all the right string of our hearts – traveling while you’re young and carefree is a whole different vibe.
You can climb the highest peaks or scale the deepest ocean, glide above the mountains or dive into the clouds. You can be wherever you want to be, explore on bare minimums with a healthy mind and body supporting it all.
If you are under 30, then the only list you should be wanting to do away with is this. Presenting, 30 offbeat locations hidden in different corners of India that every young traveler must visit.
Let’s begin!
Table of Contents
1. Lepchajagat
An enchanting experience awaits for you just a few km away from the queen of hill stations Darjeeling. Sunrays peeping through the dense pine forests, a rich floral and faunal diversity, beautiful roads leading you to surreal sites – Lepchajagat is a dream too magical to be true. Just 14 km from Darjeeling, this place offers a variety of things to explore for travellers of all ages. For the young soul in you, you can always trek through these forests to reach some of the most enthralling viewpoints of North Bengal.
Distance: 14 km from Darjeeling, 630 km from Kolkata
Best time to Visit – March to August
2. Kamshet
Petite huts, pristine lakes, lush green mountains and paragliding above te beautiful scenery – Kamshet is long-forgotten by the mainstream tourist crowds. This makes it an even enticing choice for young travellers looking to explore offbeat hill stations in the country, You can even become a certified paraglider by enrolling in one of the various courses taught here. Stay a hostel and meet fellow travelers, hear their stories over a warm cup of coffee and bonfire. You will find many travelers just like you, some on a solo backpacking trip and others in a group. No matter which category you fall into, you will always find a home here.
Distance: 100 km from Mumbai, 45 km from Pune
Best Time to Visit: March to August
3. Kasol
Base camp of some of the most thrilling treks of Himachal Pradesh including Kheerganga Trek, Sar Pass Trek, Chalal Trek, and Pin Parvati Pass Trek, Kasol is best known for its quaint cafes and picturesque views. Visit the pristine lakes and hot springs and definitely try the local rice beer. For the adventure-seekers – you can set up a camp in any of the camping sites here and spend your night stargazing. Take a stroll along the local areas, markets and beautiful cafes, head out on your trekking journey to venture into the wild.
Distance: 520 km from Delhi
Best Time to Visit: October-June
4. Malvan
A beach town in the Sindhudurg District, Malvan, is the go-to place for seafood and water sport lovers. A picturesque coastline with white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters promises a safe and beautiful vacation away from the bustling city life. Go snorkelling and scuba diving to experience the diverse marine life of Malvan. Stay at a homestay to make the most out of your trip.
Distance: 520 km from Mumbai
Best Time to Visit: October-June
[Also Read: Malvan: Ruined forts, Sacred Groves & Secluded Beaches]
5. Dawki
Situated between the borders of India and Bangladesh, Dawki is a quaint town in the district of West Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya. The Umngot river of Dawki is the cleanest river in the country. Described as a floating mirror, it is a popular venue for the Annual Boat Race every March (till April). Overlook the beautiful formation of the natural boundary between Jaintia Hills and Khasi Hills. Get a glimpse of the local life while staying at a homestay here in this hidden gem of the North-East.
Distance: 175 km from Guwahati
Best time to visit: March to April
6. Vagamon
Vagamon or Wagamon is a sleepy little hill town in the southeast corner of Kerala. Vagamon partly occupies the Kottayam district and partly the Idukki district of the state and offers great opportunities for eco-tourism. Walkthrough the Vagamon Meadows, explore the pine forests, visit the Ulipponi Wildlife Sanctuary, check out the Mooppan Para canyon or head to Murugan Hill near the Thangal Para. This countryside is a relaxing destination for a holiday with friends, family or someone special.
Distance: 100 km from Cochin, 552 km from Bangalore
Best time to visit: March to September
7. Gokarna
Much different from the very popular beaches of India, Gokarna is a mix of temples and beaches. Go on a beachside trek along the coast near Gokarna or hire bikes and head out to Honey Beach in Ankola. While on your way, do not miss out on graffiti spotting around the town. Indulge in activities that will bring peace to your heart. You can get one of those famous relaxing massages or attend a session at a centre for yoga. Shop your heart out – from jewellery to garments – on the pretty streets of Gokarna. Do keep a decent amount of cash with you as very few ATMs are available there.
