30 Unexplored Places In India You Need To Visit In 2025

India is replete with a plethora of destinations that are explored by many. No matter whether you go east, west, north, or south, you will find numerous places that are still untouched by commercialization. Gurez Valley, Phugtal, Damro, Jawai, and Kila Raipur are some of the unexplored places in India that you must add to your itinerary on your next vacation. Over-shadowed and overt, these places will leave you stumped with their untouched beauty.

Table Of Content

30 Best Unexplored Places In India- A Complete List

Here is a list of the top 30 unique places to visit in India, with surprises for everybody to indulge in and have a great time exploring the hidden gems.

• Gurez Valley, Kashmir
• Phugtal Gompa, Jammu & Kashmir
• Chopta, Uttarakhand
• Kanatal, Uttarakhand
• Damro, Arunachal Pradesh
• Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
• Sandakphu, Darjeeling
• Kila Raipur, Punjab
• Jawai, Rajasthan
• Mohammadpur Umri, Uttar Pradesh
• Amadubi, Jharkhand
• Mainpat, Chhattisgarh
• Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
• Parule and Bhogwe, Maharashtra
• Velas, Maharashtra
• Halebidu, Karnataka
• Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Karnataka
• Moodbidri, Karnataka
• Chembra Lake, Western Ghats
• Urakam, Kerala
• Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
• Mawsynram, Meghalaya
• Majuli, Assam
• Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
• Champaner, Gujarat
• Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh
• Hemis, Leh
• Patan, Gujarat
• Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
• Lunglei, Mizoram

1. Gurez Valley, Kashmir

Surreal landscapes, cool air, breathtaking backdrops, and the sound of gushing rivers are commonplace in Gurez Valley. The regular sight of shepherds and fields feels like a scene out of Bambi. Its strategic location right below the ‘Line of Control’ makes the valley one of the most protected lands in India. And yes, with continuous vigilance and constant patrolling, it is very convenient to go there.

• Nearest Aiport: Srinagar International airport
• Attractions In Gurez Valley: Wular Lake, Razdan Pass, Peer Baba Shrine
• Best Time To Visit: May To September

Also Read: Places To Visit In Kashmir

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2. Phugtal Gompa, Jammu & Kashmir

Possibly the remotest monastery in Asia, Phugtal Gompa is a striking attraction set in the mountain cave in Zanskar. As you climb up the tall mountains, you see the spectacular views of the Tsarap River, making it one of the best unexplored places in North India. There is no road which leads to this house of peace. You need to trek for a day or two to reach this unseen place.

• Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
• Attractions In Phugtal Gompa: Drang Dung Glacier, Nun-Kun Kasif
• Best Time To Visit: June To September

3. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Chopta is undoubtedly the prettiest spot of all the offbeat places in India. Enjoy the spell-binding beauty of the Himalayas, snow-capped mountains, and thick forest trails. The sleepy town will enchant you with its mystical meadows, towering trees, snowy backdrops and warm people.

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
• Attractions In Chopta: Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, Kartik Swami Temple
• Best Time To Visit: March To May

Related Post: Places To Visit In Chopta

4. Kanatal, Uttarakhand

Just over 80 km away from Dehradun, Kanatal is a pretty little:  hamlet for the romantics. One of the the most unexplored places in India, Kanatal is full of romance with stunning views, and warm, hospitable hotels. Also, Kanatal has special terrace stays, perfect for couples. Indulge in many things to do in Kanatal for a serene vacation with your love.

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
• Attractions In Kanatal: Surkanda Devi Temple, Tehri Dam
• Best Time To Visit: April To June

5. Damro, Arunachal Pradesh

Damro is the base to the longest hanging bridge (1,000 feet) in Arunachal Pradesh. Definitely a hidden route to heaven, Damro charms with thatched bamboo houses, swaying suspended bridges, and the laid-back lifestyle of the locals. Among the list of unexplored places in India, it is a rural sort of getaway for exhausted city dwellers. The sights of harvested crops, not-so-wild bison, vast expanse of meadows and grasslands are quite welcoming.

