Tag archives for Spiti Valley
The beautiful Himalayan range can be beautifully described in 3 words: temples, high mountain peaks, and lush greenery. Destinations like Darjeeling, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and Sikkim are ideal for adventurous newlyweds looking to travel someplace different for their honeymoon. Include the monasteries and hidden villages on your itinerary to get a personal feel of the Himalayan culture, customs and traditions.
In the following lines we’ve detailed some of the best travel destinations for couples in the Himalayas. Enjoy a trip of a lifetime and have a time of your life exploring places very few have had the chance to see before.
Delhi’s magical kingdom
India’s Delhi is a magical destination for a honeymoon. It might take you a day or two to get used to the sounds, smells and alluring colors. But it will all be worth it. Everything’s possible in Delhi. Old Delhi has a old-fashioned vibe couples will fall in love with. Everywhere you look there are jewelers trying to sell you things, spices and tea varieties? In the New Delhi area, the future unfolds. Gurgaon almost seems like a spatial city packed with endless skyscrapers and glitzy malls.
Spiti Valley
India’s most secluded regions; Spiti Valley is a territory of pure mysticism. The rugged terrain, extreme weather conditions, and vast remoteness make it stand out. There are only a few villages spread here and there, so you shouldn’t expect much. The best thing that you can do is embrace the silence. Spiti is an excellent trekking spot. Pin-Bhaba, Pin-Parvati, and Parang-La are three of the most well-known routes. The scenic views will take your breath away.
For a more old-fashioned, rustic experience and captivating views, there are excellent lodging places nearby. Explore “Komic”, “Dhankar” and “Demul” villages, and choose the best that matches your demands. The locals are extremely welcoming people. Spiti Valley is a honeymoon destination that invites tourists to connect the region’s customs and traditions; meditate and explore the Buddhist culture.
Tirthan Valley
There’s a small village hidden in the Himalayas known as Tirthan Valley. It almost feels like coming out of a fairytale. Adventurous holiday seekers and nature lovers will most likely fall in love with the thick woods and striking apple orchards. Tirthan Valley is the main entry point to the Great Himalayan National Park. If you have time to wander around and explore the premises, don’t hesitate. The bird watching experience, walks through the natural habitat, river rafting, and overnight camping should make your honeymoon memorable.
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Planning the perfect honeymoon is not exactly the easiest decision to make. Fortunately, Himalaya has plenty of surprising destinations that will sweep you off your feet. Kasol is a charming village nestled within the beautiful Parvati Valley. Some call it India’s “mini Israel”. Onsite, you’ll come across lots of Israeli backpackers and traditional restaurants with excellent signature foods.
Kasol is surprisingly beautiful. The mountain scenery is splendid; as for activities, honeymooners should venture into the wild and explore the picturesque sights in the area. Make sure to stop by Parvati River, or engage in a trekking trip uphill; through the lush forest that connects Kheer Ganga to Tosh Valley.
Leh-Ladakh
Located up-north from the Great Indian Himalayan range, Leh-Ladakh prides with spectacular natural sights. The sheer beauty of the region exceeds all expectations. There are beautiful Buddhist monasteries in the area you should check out; if you’re the type of honeymooner hunting for peace and relaxation, this is the best place to reconnect with nature. Leh-Ladakh is also an adventurous travel spot. Among some of the activities it boasts, we should mention mountain biking, trekking, and adventure climbing. Which one’s your favorite?
We know that planning the best honeymoon vacation can be challenging. However, if you make plans in advance and settle on an itinerary that appeals to your senses, everything will turn out as planned. Decide on the best Kumaon hotel, books flights with at least 4 months in advance, and let the adventure begin. The Himalayan range is vast; note that you won’t be able to explore it all in 7 days. Set some priorities and settle on the region with the highest potential to exceed your expectations.
Tired of the usual stuff?
Tired of doing the same thing again and again?
Tired of leading a life in monotony?
Well who doesn’t need a change?
How about checking these Top 30 offbeat places in India to visit and bringing back the thrill in your life?
