16 Most Beautiful Villages In India That You Must Visit In 2024

Seeking a rural respite in beautiful places? Here are our most beautiful villages in India to get your rustic groove going! Tired of the usual tourist hot spots and craving for some village zen? Find your roots and experience the best of ecotourism with our list of 7 stunning villages. Unknown and endowed with raw beauty and unusual cultures, these quaint hamlets offer some much-deserved peace and quiet with a whole lot of action.

16 Most Beautiful Villages In India That You Must Visit

Here are a few names of villages in India, which are worth visiting this year. Read on, to gather these villages in India information.

Poovar, Kerala – Southern Tip Of Trivandrum
Malana, Himachal Pradesh – A World On Its Own
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh – Charming Little Israel
Munsiyari, Kumaon – Old World Charm
Almora, Uttarakhand – Hidden Jewel
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya – Peculiar Attractions
Nako, Lahaul Spiti – Moon On Earth
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh – Exoticness At Best
Yana, Karnataka – Thousand Shades Of Green
Valparai, Tamil Nadu – Memorable Experiences
Khimsar, Rajasthan – A Quaint Hamlet
Gokarna, Karnataka – Perfect Beach Experience
Diskit Village, Ladakh – The Remote Treasure
Landour, Uttarakhand – Home To Ruskin Bond
Majuli, Assam – Largest River Island
Mandawa, Rajasthan – Land Of Grand Havelis

1. Poovar, Kerala – Southern Tip Of Trivandrum

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This is a pretty village of Kerala that is famous amidst tourists. It is one of the most beautiful villages in India. It is almost at the southern tip of Thiruvananthapuram. The beaches here are clean and beautiful. Relax and unwind at the beaches here on your next trip to Kerala. Also, enjoy the local flavours of the place.

Best Experiences:

Relax at the Poovar Beach in Kerala.
Enjoy boating during your visit to this beautiful village.
Visit the Aazhimala Siva Temple.

Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach:

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 30 km.
By Water: Vizhinjam is the nearest harbour at a distance of 14 km.
By Rail: Trivandrum Central is the nearest railhead at a distance of 30 km.

Where To Stay: These are few places to stay close to Poovar: Joys Resort Poovar, Uday Suites – The Airport Hotel, and Hilton Garden Inn, Trivandrum.

Must Read: 10 Offbeat Trekking Spots In The Himalayas

2. Malana, Himachal Pradesh – A World On Its Own

Foggy mountains of Malana, Himachal Pradesh

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In the mood for mystery and mountains? Then find your way to one of the most beautiful villages in India– Malana, an ancient and isolated village in northeastern Kullu valley. Visit this place not just for its fantastic views and fresh air but also to discover a unique clan. Legend has it that a tribe from Alexander’s army broke away and decided to make this beautiful valley their home.

Said to be one of the world’s oldest democracies, the people are reserved and very protective of their customs so it would be wise to be informed and respectful of their “Dos and Don’ts”.

Best Experiences:

Until recently, Malana was accessible only by trekking for 2 days from Naggar – this is still an enchanting and easy trek, taking you over the Chandrakhani pass.
Trek for 17 km to Kasol over the awe-inspiring Rashol Pass, with a stopover at the Rashol village. Do carry your passport as there are many checkpoints.
The easiest trek is from Jari to Malana with beautiful waterfalls along the 6-hour hike.

Best Time To Visit: March – June, and September – October

How To Reach: It is now possible to drive from Jari to Nerang. Malana is a 2-hour trek from there.

By Road: From Delhi: There are buses and taxis going up to Manali. Malana is 90 km away and there are taxis available from Manali to Jari or Nerang.
By Air: Air India flies 4 times a week from Delhi to Kullu Airport (40 km away)

Where To Stay: There are many guesthouses, backpacker style above Malana. The closest hotels are in Kasol or Naggar.

3. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh – Charming Little Israel

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This was once a quaint hamlet in the state of Himachal but has now become a weekend getaway in North India and is among the most beautiful villages in India. With just an overnight journey from Delhi, a lot of people visit this village on weekends. Kasol is a hub for youngsters and the point of various treks nearby in Himachal.

