Hidden Gems 10 Best Offbeat Places to Visit in India With Family
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- on Aug 30, 2023
You’re an avid traveller who is always looking for unusual spots to visit with your family that offer a real piece of local culture. While prominent attractions such as the Taj Mahal and the beaches of Goa are well-known, India’s vast and diverse environment hides many hidden jewels just waiting to be discovered. Consider travelling off the beaten road to one of these hidden treasures for a quick weekend break or an extended summer vacation. From the beautiful tea plantations of Munnar to the ancient Buddhist temples of Ladakh, India has a plethora of hidden gems for you and your loved ones to discover. Pack your luggage for an exciting vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime at one of these locations. We have a list of best places to visit in India.
Unexplored Udaipur: For a Royal Rajasthani Getaway
Udaipur, the lovely city of lakes, is an ideal offbeat Rajasthan family vacation destination. Udaipur, known as the “Venice of the East,” offers a spectacular retreat from congested tourist circuits with its natural beauty and mediaeval palaces.
Udaipur has something for everyone, with its tranquil lakes, imperial splendour, and vibrant local culture. Start your day by staring out your hotel balcony at the picturesque Pichola Lake or exploring the old city’s meandering streets. A boat excursion to Jag Mandir Palace, the largest island in Lake Pichola, is a must. The marble architecture and spacious grounds of the palace will take you to the golden days of the Mewar dynasty.
Visit the majestic City Palace, which displays precious antiques and artworks, for a glimpse into the region’s history. The Crystal Gallery, with its spectacular display of royal crystals, will appeal to children. In the evening, visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, also known as the “Garden of Maidens,” to meander amid gorgeous lawns, lakes, and fountains.
A 30-minute trip from Udaipur takes you to the beautiful Ranakpur Jain temples, an architectural marvel with 1,444 distinct pillars. Trek to the picturesque Eklingji and Nathdwara temples situated in the Aravalli Hills for an adventure.
Udaipur embodies the soul of Rajasthan, with its vibrant culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances, and folk music. The city has a treasure trove of handicrafts, fabrics, tiny paintings, and silver jewellery for eager consumers. Udaipur’s tranquillity, natural splendour, and old-world charm make it an ideal destination for family bonding in gorgeous settings.
Offbeat Orchha: A Cultural Gem in Madhya Pradesh
Offbeat Orchha is a cultural jewel in Madhya Pradesh that is ideal for a family vacation.
This historic village, located on the banks of the Betwa River, was formerly the capital of the Bundela Rajput empire.
Many well-preserved palaces and temples in Orchha demonstrate a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Among the must-see attractions are:
Orchha Fort Complex – Within its walls are various palaces and temples, including the Raja Mahal and the Rai Praveen Mahal. It provides an insight into the town’s rich history and culture.
Chaturbhuj Temple – This 16th-century temple is notable for its distinctive construction, which mixes Mughal and Rajasthani elements. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and gives panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its higher floors.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple – This vibrant temple honours Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. It is decorated in bright murals and houses a 2 metre tall Lord Vishnu idol.
Phool Bagh – These lovely gardens are complete with groomed lawns, pavilions, and fountains. They were created as a tribute to Bundela prince Dinman Hardaul in the early 18th century. The grounds are ideal for a family picnic in the midst of nature.
Rafting on the Betwa River – With rapids ranging from Grade I to IV, the Betwa River provides spectacular rafting options. Rafting tours are a fantastic way for adventure-seeking families to enjoy the magnificent natural beauty of Orchha.
Offbeat Orchha, with its rich history, culture, and natural surroundings, has something for everyone in the family. Discover this hidden gem during your next trip to India.
Munnar, Kerala: For a Picturesque Hill Station Experience
Munnar, located in Kerala’s Western Ghats mountain range, is a lovely hill station that offers a pleasant retreat from the heat and congestion. Munnar’s elevation of roughly 1,600 metres keeps the temperature pleasantly temperate all year, making it a perfect family vacation destination.