• Nearest Airport: Raja Bhoj Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Damro: Damro Labokellie Tea Garden
• Best Time To Visit: October To April

Related Post: Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

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6. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

The village honoured as ‘The Cleanest Village in Asia’ by international bodies is quite unknown in the country. The picturesque village of Mawlynnong is the epitome of harmony and cleanliness, which makes it one of the worthy unexplored places in India. Well-maintained roads, polished streets, spotless houses, manicured front yards and cobbled sidewalks give an impression of high-end cities. Their organized pits for organic and inorganic wastes, maintained public utilities and scattered bamboo dustbins give a unique charm to this place.

• Nearest Airport: Umroi Airport (SHL), Shillong
• Attractions To Visit In Mawlynnong: Living Root Bridge, Balancing Rock
• Best Time To Visit: March To June

7. Sandakphu, Darjeeling

The term ‘Sandakphu’ means height of the poison plants. It is named so because of a specifically poisonous wolfsbane plant which grows naturally near the peak. Sandakphu, one of the most dangerous offbeat places in India, is the highest peak in Darjeeling with a staggering altitude of 3,336 meters. Sandakphu Trek is a heaven and paradise for nature lover and trekkers as they enjoy the panoramic views with serene environment.

• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
• Attractions To Visit In Sandakphu: Phalut, Tumling, Meghma
• Best Time To Visit: April To May and October – December

Related Post: Things To Do In Darjeeling

8. Kila Raipur, Punjab

Kila Raipur — the base to the Rural Olympics, is known not just for its engaging games, but for its vibrant culture and people. The festivities and pomp, including engaging dance performances and traditional plays, will take you through an unforgettable trip. The sports destination is believed to be a place where you can befriend valiant and strong people. The energy of the place is other-worldly which makes it one of the best unexplored places in India. Mostly, the Rural Olympics take place during the month of February.

• Nearest Airport: Ludhiana Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Kila Raipur: NA
• Best Time To Visit: February

9. Jawai, Rajasthan

Not known to many, Jawai Leopard Camp is the newest and the coolest addition to leopard spotting destinations in India. Luxurious tents, rustic lamps and authentic Rajasthani cuisine ensure that the experience is exotic as well as adventurous. And it’s not just the feline, the place is abuzz with flamingos, geese, cranes, and other migratory birds. If you are lucky, you may find a fair share of sloth bears, Indian wolves, and antelopes. For history buffs, this place serves as one of the unknown historical places in India to explore.

• Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Jawai: Kambeshwar Mahadev Temple, Abhinav Mahavir Dham, Kumbhalgarh
• Best Time To Visit: Early September-Mid May

Related Post: Villages In Rajasthan

10. Mohammadpur Umri, Uttar Pradesh

There is a very interesting twinning tale associated with this place – Mohammadpur Urmi. Out of a population of 900, the place has 65 pairs of twins, which is considered to be way high in ratio of normal standards. And it’s not just humans, cows give birth to twin calves, and even hens lay eggs with two yolks! Mohammadpur Urmi’s attraction is not restricted to this weird phenomenon. Its simple beauty is perfect for having a mini-vacation to understand the interesting traditions and cultures of one of the offbeat places to visit in Allahabad.

• Nearest Airport: Allahabad Airport or Bamrauli Air Force Base
• Attractions To Visit In Mohammadpur Urmi: Prayagraj
• Best Time To Visit: NA

11. Amadubi, Jharkhand

Amadubi is a village known for its skilled chitrakars and Paitkar paintings. Since centuries, Amadubi is home to many artists and pictorial storytellers. With rustic huts, local diners saturated with aroma of authentic rice delicacies, colorful festivities during festivals like Tusu Parab and Dansai, and traditional dances at various agricultural festivals, the village has much to offer. Some of the best grabs of the village are Dokra craft, Mithila sarees, region’s rich art, and Paitkar paintings which you should take home from the best artist.