Best Experiences:

Enjoy camping at Chalal which is a mere distance of 300 meters from the village.
Take a local bus to Manikaran Sahib.
Gorge on delicacies at the German bakery.
Trek to Tosh, another beautiful village in Himachal Pradesh.

Best Time To Visit: April, May, October, and November are the best months to visit Kasol.

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu at a distance of 31 km from Kasol.
By Road: One can self-drive or hire a taxi. Buses are available too from Delhi to Bhuntar, where one needs to take a local bus towards Manikaran.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar railway station at a distance of 144 km.

Where To Stay: Hotel Sandhya, Brick And Wood Cottages, Devdhar Cottage, The Himalayan Village, and Alpine Guest House.

4. Munsiyari, Kumaon – Old World Charm

The verdant valley of Munsiyari adorned with terrace cultivation

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Number one on our list of most beautiful villages in India is Munsyari, Uttarakhand. It lies on the ancient Salt Route to Tibet and is a lush green secret ensconced in the Kumaon hills. Surrounded by snowcapped mountains and dense forests with the Goriganga river caressing it, this place is a delight for nature lovers and adventurers. Some might also say that this is the best village in India.

Best Experiences:

For the more adventurous ones, there are glacier treks to Milam and Ratlam.
Witness the magnificent views of the Panchachuli peaks on an easier 2-day trek to Khuliya Top, organized by the local KMVN.
Or you could just laze around doing nothing at all as Munsyari paints a gorgeous picture with its pink golden dawns and crimson sunsets.

Best Time To Visit: March – June, and September – October

How To Reach:

By Road: Munsyari is 650 km from Delhi. Head towards Bilaspur (NH 87) and continue towards Almora. Munsiyari is 200 km away There are 3 rollercoaster routes from Delhi to Munsiyari, with scenic stopovers on the way. From Anand Vihar ISBT one can also take buses going to Almora. It takes about 24 hours.

Where To Stay: The KMVN has a comfortable guesthouse and if you are looking for a hotel, then there is Milam Inn and Vijay Mount View Resort.

5. Almora, Uttarakhand – Hidden Jewel

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This is a beautiful green village in the northern state of Uttarakhand. The place is full of positivity and tranquility. Away from the city, the air is fresh and pure. To add on to one’s experience, the food here is delicious. Stay here for a day or 2 and rejuvenate yourselves! The refreshing aura makes it one of the most beautiful villages in India.

Best Experiences:

Visit the various temples here, namely Nanda Devi, Kasar Devi Temple, and Chitai Golu Devta Temple.
Enjoy evening walks in the lush green environs of oaks and pine trees.
Shop for unique handicrafts and local ware in the village.

Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is in Dehradun at a distance of 173 km.
By Road: There are regular buses which go to Almora and one can also hire a taxi to the village.
By Rail: Kathgodam which is 38 km away is the nearest railhead.

Where To Stay: KMVN TRH The Himalayan Eco Resort, Kasar Himalaya Holiday Home, and Deodar Homestay.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

6. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya – Peculiar Attractions

the famous living root bridge of Mawlynnong

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Tribal, misty, pristine, and squeaky clean – welcome to Mawlynnong in Meghalaya, about 90 km south of Shillong. Awarded as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003, it is a wild paradise where you can witness a powerful commitment to eco-tourism by the community and government. The Living Roots bridge engineered out of the roots of the trees is a sight to behold and is said to be over 1000 years old. Many would argue that this place is the most beautiful village in India. And they surely speak the truth.

Best Experiences:

Experience the rich wilderness of this place by trekking from Mawlynnong to the living bridge and back with a picnic stopover at the scenic Umterming waterfall.
Live the high life by staying in homestays on stilts and get treated to some delicious local cuisine.
Take a dip in a stream, get a glimpse of Bangladesh from a tower, discover pretty waterfalls, explore a cave – there’s much to do here!

Best Time To Visit: October to April

How To Reach:

By Road: Taxis are available from Shillong to Mawlynnong.
By Air: There are flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Shillong.

Where To Stay: The Resthouse has 2 cottages. Locals provide plenty of homestays too.