Families would undoubtedly appreciate the following popular Munnar attractions: Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park, which is home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, is a UNESCO World Heritage site about 30 minutes from Munnar. Take a guided tour of the park to see species such as tahr, elephants, and birds in their natural habitat. When the hill slopes are carpeted in purple from the flowering Neelakurinji flowers, the park is exceptionally beautiful.
Tea Plantations
A vacation to Munnar would be incomplete without a visit to the magnificent tea estates that cover the hillsides.
Some plantations provide tours of how tea leaves are chosen and processed.
The aromatic perfume of tea leaves fills the air as you walk or ride through the farms. Stop at one of the roadside booths along the way for a cup of masala chai.
Mattupetty Dam and Lake
Mattupetty Dam and the lake it contains are only 13 km from Munnar and are flanked by green hills and tea gardens. Rent paddle boats or rowboats to enjoy lakeside activities.
The neighbouring Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Farm is home to over 100 different types of cattle and is an excellent place for youngsters to watch and learn about them.
Munnar has activities for all ages, from adventure sports to peaceful boat trips, all set against a stunning natural setting. Munnar is a wonderful family-friendly place for a fast weekend escape or relaxing holiday in Kerala, with pleasant weather all year.
In this quaint hill station, enjoy the picturesque views, learn about tea culture, and spend quality time with loved ones.
Untouched Pondicherry: A Beachside French Rendezvous
Pondicherry, a former French colony, is a charming beach resort with a somewhat European flavour. Pondicherry’s French Quarter, located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, is a lovely region with tree-lined boulevards, colonial homes, and trendy cafes. It is one of the best tourist places in India.
Beach Promenade
The Promenade Beach, commonly known as the Rock Beach, is the main draw. This picturesque 1.5-kilometer seaside walkway is great for an evening stroll. The promenade, which is lined with historic monuments, statues, and gardens, provides stunning views of the sea.
Auroville
Auroville, an experimental community built in 1968, is located just outside of Pondicherry. Auroville aspires to be a universal city where people from all over the world can coexist peacefully. The Matrimandir, a massive golden sphere that serves as Auroville’s spiritual and cultural centre, is open to visitors. The neighbouring gardens and woodlands are also a serene haven.
The French Quarter
The French Quarter of Pondicherry, commonly known as Ville Blanche, is the hub of the French town. The lovely yellow buildings, boutiques, art galleries and French-influenced cafés and bistros border the lush cobblestone lanes. The Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges church, the Raj Nivas palace and museum, and the Pondicherry Museum, which displays artefacts relating to Pondicherry’s history, are all must-sees.
Beaches: Pondicherry has several other beaches along its coastline in addition to the Promenade Beach. Paradise Beach, Auroville Beach, and Serenity Beach are the most popular. These secluded and clean beaches provide an opportunity to relax and unwind, go swimming or surfing, or simply enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
Pondicherry is a beautiful resort for families, couples, and lone travellers.
This old French enclave preserves a distinct air that makes it one of India’s most appealing locations, with its beaches, boutiques, cafes, and historical monuments. A visit to this gorgeous coastal town is likely to leave you with lasting memories.
Hampi, Karnataka: Exploring the Forgotten Kingdom
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, is one of India’s most fascinating offbeat vacation locations. Hampi, once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, is littered with fascinating remnants from the long-forgotten kingdom. Exploring the old architectural wonders with your family will be an adventure you will remember for years to come.
Royal Ruins Exploration
The imperial Vijayanagara Empire ruins in Hampi cover an area of more than 40 square kilometres and include hundreds of monuments including temples, palaces, market streets, and aquatic structures.
The Virupaksha Temple, Vitthala Temple, and the Elephant Stables are among the significant attractions. The Virupaksha Temple, erected in the 15th century, is one of Hampi’s oldest operating temples. The Vitthala Temple, with its magnificent stonework chariot and musical pillars, is
an architectural wonder. The Elephant Stables, with domed chambers and arched entrances, give you a glimpse into the grandeur of the Vijayanagara kings.