Distance: 163 km from Panaji, 502 km from Bangalore
Best time to Visit: September to April
8. Yercaud
The ‘Hidden Jewel of South India’, Yercaud is a picturesque hill station in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu. Translated as ‘Lake Forest’, this town is a highlight of the Eastern Ghats. Situated 5,000 feet above the sea it is best to explore Yercaud in its natural abundance. This natural sanctuary is home to a variety of species of animals, birds and insects. Visit the Killiyur Falls or the Botanical Garden. Spend a relaxing day at the Emerald Lake and take a tour of the coffee and spice plantations, orange orchards and other tropical fruit farms. Yercaud Summer Festival occurs annually in the month of May. A celebration that lasts for seven days with a flower show, village fair, and boat races is an experience of a kind.
Distance: 207 km from Bangalore
Best Time to Visit: March to September
9. Coonoor
At roughly an hour’s drive from the town of Ooty, you can reach Coonoor. The second largest hill town of Tamil Nadu, Coonoor is also called the Darjeeling of Nilgiris. A rather peculiar tourist spot, Coonoor is a historic town that has traces of colonization. With natural trails, mountainous weather, lush tea plantations and hospitable locals, Coonoor has a very distinct culture of its own. Ranging from its 100 years old tradition of food, art, and culture to a blend of contemporary lifestyle, Coonoor is indeed an alluring hill station that needs to be explored and discovered.
Distance: 360 km from Bangalore
Best Time to Visit: March-June
10. Udaipur
The city of lakes has numerous palaces and landmarks to explore. Fateh Sagar, Jaisamand Lake, Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary are some places that you must visit when you are in Udaipur. To explore culture, City Palace showcases the finest works of Rajput skills and traditions. For a religious pilgrimage, Jagdish Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu must be visited. Shilpgram Crafts Village, Sadhna Emporium, Chetak Circle, and Bapu Bazaar in Udaipur give a wholesome shopping experience that showcases its rich legacy, customs and culture.
Distance: 395 km from Jaipur
Best time to Visit: October to March
11. Hampi
Intricate rock-cut temples and a fascinating history Hampi is for the culture and history-loving backpackers. Go for the famous hikes and find that monument that matches the one on your Rs 50 note. Carry your best camera gear to capture the monumental beauty of the town. You can also visit the Lotus Mahal and take a stroll around the elephant stables. If you are visiting the town in the month of March, then stay to celebrate Holi in a grand way with fellow travelers from across the globe.
Distance: 340 km from Bangalore
Best time to Visit: October to March
12. Lakkidi
Rugged mountain terrains and a picturesque landscape, Lakkidi is not known to many of the usual tourist crowd. The views are breathtaking making it ideal for all kinds of travellers to enjoy their stay – from solo backpackers to couples. To satiate the explorer in you, visit the many places nearby. A great alternative to the popular hilly destinations, you can visit Pookode Lake, Chain Tree, Chembra Peak, Heart Lake, Thusharagiri Falls in Lakkidi to make the most of your time.
Distance: 295 km from Bangalore
Best time to Visit: March to September
13. Tranquebar
A tiny beach town just 3 hours away from Pondicherry is best known as the Danish town of India. Beautiful shores and brilliant architecture across the town, Tranquebar is best known for the scenic and surprising beauty it has to offer its tourists. Temples, churches and museums, one can see mixes of the Danish, British, German and French colonies that once made Tranquebar their home. Visiting this offbeat gem should definitely be on your list.
Distance: 438 km from Bangalore, 270 km from Chennai
Best time to visit: October to March
14. Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal defines natural beauty in the truest sense of the term. Sitting at an altitude of 7,200 feet one can explore both nature and culture in this hill station. Scenic waterfalls, beautiful lakes and rolling hills combined with Kodaikanal’s pleasant weather all throughout the year make it a great nature spot. Feast on special homemade chocolates while visiting the Kodai Lake, Green Valley View, Pillar Rocks, Bear Shola Falls or The Dolphin’s Nose.