7. Nako, Lahaul Spiti – Moon On Earth

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Nako can make you believe that you’ve landed on the moon. Skirting the Tibetan border, it is a picturesque hamlet set amidst barren splendour. There is an ancient monastery and the Nako lake offers boating during summer and ice skating in the winter months. It is among the most beautiful villages in India.

Best Experiences:

Trek for 3 – 4 hours to the Tashigang village perched high above the Sutlej river below and be rewarded with unforgettable views. Sheep will be your occasional friends.
Take in Ladakhi life and explore the village’s stone houses, monasteries and its fields.
Visit Tabo 70 km away, a UNESCO heritage site with a monastery built in 9th century AD. Another curious village to see is Kibber, the highest village in the world, with an interesting monastery and sanctuary.

Best Time To Visit: July – August

How To Reach: The best way to reach Nako is by road – it gives you a lot more flexibility and its easier to adjust to high altitudes plus you can pack in other amazing places like Tabo and Kibber.

By Road: Taxis can be booked from Delhi or Shimla or Rampur going up to Recong Peo. There are state transport buses from Shimla to Recong Peo. Recong Peo is 4 hours away from Nako and there are buses and shared taxis available.

Where To Stay: Very basic guesthouses are Lavon Guesthouse, Galaxy Guesthouse and Reo Purgil which is a little over the top and the only hotel in town and beer is available. Nako Knaygoh Kinner Camp is overlooking the lake and has 11 tents with attached bathroom and 4 rooms.

8. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh – Exoticness At Best

The quaint village streets of Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

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The verdant Ziro valley, hidden in the hills of Arunachal Pradesh is home to all creatures exotic and is one of the most beautiful villages in India thanks to the untouched beauty of nature. The region has a lot to explore and you’ll be spoilt for choice! All visitors need an Inner Line Permit which can be procured here.

Best Experiences:

Wind through its expansive rice fields and acquaint yourself with the heavily tattooed Apatani tribe.
Get lost in the rich bio diversity of the Talley Valley Wildlife sanctuary.
Spot a hornbill.
If you are a music buff, then head to the “Ziro Festival of Music”, guaranteed to satisfy your soul with eclectic performances from India and around the world.

Best Time To Visit: March – October

How To Reach:Itanagar is 147 km away and takes 3 hours by road. There are buses and taxis available from Itanagar to Ziro.

By Air: Fly to Guwahati which is 5 ½ hours away from Itanagar or fly to Lilabari in Assam which is 67 km away from Itanagar. Airlines fly from all the Indian metros.
By Road: There are overnight buses and taxis available from Guwahati to Itanagar.

Where To Stay: Nugunuziro (on Facebook), an NGO organizes ethical and sustainable homestays. They even provide bikes and guides. Other places are the Hotel Blue Pine and Siiro Resort.

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

9. Yana, Karnataka – Thousand Shades Of Green

The verdant agricultural fields of Yana, Karnataka

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Yana, set against the Sahyadri mountains amazes you with its towering monolithic rock formations. This little village, 40 km away from the sunny coastal village of Gokarna, is hidden away in the forests, and in it lies a secret. A passage through the overhanging rocks leads to a cave (a symbol for the self-manifested Shiva Lingam) with an idol of the goddess Parvati inside.

Best Experiences:

Trek up a spectacular route to the rocks. Meandering streams in lush green surroundings and the occasional cicada will greet you.
The Vibhooti waterfalls nearby is an amazing spot to camp out under the stars.

Best Time To Visit: Popular throughout the year – the best time to go is January, September, and October

How To Reach: Yana is 25 km from Kumta and 40 km from Sirsi. The closest airport is Bangalore or Dabolim airport.

By Road: There are many overnight buses from Bangalore going up to Sirsi. Buses from Bangalore to Karwar buses go through Kumta – do confirm with the bus company).
By Rail: Infrequent trains to Kumta with Konkan Railway.

Where To Stay: In Sirsi one can stay at Sathwik Homestay, Hotel Madhuvana, Pragati Homestay, Bakula Homestay, and Areca Valley Stay.