Activities and Adventure
Aside from the royal remains, Hampi provides options for adventure and outdoor activities for families. Bouldering on the big granite boulders is possible, with spectacular views of the ruins in the background. The Tungabhadra River accommodates sports like as coracle riding, kayaking, and jungle hiking. Hiking to Anjaneya Hill provides panoramic views of the Achyutaraya Temple and the Tungabhadra River.
Accommodation and food
There are homestays, resorts, and villas to suit all budgets along the riverbank and among the stones. The regional cuisine is especially noteworthy, featuring dishes such as idli, vada, dosa, and bisi bele bath.
Also popular are street food and tea.
Hampi enchants you with its ancient ruins, boulder-strewn countryside, and laid-back atmosphere.
Enchanting Coorg: For a Misty Green Mountain Escape
Coorg is an alternative tourist resort in Karnataka that promises a revitalising getaway into nature. It is nestled in the beautiful green hills of the Western Ghats.
Misty Hills and Vast Plantations
The hill station is surrounded by undulating hills, lush forests, and acres upon acres of coffee and spice farms. Take long drives and treks to take in the beautiful environment. Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls are beautiful waterfalls set within lush woodlands.
Outdoor Activities & Adventure
Coorg has chances for trekking, camping, rafting, and other outdoor activities. Tadiandamol, Coorg’s highest peak, may be reached on a guided hike. The Barapole River is excellent for rafting, particularly after the monsoons. Jeep safaris and ATV trips through plantations and gravel roads are fun ways to see the countryside.
Colonial Bungalows and Regional Food
Coorg has a significant colonial heritage, which is reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Stay at a heritage homestay that has been transformed from a plantation bungalow. Try pandi curry (pork curry), kadumbuttu (rice dumplings), and kari kadubu (rice cakes), all classic Kodava dishes.
Weather Conditions and the Best Time to Visit
The climate in the hill station is nice all year. From June through August, the monsoons cover the hills in rich foliage. Winter is chilly and misty from December through February.
Spring is in full bloom from March to May. After the rains, September to November is wonderful, with green scenery and less visitors.
A journey to Coorg with your family delivers natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural encounters in the picturesque Western Ghats. Its misty hills, forests, waterfalls, and plantations will captivate both children and adults looking to get away from it all, making it one of the best places to visit in India and perfect for a family vacation destination. Visit this verdant utopia with your family and make unforgettable memories.
Alluring Almora: The Ideal Himalayan Hill Town
Almora is a scenic hill town in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon Himalayas.
This charming village, surrounded by lush pine trees, provides an ideal respite from the heat and bustle of cities. Almora has a rich cultural past and beautiful environment, making it a perfect unconventional family vacation location.
Almora has a good climate with cool summers and frigid winters due to its elevation of 1,651 metres. The best months to visit are April through June and September through October. The following are some of the town’s highlights:
Bright End Corner: A scenic 2-km walk from the main bazaar leading to a vantage point offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Kasar Devi Temple: An ancient temple located in a meadow that attracts many devotees. The 2 km hike up to the temple is a delight in itself.
Katarmal Sun Temple: A historic sun temple with intricate stone carvings, located within a 30-minute drive from Almora.
Deer Park: A wildlife sanctuary housing barking deer and leopards. Jeep safaris can be arranged to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
Facilities and Activities
Almora has a number of affordable resorts, cottages, and motels that provide cosy lodging. You can go sightseeing, go on a nature walk, watch birds, or simply unwind amidst lovely surroundings.
Adventure seekers can take part in activities including trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing. The sweet bal mithai consisting of brown sugar, almonds, and milk solids is a must-try local delicacy. Almora offers a special family vacation because of its pleasant climate, natural beauty, and rich cultural legacy. Almora is the ideal place to visit if you want to escape the monotony of city life and recharge in the midst of nature. Pack your luggage and travel to this captivating Himalayan hill town for a magical family vacation.
