25 Lesser Known Wonders Of Incredible India

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25 Lesser Known Wonders Of Incredible India

What you expect: Reach your holiday place, soak up the serenity and discover something unique.

What really happens: Finally manage to get there, get hurled into an overcrowded place, do the ‘been there, done that’.

Helping you unravel some unconventional travel options, we have listed out the lesser known but fascinating places in India. While some are easy, others might require work. Each though, makes for a riveting getaway.

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1) The submerging and emerging wonder

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Painting a rather unique and dreamy picture, the birth of the Rosary Church, Shettihalli, dates back to the 1860s and rests on the banks of Hemavathi River near Hassan. However, do not expect to catch a full glimpse of it every time you are here. The fascinating structure built by French Missioners, is said to submerge during the rains and emerge again once the water has receded. Echoing the splendour of Gothic architecture, it is only left with its skeleton today.

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The destiny of the church changed when the government decided to build Gorur Dam that floods the Hemavathi Reservoir. As per the scheme, the villagers were relocated and the revered building was left behind. Standing the test of time and weathering the waters, it is evocative.

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2) Earliest trace of human life on the Indian subcontinent were found here

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If you are the sort who fancies history, then this is for you. The Cave Paintings at Bhimbetka is where you can get a glimpse of the earliest trace of human life on the Indian subcontinent. They depict animals, cultures, festivals and rituals of their time.

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What is remarkable is that you can catch sight of art traced back epochs ago from the Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Chalcolithic periods along with Medieval Age. And they were actually paintings and not etchings being carved into stone. It is a mystery how most of the paint has remained intact throughout centuries. Discovered in 1957, there are around 15 caves that are open for public viewing.

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3) Untouched cutting-edge canyons that make you dizzy as you look down
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Be one of the first few to witness the marvels of nature. Among the exotic places in India that have not been infringed upon, the Laitlum Canyons in the outskirts of Shillong, Meghalaya make for a stunning sight.

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Very few are aware of it and you would have to ask around to get here. Unlike earlier when there were no roads leading to this place, now is a different story. Get mesmerised by the vast expanse of tall flush green grass swaying to the chilly breeze and feel the rush of blood through your veins as you look down upon cutting edges of the mountains thus making them appear as canyons. Be prepped up with snacks and water as there is just one shop in the vicinity. When finally at the spot, savour the serene atmosphere and take in the sights of green hills, valleys and little villages afar that stretch towards the land of Bangladesh.

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4) A remote hamlet where sands seem to roll out into eternity

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Most of us are aware of Rajasthan and its several gems like Jaipur and Udaipur. But how many of us actually know about the Khimsar Dunes Village, which embodies the very desert nature of the state. It resides about 15 minutes from the Khimsar Fort.

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Only accessible by jeep, camel or horseback, this remote hamlet is where the sands seem to roll out into eternity. Resonating the beauty of the Thar Desert, you might come across a mini-lake that springs out of nowhere. But be warned, it might only be a mirage!

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5) A temple where a vegetarian crocodile resides

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Ever heard of vegetarian crocodiles? The reptile in question goes by the name of Babiya and is a guardian of the Ananthapura Lake Temple. She is said to be around 150 years old.

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This place of worship can only be reached through a bridge and dates back to the 9th century. It is located right in the middle of the lake in the Kasargod District of Kerala. This is sacred place is said to be the natural abode of Ananthapadmanabha, the deity of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram.

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6) The stunning falls in the tiny hamlet of Thoseghar
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Instead of heading to good old Lonavala and Khandala to catch sight of waterfalls, you can escape to Thoseghar Falls. It is located in the tiny hamlet of Thoseghar, 20 km from Satara City. When here, you can witness a series of plunging cascades. Adding to the charm of the place is the tranquil atmosphere that abounds the forested hilly environs. On the way to the place, you also come across multiple windmills.

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However, on a cautionary note do not get too eager and venture too close to the falls or tread risky paths during heavy rains. Remember safety always comes first. There is also a picnic area that has been constructed to get a good view of the cascade.

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7) See nothing but a sea of flowers

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For stretches, set your sights on nothing but a sea of blossoms.The Kaas Plateau located in Maharashtra, around 22 km from Satara city, there are around 850 different species of flowers here.

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The place specially comes alive during the months of August and September. If you observe closely, you can spot several tiny wild flowers.




8) The cleanest village in Asia

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8) The cleanest village in Asia

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If you want to learn a thing or two about cleanliness and explore great sights along the way too, pay a visit Mawlynnong Village. It is touted as the “Cleanest village in Asia”. Tucked away in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, it is also called ‘God’s Own Garden’. The community over here has made an honest attempt to maintain the pristine ambience.