10. Valparai, Tamil Nadu – Memorable Experiences

The gorgeous valley of Valparai, Tamil Nadu

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The approach to Valparai is one of the most enjoyable hair raising experiences you will ever have. A snakelike road from Pollachi takes you through 40 hairpin bends concealed in majestic green mountains. Rich wildlife, tribe spotting, neverending tea estates, silver waterfalls and soulful hikes – Valparai promises to satisfy all types of travellers.

Best Experiences:

Opportunities galore for wildlife and nature photography
A variety of trails to explore, from gentle 2 hour hikes to 6 hour treks, with or without a guide.
Indulge in all the tea that you can – you’re in tea country!
Visit the dams, particularly the Upper Nerar dam for its unspoilt charm. Permissions are required at most entry points.

Best Time To Visit: May to September

How To Reach: It is 104 km away from Coimbatore, 64 km from Pollachi and 110 km from Ernakulam. Closest airport and railway station is at Coimbatore.

By Road: Buses are available from Coimbatore to Pollachi. Every 30 minutes, there are heavily crowded public buses from Pollachi to Valparai which take 4 hours. Taxi services are available from Coimbatore.

Where To Stay: There are many options between hotels and homestays like Joby’s Holiday Home, Misty Creek Homestay, Valparai, Raja complex, and Sinna Dorai’s Bungalow.

11. Khimsar, Rajasthan – A Quaint Hamlet

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Khimsar is a tiny hamlet in the centre of Rajasthan. Nestled in the Thar Desert, the environs add on the aesthetics of this beautiful village. One can enjoy the true colors and essence of the desert state here at Khimsar. There are desert safaris, and camel rides that one can enjoy on their trip to this village.

Best Experiences:

Enjoy a desert safari on your visit to Khimsar.
Exlore the Khimsar Fort.
Relax at a luxury resort in Khimsar

Best Time To Visit: November to February

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is 92 km away at Jodhpur.
By Road: One can self drive or hire a taxi from Jodhpur which is 92 km away.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Jodhpur which is connected tp the major cities of India.

Where To Stay: WelcomHotel Khimsar Fort and Dunes, and Khimsar Sand Dunes Resort.

12. Gokarna, Karnataka – Perfect Beach Experience

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If you are looking for a serene place to visit in South India, then Gokarna in Karnataka is a great option. This coastal region is a great escape from the busy city life. The environs are lovely and the place has amazing food scenes. One can find all the major cuisines here at the shacks on the beaches.

Best Experiences:

Camp and stay in a tent on the beach.
Enjoy a ferry ride in the sea.
Trek to Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach which are not accesible by motorable roads.
Watch the shimmering sunset at the Om Beach.
Enjoy a meal at the Mantra Cafe at Zostel
Hire a scooty and drive down to Murudeshwar for a day trip

Best Time To Visit: October to March

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is at Dabolim, Goa at a distance of 106 km.
By Road: The village is well connected to the major cities by road and one can drive or take the local buses.
By Rail: Gokarna Road is the nearest railway station from where one can take the auto and reach the main city.

Where To Stay: Zostel, Evergreen Farm House, Coconut Tree Resort, and Shaiva Tent Cafe. The shacks at Kudle Beach and Om beach have rooms too for accomadation.

13. Diskit Village, Ladakh – The Remote Treasure

Image Credits: Hynek Moravec for Wikipedia
Diskit is sitting in the remote areas of Ladakh, on the banks of River Shok. Surrounded by the majestic mountains, this village exudes of charm and thrill that has Ladakh written all over it. Diskit Village is home to a 14th century Monastery where the locals can be seen paying their respects. A secluded village, Diskit is idyllic for those who wish to escape the crowds and embrace the simple, easy lifestyles of locals in Ladakh.

Best Experiences:

Head to the Nubra Valley for a short day trip.
Take part in bird watching.
Visit the monastery and statue of Maitreya Buddha.
Celebrate Dosmoche festival in the gompa.

Best Time To Visit: April to July

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is at Leh Airport at a distance of 116 km.
By Road: The village is well connected to the major cities by road and one can drive or take the local buses. Take the Manali-Leh highway via Manali if traveling from Himachal.

Where To Stay: Hotel Stendel Nubra Valley and Sand Dune Guest House.

