India is a mixture of multi-cultural diversity. It is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a rich heritage and natural beauty, the country is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. As you explore the vast country, you are welcomed by diverse nuances of cuisines, faiths, arts, crafts, music, nature, lands, tribes, history, and adventure sports. Read here to know three lesser-known tourist destinations in India.
India is a colourful country where tradition and modernity meet side by side. The world’s seventh-largest nation by area and the second-largest in terms of population, India boasts a rich heritage that’s the result of centuries of different cultures and religions leaving their mark.
1. Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir
Patnitop is one of the most famous hilltop tourist destinations of J&K located at an altitude of 2024 m above sea level in the Udhampur district. Situated in the Shivalik belt of the mighty Himalayas, Patnitop comprises some meadows festooned with the deep forests of deodar and pine trees.
Earlier times, the place was named Patan Da Talab (Pond of the Princess) and it is said that the British probably could not get the correct name in revenue records and thus named it Patnitop. In olden times a pond existed in the meadows and the king’s princess often used to have her bath there. Part of the pond still exists near the youth hostel.
People visiting Patnitop can enjoy it as the place has a lot to offer including sightseeing tours, forests, and temples. The other activities include horse rides and short treks into the surrounding hills. The natural beauty of Patnitop makes it the best tourist destination in India.
The best place to visit in Patnitop is Skyview Patnitop. For those who seek solace in nature and want to experience adventure backed with world-class hospitality and other amenities, Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean is an apt place to visit. The major attraction of this location is that the place has the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance and has one of the longest zig-zag ziplines in Asia. Besides the magic carpet, tube sledge, and hiking trails. For food lovers, the scenic destination offers several culinary delights in its restaurants and cafes. It has emerged as one of the best destinations for adventure activities in India.
The place remains open throughout the year. However, July and August are the hottest months with an average of 30°C, whereas December and January are often coldest, averaging -2°C. The moderate weather and beautiful landscapes make it the best place to visit in north India.
2. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Chopta is a small settlement and valley that is located in Uttarakhand, which is one of the top tourist destinations in India because it offers spell-binding beauty of the Himalayas, snow-capped mountains, and thick forest trails.
This untouched natural destination is situated on the lap of the Himalayas, offers vistas of the imposing Himalayan range including Trishul, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. It is located at an elevation of 2,680 metres (8,790 ft) above sea level.
The valley is surrounded by the dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. This place is rich in flora and fauna include rare species of birds and musk deer. Many Indian travellers have named this place as ‘Mini Switzerland’ of India.
3. Damro, Arunachal Pradesh
The village of Damro is surrounded by the beautiful states of Assam and Myanmar in Arunachal Pradesh in North East. The place has abundant natural resources. This village in the northeast is the base of the longest hanging bridge (1,000 feet). It is a rural sort of a getaway for exhausting city life. The major attractions of this place are sights of harvested crops, not-so-wild bison, a vast expanse of meadows and grasslands making it one of the best tourist destinations in India.
Damro has a small population of just under 500 living in 78 houses. The place is known for its simple way of living. While you are in Damro, you can take a hike up to the Damro bridge or trek down the famous routes at Pasighat and Yingkiong. The only thing that you should never miss is to try your hand at fishing with the locals. During your visit, we recommend you not to miss the local delicacies of smoked pork, raja chilli chutney, and apong (rice beer).