Monsoons cast a magic spell here as little cascades meander into the streams and the entire region is painted green. Apart from basking in the natural beauty, other delights from here include a visit to the famed Living Root Bridge and a chance to witness a balancing rock.

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9) The tallest plunge waterfall in India

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To witness what is said to be the tallest waterfall plunge of India, witness the Nohkalikai Falls that cascades from a height of 1115 feet (340 metres). Located near Cherrapunji, a 3 hour-drive from Shillong and a fee of 10 rupees will take you here. Sometimes emerging from mist and a pack of clouds, the falls flanked by greenery, make for a surreal sight.

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There is a morbid legend attached to this place. It is believed that a woman named KaLikai had remarried. Her husband however was jealous of his wife’s daughter from her first marriage. It so happens that he killed her daughter and cooked her flesh for a meal. The wife comes looking for her but the husband feigned ignorance and suggested eating something. After eating she found her daughter’s finger in the betel-nut basket. In a state of anguish, she jumped off the cliff. The fall is hence called “Fall of KaLikai” aka Nohkalikai.

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10) The best of Goa, sans the chaos

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Get to experience the sun, sand and sea of Goa, sans the madness and chaos. Ashvem Beach, located in North Goa, is a clean and peaceful retreat.

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The best part is that even during peak season, it does not get too overcrowded and the prices of the accommodations remain lesser than its counterparts. If you are keen on surfing, you can even burrow surfboards on this beach or join a yoga class that is available close by.

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11) Find the reminiscences of Ahom Dynasty over here

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A 12 hour-drive from Guwahati, Sibsagar is where you can marvel at the reminiscences of the Ahom Dynasty. Delve into the history of Assam as you tour Rang Ghar and Kareng Ghar.

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The royal palace of Kareng Ghar is a must-see for it is one of the most outstanding examples of Ahom architecture. The two-storied building of Rang Ghar was a sports-pavilion where the kings and nobles watched games like buffalo fights and other sports.

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12) ‘Second coldest inhabited place in the world’
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Do you want to know what ‘the second coldest inhabited place in the world’ feels and looks like? Drass is the answer to that question and the board welcoming travellers to Drass, states just that. It is also known as ‘The Gateway to Ladakh’. The winsome valley is situated in the Kargil District of Jammu and Kashmir and begins from the base of the Zoji La Pass.

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No easy feat, the temperature here can dip as low as minus 60 degrees Celsius, covering the region with a blanket of snow. However, during the balmy months of spring and summer, the entire place comes alive with flush greens and vibrant flowers.

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13) A pristine beach that has to be visited before commercialization takes over


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A hidden treasure of Maharashtra, we suggest that you visit Ganapatipule Beach before commercialization takes over. The ride on the way too is a delightful one. Apart from its beauty, the highlight here is the Ganapati temple located on the shore.

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When at this sandy treat, treat your eyes to 6 km of unbridled clean sand flanked by greens of the cliff on one side and blues of the Arabian Sea on the other. Some hotels have opened up for accommodation. Those looking for a bit of entertainment can enjoy camel rides as well as water sports.

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14) The longest drive-in beach in Asia
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The longest drive-in beach in Asia, Muzhappilangad Beach in Kannur is where you can surrender to unique pleasures. Drive or bike along the 4 km pristine stretch of sandy land. The sight of blue waves hitting the black rocks and clusters of green trees on the other side makes for an appealing visual experience.

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The sunset too brings in its own charm. Around 7 km from Thalassery railway station, you can try your hand at the various adventure and water sports available here. Also, dig into the famous Malabar cuisine that is served in all the eateries in the vicinity.

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15) The mystic monastery that lies on the edge of steep mountains
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Seamlessly blending in with its magnificent surroundings, the Phuktal Monastery is built on the edge of the steep mountains in Zanskar Valley and is by far the most spectacularly situated Gompa. Built in the 12th century, around 70 monks reside at this place.

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The peaceful abode is particularly known for the Cave above it. The monastery claims to owe its illustrious legacy of scholars and teachers to this cave. Also, there is a mystical hollow in the rock inside the cave from which water never reduces to spill from it. It is said to have healing powers.

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16) A whole new world in the darkness of this cave discovered
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People are aware of the thrills that the rocky landscape of Anthargange, (at a height of 1226m (4021ft.) in Kolar district brings along when it comes to trekking. But few know about the spelunking options. And by that we mean the experience of caving in this fascinating setting.