- Dhanushkodi
- Bhangarh Fort
- Roopkund
- Khajjiar
- Drass
- Malana
- Sandakphu
- Spiti Valley
- Gravity defying palace
- Pangong Lake
- Valley of flowers
- Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
- Halebid, Karnataka
- Chembra Peak, Kerala
- Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
- Majuli, Assam
- Champaner – Pavagadh, Gujarat
- Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
- Gokarna, Karnataka
- Patan, Gujarat
- Manas National Park, Assam
- Varkala, Kerala
- Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
- Tadoba, Maharashtra
- Lunglei, Mizoram
- Mokokchung, Nagaland
- Talasari Beach, Odisha
- Bundi, Rajasthan
- Devprayag, Uttarakhand
- Chopta, Uttarakhand
- Kalimpong, West Bengal
- Nubra Valley, Ladakh
1. Dhanushkodi
Situated somewhere in the southern tip of Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi is in the southeast of Pamban. It is a jinxed place where a cyclone in 1964 killed 1800 people and through various rough weathers and twist of fate, the place has retained a ghost look for decades. Today only a few fishermen can be seen on the beaches. Another attraction at Dhanushkodi is the Adam’s bridge, the significance of which dates back to the time when Lord Rama was supposed to have built the bridge for crossing over to Lanka.
2. Bhangarh Fort
You may have just seen them in movies but you actually hear stories in abundance in this place called Bhangarh fort. It is based in Rajasthan where everyone visits Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer but a place like Bhangarh fort is discussed only in hush whispers. It is believed that this place was cursed and people are not advised to go there alone or beyond a certain time. It is also the only historical site in India where there are no ASI offices. Maybe it could be a figment of one’s imagination, maybe the ghostly stories are mere hearsay… why don’t you check it for yourself?
3. Roopkund
Roopkund is a large grassland with beautiful streams and villages adding to the landscape. It is one of India’s most famous trekking places. Based in Uttarakhand, it is a beautiful and mysterious glacial lake. The main attraction of Roopkund is the banks of the lake. Here, one can find human skeletons dating back to the Paleolithic age.
4. Khajjiar
If Switzerland is your dream destination, think again! You need not travel that far. Khajjar a quaint village in the Chamba district of HP is India’s very own Switzerland. The place is picturesque in every possible way. Lush greenery, mountain ranges, lakes, Deodar forests, beautiful meadows just blend together into a beautiful array to give you one of the most amazing experiences you can ever imagine!
5. Drass
Few people know about Drass and that’s not what makes it an interesting place. It is often referred to as Gateway to Ladakh. Situated in Kargil district of J & K, The valley touches an altitude of 10,990 and the ridges in the mountain ranges from 16,000 to 21,000. It is also the second coldest colonized place in Asia.
6. Malana
A tiny village, Malana is unique in every possible way. Situated in the North east of Kullu with only 100 houses, it is believed that the Malanis are descendants of Alexander the great! Another highlight of this village is that “Charas” or “Malana Cream” is grown here. Malana is also called as the “Little Greece of Himachal Pradesh”
7. Sandakphu
For a trekker, the ultimate achievement would be to reach the mountain peak and then sink into the journey that they just made upto. Sandakphu is one such range nestled in Darjeeling. The name signifies the height of poison due to the plants that grow at the peak of this mountain. Once you reach the mountain top the view is amazing and is just worth all the trouble one goes through to reach there. Another highlight of this range is that once you reach the top you can view four of world’s five tallest peaks namely Everest, Kanchenjunga, Maklau and Lhotse peaks. No wonder it’s called the Paradise for trekkers!
8. Spiti Valley
If you are in it for altitudes, then you can’t miss Spiti valley which is located in Himachal with a towering 12,500 feet above sea level and having only mountain ranges for company. Soaring peaks, snow clad mountains and having two of the oldest monasteries in the world; the Ki monastry and Tabo monastery both which are a favourite of the Dalai Lama.
9. Gravity defying palace
How can a hall with a spread of almost 50 metres, three stories high be constructed without any beams or pillars. Built by an eighteenth century monarch Nawab Asaf-Ud-Daula, it is both a blend of Arabic and European architecture. The main hall was built intricately with interlocking brick-work and is famous for its enigmatic architecture of “Bhulbhulaiya or a dense maze”. This maze is made of more than 1,000 narrow staircase passages, to prevent intruders from entering the inner complex. Considered by many as a man-made wonder, this gravity defying palace is based in Lucknow, northern state of Uttar Pradesh.