Distance: 465 km from Bangalore, 300 km from Cochin
Best time to visit: March to June
15. Bundi
A town lined with blue houses with hills, lakes and bazaars adorning its beauty – Bundi is for the ones who seek art in every corner. Majestic and small temples are present all over the town. Every part of Bundi is a reflection of the culture that’s been passed on to for generations. Some must-visit places include Taragarh Fort, Naval Sagar Lake, Lake Nawal Sagar, Lake Kanak Sagar, Phool Sagar Lake, Nagar Sagar Kund, and Dabhai Kund. Don’t forget to get yourself a piece of art from here!
Distance: 150 km from Jaipur.
Best time to visit: October to March
16. Chikmagalur
Known as the Land of Coffee, Chikmagalur has a considerable number of coffee plantations. One can enjoy this variety of coffee offered in roadside eateries. Besides coffee, Chikmagalur boasts some of the finest attractions in the South. Visit the Mullayanagiri Peaks, Jhari Falls or Baba Budangiri for a scenic spot or relaxing walk on the grass. Jog Falls and Banavasi Temple lie on the way to Chikmagalur, a famous tourist destination for its beauty and history.
Distance: 240 km from Bangalore
Best time to visit: March to September
17. Pachmarhi
A rare hill station, Pachmarhi, located in the middle of the Satpura National Park in Madhya Pradesh. It is unique as you can enjoy Pachmarhi’s rich history or pleasant weather. Revisit the mythological tales by exploring the Pandava Caves. Jatashankar, Mahadev caves and Asthachal Cave Shelters and Bharat Neer Cave Shelter are some spots to explore in this historic town.
Distance: 20 km from Bhopal
Best time to visit: October to March
18. Mcleodganj
Whether you want to trek, explore nature or find a spiritual gateway, traveling to Mcleodganj is always a good idea. Located near Dharamshala, you can visit the Dalai Lama’s temple, Tsuglagkhang, Kalachakra Temple, St. John’s church. Besides, trekking and paragliding at the foothills of the Himalayas are also available as an alternative tourist attraction.
Distance: 530 km from Delhi
Best time to visit: March to June
19. Daragaon
Stay in a 106-year-old colonial bungalow and take a stroll around the neighbourhood or go on a hike – Daragaon is the place for the ones seeking peace away from the noise of the cities. Referred to as the ‘Balcony of Kanchenjunga’, its tranquil beauty matches its overall theme. Very close to the popular hill station of North Bengal, Kalimpong, you can explore the rustic beauty of a simple life.
Distance: 14 km from Kalimpong, 80 km from Siliguri
Best time to visit: March to June
[Also Read: Daragaon: An Offbeat Getaway]
20. Parwanoo
Located along the Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh, Parwanoo has abundant options for exploring. Part of the Shivalik range, Parwanoo’s mere beauty in itself is a reason to visit and activity to enjoy. If one longs for adventure, they may ride over the timber trail, visit fruit orchards or visit the Gorkha Fort.
Distance: 35km from Chandigarh, 277 km from Delhi
Best time to visit: March to September
21. Raghurajpur
Raghurajpur richly showcases Odia culture in Art and Religion. Famous for its Pattachitra paintings, cloth-based scroll paintings, Raghurajpur heritage art forms dating back to 5 BC.
The ‘Patas’ (traditional decoration) for the famous Lord Jagannath temple is made here. The annual Basant Utsav (Spring Festival) is packed with tourists exploring art pieces such as palm leaves, wood engravings, Tussar paintings and eco-friendly masks made of paper and cow dung.
Distance: 14 km from Puri, 60 km from Bhubaneswar
Best time to visit: February and March
22. Wayanad
Situated in the laps of Western Ghats, Wayanad is the perfect getaway from the city lifestyle. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Ambukuthi Hills, Edakkal Caves, Nagarhole National Park and Tiger Reserve are some of the places to visit to experience the variety of flora and fauna. The Soochipara Waterfalls is another scenic destination unless you are looking to enjoy rafting at Kuruvadweep.