This involves getting in and searching your way out, exploring the routes, managing to squeeze your way into lean fissures and discovering a whole new world in the darkness of this abyss.

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17) A hidden village where divine beauty lures you

People from a certain circle might come here for some specific reasons, but we recommend this place purely for its beauty and breath-taking sights. Located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Malana lies at a height of 3029 m (9,938 ft). Breathe in the crisp mountain air and take in the divinity of the green sights.

There is a village here that is secluded and considered as the oldest democracy in the world. You can also opt for a Manala Village trek to further explore the enigmas of this place.

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18) A lesser known island which showcases the remains of Portuguese era
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One of the islands that ring the famous Devbagh Island, Anjudeep lends a unique appeal. It was titled after Anji Devi goddess who is worshipped here. Apart from soaking in the calm environs, you can view the many remains of the Portuguese era.

It is believed that this place was used as a haven by the Christians and Hindus of the mainland when the coastal kingdoms of Bednore and Soonda got invaded by Tipu Sultan.

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19) A paradise for backpackers, nature lovers and trekkers

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A paradise for backpackers, nature lovers and trekkers alike, Tosh is a village that lies in the enchanted Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh situated at a height of 7874 ft above sea-level. To enter the village, one has to walk over a wooden bridge. This is a place where you can lap up the pleasant weather along with picturesque views of the valley and unblemished hills.

It lies on a slope of a mountain overlooking a river and a waterfall. The added advantage of this locale is the accommodations that come at a cheap and reasonable price. There are several food joints, pizza corner, tea stalls and restaurants here. Psychedelic and trance parties too are held deep in the woods.

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20) Get a glimpse of different centuries at this UNESCO Heritage site

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Get transported into a historic era as you amble through the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park in Panchmahal district, Gujarat. A UNESCO heritage site, it is studded with forts and bastions that begin at the hills of Pavagadh, and lengthen into the city of Champaner.

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Get a glimpse of different centuries as you get to see the remains of the state’s capital in the 16th century along with structures and step-wells dating back to the 8th - 14th century.

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21) Visit an enchanting artist’s village

If you want to be inspired by art, head to Andretta in Himachal Pradesh. An artists’ colony, this was established in the 1920s, when Norah Richards, an Irish theatre artiste and environmentalist shifted to this spellbinding region from Lahore.

And when you look around the green and pristine landscape along the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas that serves as the background, it forms the perfect backdrop for a captivating painting. The attractions here include Andretta Pottery and Craft Society, Norah Richard’s House, Norah Richard’s Centre for the Arts and Sir Sobha Singh Art Gallery.

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22) Get a whiff of lost grandeur as you come to this town
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Get a whiff of lost grandeur as you pay a visit to Orchha Town located in Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh. Banked beside the Betwa River, it stands on a huge palace-fort. Inside the boundary are structures belonging to different eras.

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The most noted ones are Jahangir Mahal, reflecting the splendour of Mughul architecture, Chaturbhuj Temple belonging to the 9th century and Ram Raja Temple that is simple yet stunning.

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23) A valley that echoes the magical beauty of Kashmir
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Echoing the magical beauty of Kashmir, Gurez Valley lies near Srinagar in northern part of the state. Closed till 2007 for security reasons, the place has recently opened up. The visual appeal of this place lies in its snow-capped mountains, rare flora and fauna. The animals that you could catch sight are the Himalayan brown bear and the snow leopard.

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You can get to Gurez Valley from Bandipura on road via your own vehicle, provided you have proper know-how of this mountainous drive. As an alternative, a shared taxi should suffice. Do note that Dawar, the central township remains buried in snow for half a year and is cut off from the outside world.

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24) Unravel unknown mountain villages and medieval monasteries
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Not as popular as Spiti and Ladakh, Lahaul is more lush and developed. On a bus journey from Leh to Manali, take a stop at its capital Keylong.

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Take in the sights of rugged and untouched landscapes. Set off on an adventure as you discover some unfamiliar mountain villages and medieval monasteries. In this dream-like place, you also get to witness fascinating Buddhist art and culture.

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25) A city known for its collection of vintage cars

A rather versatile city in Gujrat, Gondal makes for an interesting place to visit. Do not be surprised if you spot Vintage Ford and Buick taxis on your way from Rajkot to this place.

The ruling family of Gondal were known to be huge car enthusiasts and their vast collection of automobiles is on display in the museum located in the palace premises. There is even a replica of the Big Ben, below which some of the mouth-watering bhajiyas are available but only at a certain time of the day. Another place worth visiting here is the seventeenth century Darbargadh that allegedly costs Nine Lakhs Rupees, earning the label ‘Navlakha Palace’.

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