Charming Chikkamagaluru: An Offbeat Getaway in Karnataka
Chikkamagaluru, located in the Western Ghats, is a unique hill station that provides a revitalising respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Chikkamagaluru, surrounded by lush green forests, coffee plantations, and stunning mountains, is a wonderful hidden vacation for families seeking quiet and tranquillity.
The beautiful Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and over 200 different bird species. Wildlife can be seen on jeep safaris along jungle pathways lined with teak, rosewood, and sandalwood trees. Trekking, rock climbing, and zip lines are all available at Kemmangundi Peak.
Tours of coffee plantations such as Siri, Thippagondanahalli, and Belur estates are available, where you may learn about coffee growing and processing. The aroma of freshly ground coffee beans will captivate you.
Stop near Hebbe Falls or Kallathigiri Falls for a picnic in the middle of nature and enjoy the natural beauty of the best tourist places in India.
The exquisite carvings representing mythological animals, dancers, and Hindu deities in the Hoysala architecture at Belur and Halebidu temples display the artistic ability of 12th century craftsmen.
Visit the 900-year-old Amruteshwara Temple, which has a spinning Nandi figure, and the 12th-century Agasteshwara Temple, both of which are dedicated to Lord Shiva. With stone pillars, domes, and arches, the temples are architectural and sculptural marvels.
Chikkamagaluru is a revitalising vacation due to its favourable weather, rich flora, and coffee farms. This picturesque hill town tucked away in the Western Ghats provides a great family trip due to its abundant natural beauty, wildlife, adventure activities, spirituality, and legacy.
FAQs: Most Common Questions About Travelling to Offbeat Places in India
Travelling to offbeat destinations in India with family requires some advance planning to ensure a memorable trip. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting remote places in India:
Do we need any special permits?
Some offbeat destinations may require special permits, especially those near international borders or protected areas. Check if you need an Inner Line Permit or Protected Area Permit and apply in advance. Permits are usually easy to obtain by providing proof of identity and residence.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation options may be basic in secluded areas. Expect simple homestays, eco-lodges, or tent camps rather than luxury hotels. Do research on locations and amenities to find suitable lodging for your family. Some places may have limited electricity or Internet access, so be prepared for a disconnected experience.
How do we get there?
Reaching offbeat destinations often requires multi-modal transport. You may need to take flights or trains to the nearest major city or town, then continue by road. Some places are only accessible by dirt roads, so an SUV or 4WD vehicle is recommended. For remote villages, the only way in or out may be by foot, bicycle or local buses. Plan your route carefully based on the terrain and your family needs
Is it safe?
While most offbeat places in India are very safe, do exercise caution, especially with children. Remain vigilant about health and hygiene, and watch out for potential environmental hazards. Some areas may have occasional unrest, so check current events and advisories before travelling. Most importantly, respect local customs to avoid misunderstandings. With normal safety precautions, you can thoroughly enjoy your trip.
What should we bring?
Bring medications, snacks, bottled water, flashlights, bug repellent, and basic amenities. Pack weather-appropriate attire, as well as comfortable walking shoes.
Carry extra cash with you because ATMs may be rare. Don’t forget to bring chargers, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Avoid plastics and bring reusable bags to be a responsible traveller. Travel as light as possible while leaving room for mementos!
Visiting unusual spots in India with family can be a wonderful adventure with some ahead planning. Have a fantastic trip!
Conclusion
Consider going off the beaten path to explore some of India’s hidden beauties when you plan your next family holiday. While the Taj Mahal and the beaches of Goa will always be popular, India has a plethora of overlooked sites ideal for a wonderful family vacation. The possibilities for adventure range from the picturesque splendour of Munnar to the historic forts of Chittorgarh. An open mind and an adventurous attitude will allow you to forge your own path and make treasured experiences with loved ones. Instead of following the throng, be brave enough to embark on your own adventure of discovery. The benefits of seeing these hidden places of India will linger with you long after you return home. Get a quotation of your customised family tour and embark on your next adventure with your family exploring the un-ventured travel destinations in India.