14. Landour, Uttarakhand – Home To Ruskin Bond

Image Credits: Ankush Dawar for Pexels
Landour is slowly emerging as a popular tourist destination for those who seek solace. This little, serene mountain village got its fame for being home to Ruskin Bond, the famous author. The colonial vibes of this village is another addition to the experience that it has to offer. The severa trekking trails for all kinds of adventure enthusiasts is a cherry on top.

Best Experiences:

Head to Ivy Cottage and witness Ruskin Bond’s spot where he wrote his famous stories.
Visit the Char Dukan Area to witness historic shops.
Pray at the colonial era churches.
Relish the yummy jams and marmalades at Prakash Store.

Best Time To Visit: April to June

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun at a distance of 60 km.
By Road: The village is well connected to the major cities by road and one can drive or take the local buses.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is 40 kms away in Dehradun.

Where To Stay: Rokeby Manor, Doma’s Inn, and Tabor Cottage.

15. Majuli, Assam – Largest River Island

Image Credits: Zak261826 for Pixabay
Famed for being the largest river island in the entire world, Majuli is a popular destination among tourists. This village in India spread around 400 sq and has peculiar tales latched to itself. It is said that the locals here, the fishermen, have adapted the habitat of water species. They can hold their breath underwater for much longer than the average human being. The best thing about the village is the traditional Assamese culture.

Best Experiences:

Taking a ride on the boat during sunrise.
Exploring The Satra and witnessing Rasleela on full moon night.
Witness the awe-inspiring sunsets.
Pay a visit to PAthorichuk Village in the neighborhood.
Stroll around the mask maker’s gallery
Relish the traditional tribal food and rice beer

Best Time To Visit:October to March
How To Reach:

By Ferry: Ferry is the only way to reach the village. One needs to take a ferry from Jorhat which can be reached from Kolkata and Shillong via flights.

Where To Stay: La Lolat Eco Camp, Risong Guest House, Jyoti Home Bamboo Garden Lodge, and Ygdrasill Bamboo Cottage.

16. Mandawa, Rajasthan – Land Of Grand Havelis

Image Credits: Rajesh Misra for PublicDomainPictures
Rajasthan is not any other destination. It has a vibe and charm on its own. Founded in the 18th century, Mandwa was initially a home to rich Rajasthani merchants. In the present days, there are grand havelis and mansions that act as an example of their lifestyles. These havelis exude old-world charm and acts as a magnet for several history aficionados.

Best Experiences:

Devour local Rajasthani cuisine.
Soak in the beauty of grand Havelis.
Witness and explore the Harlalka Well.
Shop in the nearby local markets.

Best Time To Visit: October to March

How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is at Jaipur Airport at a distance of 180 km.
By Road: The village is well connected to the major cities by road and one can drive or take the local buses.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Dundlod Mukundgarh, which is 17 km away.

Where To Stay: Hotel Heritage, Mandawa Kothi, Desert Resort, and Castle Mandawa.

Further Read: Top 17 Religious Places In India: Redefining Spirituality For Gen Y

India is a treasure trove of over 6 lakh villages. What we have curated here is a small footprint on the rural eco – traveler’s map. We hope that you will enjoy discovering the myriad of the most beautiful villages in India with their rich biodiversity and cultures. We would love to hear about the villages you have visited so shout out – we’re all ears! And book a trip soon to one of these villages on your trip to India!

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Most Beautiful Villages In India

Which is the prettiest village in India?

It is difficult to name only one beautiful village in India. One can find many examples of beautiful villages like Khonoma (Nagaland), Malana (Himachal Pradesh), Bir Billing (Himachal Pradesh), Gokarna Village (Karnataka), and Mawlynnong.

Which is the oldest village in India?

Malana in Himachal Pradesh is said to be one of the oldest and most beautiful villages in India. It is also one of those offbeat destinations that you must visit on your trip to Himachal Pradesh.

What is the smallest village in India?

Ha is the smallest tribal village located in the Kurung Kumey district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area.

Which is the second largest village in India?

Situated in Kohima, Bara Basti is the second-largest village not only in India but also in the whole of Asia. It is also one of the most visited villages in Asia.