• Nearest Airport: Deoghar Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Amadubi: Jayanti Sarovar, Hudco Lake
• Best Time To Visit: September To Mid-March

Related Post: Things To Do In Jaharkhand

12. Mainpat, Chhattisgarh

You may not have heard of a large Tibetan settlement in India except Dharamshala, but the gomoas (temples) of Mainpat are truly heavenly and unexplored. One of the most beautiful of all the unseen places in India, Mainpat is home to Thakpo Shedupling Monastery built in 1970. It is an important attraction here. There are several old thangkas, and wall murals that decorate the interiors of this monastery. If you are a cholesterol or high blood pressure patient, do visit the farms of tau, commonly known as buckwheat as it is said to possess healing properties.

• Nearest Aiport: Birsa Munda Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Mainpat: Parpatiya Sunset Point, Mercury Falls
• Best Time To Visit: October To March

13. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh

Lepakshi, a small town in Andhra Pradesh, is a site dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra – the fiery incarnation of Lord Shiva. There are various colorful frescos painted on the walls and ceilings of buildings and temples from Ramayana and Mahabharata. However, the best part of the place is the hanging pillar in the main Lepakshi Temple. There is nothing holding the pillar to the ground, but it is still standing.

• Nearest Airport: Bangalore International Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Lepakshi: Veerabhadra Temple, Jatayu Theme Park
• Best Time To Visit: November To March

Related Post: Lepakshi Temple

14. Parule And Bhogwe, Maharashtra

Parule offers a farm stay experience and a taste of authentic local cuisine. Activities like cow milking, fishing, and plantation walking will keep you engaged. The stunning sunsets and sunrises will take your breath away. Bhogwe, on the other hand, boasts of architectural wonders and a mystical charm. The village has rustic temples and old cottages, where you can have a laid-back vacation while munching cashews, boat-riding, or just lazing around on the coast. These are the top Maharashtra beaches, which are unexplored and less crowded and must be on top of your itinerary.

• Nearest airport: Sindhudurg Chipi Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Parule And Bhogwe: Nivti Beach, Devbagh Beach, Golden Rock
• Best Time To Visit:  October-November

15. Velas, Maharashtra

The people of this quaint village have taken up a cause – they aggressively protect and nurture the several common and endangered species of turtles. Here, you get to watch the unfurling of life in front of your eyes right from when these little friends hatch out of their shells. Don’t miss the annual turtle festival, which is a one-of-its-kind mesmerizing event, of the festival.

• Nearest Airport: Keshod Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Velas: Velas Beach, Bankot Fort, Hariheshwar Beach
• Best Time To Visit: Mid-March To Mid-April

Related Post: Velas Turtle Festival

16. Halebidu, Karnataka

One of the top unexplored places in south India, Halebidu, is dotted with several forgotten but charming shrines and temples. A dream destination for historians and archaeologists, the place encompasses peace and a sense of complacency alien to the modern world. Once a regal capital to kings, Halebidu will make you forget all the other temples.

• Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Halebidu: Basadi Halli, Kedareshwar Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple
• Best Time To Visit: October To February

17. Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Karnataka

You may have heard of the famous ruins of Hampi, but have you heard of an exquisitely clean and well-maintained bear reserve known as Daroji Bear Sanctuary? It is home to more than 120 sloth bears, amongst other equally feral animals. If lucky, you might watch the scene of the vast gorge from the watch tower several feet above. Watch them gorging on food from a relatively closer spot at 2 pm every day, when the authorities provide these mammoths with food and water.

• Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport
• Attractions To Visit Near Daroji Bear Sanctuary: Kamalapura, Mahanavami Dibba
• Best Time To Visit: October To February

Related Post: Hampi

18. Moodbidri, Karnataka

Moodbidri is a Jains’ paradise and a historians’ dream destination. Several Jain shrines (some of them centuries old) depicting the Digambara culture add character to the place. The most popular one is the Thousand Pillared Jain Temple, which is said to be over 600 years old. The architecture has Nepalese, Hoysala, and Oriental influences.

• Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Moodbidri: Kanchibail Waterfalls, Gomateshwara Statue, Durga Waterfalls
• Best Time To Visit: September To March

19. Chembra Lake, Western Ghats

In the heights of the Wayanad range in the Western Ghats, there is a lake that is believed to have never desiccated. Not drought, not high temperature; nothing has ever been able to dry even the tiniest bit of this lake. But the most catchy thing about Chemra Lake is its shape—a heart. Yes, it is the only natural lake in India in the shape of a heart.

• Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Chemra Lake: Karapuzzha Dam, Lakkidi View Point
• Best Time To Visit: September To March

Related Post: Chembra Peak Ttek

20. Urakam, Kerala

Majestic beauty, entrancing culture, skilled artisans, vibrant festivals, and delicious food – Urakam, one of the unexplored and best places to visit in Thrissur, India, has it all! Away from the busy town life, come here to relax, rejoice, and learn pottery from the original pottery masters.

• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
• Attractions To Visit In Urakam: Peruvanam Mahadeva Temple, Ammathiruvadi Temple
• Best Time To Visit: May
  

21. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Adorning the northeast region, Ziro is one of the best attractions of Arunachal Pradesh, which is known to be home to a unique tribal group. Ziro Valley is an ideal location for peace seekers who are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle. The Apatani tribe resides here, and pine hills and rice fields make this place famous. The weather here is very welcoming and remains pleasant throughout the year.

• Nearest Airport: Ziro Airport
• Attractions In Ziro: Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Dolo Mando, Tarin Fish Farm
• Best Time To Visit: May

Related Post: Ziro Valley

22. Mawsynram, Meghalaya

Famous for being the wettest place in the world, Mawsynram is one of the most mesmerizing villages amidst nature’s beautiful surroundings. The ‘Maw’ in Mawsynram is derived from the Khasi word which means ‘stone’. With the drizzling rain and the lush green landscapes, this place is ideal for an escape from daily life.  This village is also famous for the gigantic formations of the stalagmite which resembles the shape of ‘Shivling’.

• Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport or Umroi Airport
• Attractions in Mawsynram: Mawsmai Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunjee, Mawlyngbna, Mawsmai Caves
• Best Time To Visit: May

23. Majuli, Assam

Majuli is a beautiful and lush-green island located over the Brahmaputra River, just 20 km from Jorhat city. Spread across an area of 1250 sq. kms, Majuli is considered one of the world’s largest river islands, a fascinating thing to witness for tourists. While one of the best places to visit in Assam, this island is home to the tribals, and one can experience and learn the unique culture this place boasts. Sir back and relax at the Majuli Island from the urban hustle and experience the unparraled natural beauty.

• Nearest Airport: Jorhat Airport or Rowriah Airport
• Attractions In Majuli: Kamalabari Satra, Dakhinpat Satra, Auniati Satra, Garmur
• Best Time To Visit: April-May

Related Post: Tourist Places In Assam

24. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

This beautiful town in Arunachal Pradesh is the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. Resting at a height of 3048m, Tawang is home to one of the most beautiful and majestic monasteries. The name of this town is pronounced as Dawang, which is blessed with some of the most beautiful views that will offer a sense of relaxation. Witness the main highlight of Tawang Monastery, which is very important and sacred for Buddhists. It is one of the wonderful unexplored tourist places in India.

• Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport
• Attractions In Tawang: Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake, Tawang War Memorial, Tawang Monastery
• Best Time To Visit: June- August

25. Champaner, Gujarat

Located in Gujarat, Champaner is one of the world heritage sites declared by UNESCO. It holds history and offers an appealing view. The town rests over the Pavagadh hills, which are believed to be a chunk of the Himalayas that Lord Hanuman carried over during the Ramayan. Holding quite an offbeat vibe, Champaner is a delight for people who want to learn about history.

• Nearest Airport: Vadodara Airport
• Attractions In Champaner: Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
• Best Time To Visit: October-February

Related Post: Places To Visit In Pavagadh

26. Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh

Often called the “gateway of Rayalaseema,” this town is one of the essential places that still holds its history. Located in Andhra Pradesh, this town has the remains of the Gopal Raju palace, the last Hindu King. Witness the ruins of the Kurnool Palace which reflect the architecture of the Vijaynagar Empire, along with preserved Persian and Arabic inscriptions. There is also a summer palace built during the 16th century.