Distance: 270 km from Bangalore
Best time to visit: March to September
23. Rishikesh
The land of spirituality, Rishikesh is famous for its ashrams and meditation centres. You will hear chants of hymns and bhajans echoing everywhere. Experiencing the evening Ganga Aarti at Rishikesh is something that will leave you amazed. However, in recent times the town also draws a lot of adventure enthusiasts. From bungee jumping to paragliding, you can do it all in Rishikesh. Go hiking with your travel buddies or set up a camp to stargaze, Rishikesh is truly a refreshing experience.
Distance: 260 km from Delhi
Best time to visit: October to March
24. Jibhi
An untouched and unimaginably pristine hamlet in the Himalayas, Jibhi is where love for the mountains isn’t just defined but multiplied. Save it to your bucket list to drink in the beautiful Himalayan vistas and to finally know what lungs full of fresh air feels like! With pine and cedar forests around, Jibhi is a great place for fishing, bird sighting and hiking. You may also choose to enjoy a laid back evening at a homestay or a hostel, enjoying the local food and indulging in animated conversations with the locals.
Distance: 493 km from Delhi
Best time to visit: March to September
25. Spiti Valley
Located in a small corner of Himachal Pradesh and covered in a thick layer of snow, Spiti Valley is known as the hub of solo travellers. Spending some time in the peaceful monasteries here will help you reconnect your own self. Stay at a hostel and meet fellow backpackers from various parts of the country. Trek through the rugged mountain ranges and mountain passes to treat your eyes and soul with breathtaking views.
Distance: 703 km from Delhi
Best time to visit: March to June
26. Auli
The sleepy hamlet in Uttarakhand, Auli is far from the tourist crowd. Nested in the beauty of the Lower Himalayas, Auli is a paradise for nature lovers. Take a stroll around the quaint town, visit the Auli Artificial Lake, Chenab Lake or have a picnic or day trek around the alpine grasslands and trekking trails of Gorson Bugyal. Visit the Chattrakund – a glacial lake situated at 3300 meters from the sea level and other popular places like Joshimath, Kiarna, Chopal, or go all the way up to Theog and Kufri.
Distance: 390 km from Delhi
Best time to visit: March to September
27. Munroe Island
Clear backwaters with a complex network of canals, Munroe Island is hidden in the treasures of South India. Known for its seafood, Munroe Island hosts boat races annually during Onam. Take a boat ride through the backwaters for aesthetically pleasing views. On your boat ride, you will experience the rich flora and fauna of Munroe Island. The sound of the chirping of birds and rustling leaves enriches the exploration. You can then retreat to your houseboat for a quaint night.
Distance: 675 km from Bangalore, 310 km from Coimbatore
Best time to Visit: November to February
28. Varkala
Known as Kerala’s ‘Temple Town’, head to Varkala for a relaxing beach vacation. Visit the Janardana Swami temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Papanasam Beach, Anjengo Fort, Varkala Tunnel when you are here. The beautiful beaches of Varkala offer an array of beach activities like swimming, parasailing, snorkelling and windsurfing, or simply sunbathing on the golden sands. Shop at the beachside shops or from the vendors selling jewellery, locally handcrafted trinkets, and colourful hippie goods.
Distance: 670 km from Bangalore, 190 km from Cochin
Best time to visit: October to March
29. Masinagudi
Located on the foothills of the lush green Nilgiri mountains, Tamil Nadu, Masinagudi remains unhindered by the exploitation of commercialization and is far away from the usually crowded tourist places. This place is a paradise for wildlife lovers. With the rich floral and faunal diversity of Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and the pristine beauty of Maravakandy Dam, Masinagudi is the ideal getaway from the humdrum of city life.
Distance: 237 km from Bangalore, 117 km from Coimbatore
Best time to visit: March to June
30. Goa
How can we end the list for youngsters without even mentioning Goa? From the lively parties of North Goa to the quaint beaches in the South, Goa has a lot to offer. Unlike popular belief that Goa is just about the nightlife, there are many undiscovered parts of this beach town. Take a walk on the colourful street of Panaji, or ride your scooter through the serene Parra road. Discover the old forts in Charao Island or go on a spice trail along the city. One can never get enough of Goa!
Distance: 561 km from Bangalore, 580 km from Mumbai
Best time to visit: October to March