• Nearest Airport: Hyderabad (HYD) Airport or Kurnool airport
• Attractions In Kurnool: Yaganti, Belum Caves, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Venugopalaswamy Temple
• Best Time To Visit: October To March

27. Hemis, Leh

This is a beautiful village located in the Leh district and surrounded by surreal landscapes which are worth exploring. The village is particularly known for the beautiful and famous Hemis Monastery which is hosted every year in July. Alongside that, this place is also home to a wide array of langurs, wolves, red foxes, deer, and marmots. Get a glimpse of the snow leopard only at Hemis National Park. It is one of the least visited places in India.

• Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
• Attractions In Hemis: Stakna Gompa, Shang Gompa, Gotsang Gompa
• Best Time To Visit: April To June

Related Post: Hemis National Park

28. Patan, Gujarat

Patan is a small town in Gujarat which has become one of the offbeat places to visit in India which is attracting people from all around in India. This place is a hidden treasure which has preserved some of the architectural marvels and ancient temples which date back to the medieval period. This has been the state’s capital for almost 650 years during the medieval period. Alongside the temples, this town has Dargah and Jain temples to explore.

• Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
• Attractions In Patan: Rani ki Vav, Sahastralinga Talav, Patola Saree making unit
• Best Time To Visit: October To April

29. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Still unknown to many, Mandu is a beautiful place in Madhya Pradesh and offers the epitome of beauty of architecture. This city is the validatory proof of the love between Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. Mandu is also famous for being the home to the oldest erected monument of India. The remnants of this ancient city are preserved to date and offer visitors a rich history to discover. There are beautiful palaces to visit in Mandu and glimpse the royal heritage. This place belongs to the category of least visited places in India.

• Nearest Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport
• Attractions In Mandu: Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Jami Masjid, Baz Bahadur’s Palace
• Best Time To Visit: October To March

Related Post: Things To Do In Mandu

30. Lunglei, Mizoram

The literal meaning of this place is “the bridge of rock”, which is admired for its scenic beauty and natural landscapes. This is an ideal destination for people who want to explore the finest views of nature. Known to be one of the unexplored places in India, there are activities to do like Trekking, bird watching and adventure sports which tourists usually enjoy. Located at the southern part of Mizoram, the name of this place is derived from the bridge-like rock which is located here.

• Nearest Airport: Lengpui Airport
• Attractions In Lunglei: Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary
• Best Time To Visit: October To June

You May Also Like To Read: Places To Visit In Mizoram

Got enough fodder to chalk out your next trip? That’s exactly what we aimed at. Do let us know which one of these offbeat places is on your mind! And while you plan your trip to India, make sure you don’t miss out on these unexplored places in India, which have something special for every kinda traveller. 

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Cover Image Credit: Byomakesh07 for Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions About Unexplored Places In India

What is the most mysterious place in India?

Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan, Shaniwar Wada, Kongka La Pass, Ladakh, Lake of Skeletons, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, Magnetic Hill, Leh, Ladakh, Jatinga, Assam, Village of Twins, Kerala, Kuldhara Village, Rajasthan, etc are some of the most mysterious places in India.

What is the secret city in India?

Auroville is an experimental township and a secret city in India. This is known as the “The City the Earth Needs”, which aims to achieve human unity.

Which is the least visited place in India?

Some of the least visited places in India include Ziro Valley, Padum, and Ha. but there are other lesser-known places that you can explore in India.

What are some of the best and unique places to visit in India?

Some of the most unexplored places in India include: Ponmudi Hills in Kerala, Nighoj in Maharashtra, Sandakphu in West Bengal and Majuli in Assam.

Which place is known as the heaven of India?

Kashmir is famously referred to as paradise on earth. Visit this stunning place with your loved ones and muster some unforgettable memories.

Which is the most peaceful place in India?

Some of the most peaceful places in India include Gulmarg in J&K, Nubra Valley in Leh, McLeodganj and more.

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