10. Pangong Lake
Imagine you are seeing a wonderful painting and it suddenly pops out right in front of you.
Still and calm waters, clear skies, bright sun shining above, trees swaying to the tune of the coolest breeze, snow-capped mountains to add to the aesthetic appeal. Can you ask for more?
Well, the Pangong lake is just that and more. Situated at an altitude of 4350 meters, it’s only post card picture perfect. The Pangong lake is the highest situated salt water lake. It is 134 Kms long and almost 5 Kms wide and more than 60% of this lake extends onto Tibet. This place really makes for one of the best tourist attractions.
11. Valley of flowers
What if you are suddenly thrown in a place where there are only flowers as far as your eyes can see? Well, imagine no further coz’ the great Himalayan range has exactly that and much more to offer you. With the vast Gharwal hills in Uttaranchal there dwells the most amazing flora that you can ever imagine! There lies the Valley of flowers National park featuring the rugged and much rocky mountain wilds of the Nanda Devi National Park. It is spread over ninety square kilometre, a home to the rarest of rare flowers such as tulips, orchids, daisies, primulas, poppies etc. The next time you wanna woo your loved one, this place will surely do the trick.
- Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Mawlynnong in Meghalaya, is one of the must visit offbeat places in India. Blessed with the charm of North East India, Mawlynnong has been awarded as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. The eco-friendly village community will give you some amazing lessons on life.
The scenic bliss of the town is refreshing for your senses. There are waterfalls to visit, caves to explore and most importantly walk on the Living Roots Bridge. Created out of the roots of the trees, the bridges are truly a wonder. Don’t’ stop at just this town, backpack throughout Meghalaya.
- Halebid, Karnataka
Halebid in Karnataka is one of the ancient temple towns of South India. The town is untouched by tourist crowds, therefore a beautiful offbeat experience. Known as Dwarasamudra, gateway to the seas, Halebid is the capital of the Hoysala Dynasty for about 150 years.
Sacked by the armies of Malik Kafur in the early 14th century, the town fell into a state of ruin. Even in the ravaged state, the town’s glory still remains undiminished. Spend time exploring the temple ruins of Halebid. You can also combine your tour with a visit to Belur along with Jain monuments at Shravanabelagola
- Chembra Peak, Kerala
An exciting trekking trip, the Chembra Peak in Kerala is one of the best offbeat destinations in India. It is located in Wayanad district, at 6,900 ft in the lush lap of misty Western Ghats. The peak is popular for adventure enthusiast trekkers and nature lovers. In fact, to get to the peak it’s mandatory to get permission passes from the Forest Department for the safety of trekkers and preservation of wildlife.
- Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
One of the most beautiful places in Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is blessed with beauty, bliss and incredible experiences. Away from the touristy trails, Ziro is among the beautiful offbeat destinations in India. Puffy white clouds float in the horizon. Beautiful green patches and rice fields are visible as far as the eye can see. ion addition, the Apatani tribe welcomes you with their friendly smiles and you would love to know their way of life. The Ziro music festival is a great time to visit. Don’t just visit Ziro stay there as a local.
- Majuli, Assam
The largest river island in the world, Majuli is one of those places you must visit once in a lifetime. Located on the banks of Brahmaputra River, the island spread over 421.65 square kilometers is one of the must visit place in Assam. The island of Majuli is only accessible via ferries which can be taken from Jorhat. One of the potential contenders of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Majuli has a unique culture. Mostly tribals inhabit the lands. In addition, festivals, food and the serene charm are the highlights of the town.
- Champaner – Pavagadh, Gujarat
One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Champaner is a historical treasure. Nestled in the Pavagadh hills, this one of the interesting offbeat places to visit in Gujarat. Here you can actually imagine the olden days. The Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a delight of Hindu and Islamic styles of designs which date from the 8th to 16th century. The ruins include agricultural buildings, mosques, and a fortress. This site was once an important religious shrine and point of pilgrimage. Despite its ruinous condition today, it is as special as it is intriguing.
- Hemis, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Ladakh is itself offbeat, favored by adventure lovers. One of the less talked about places in Ladakh, Hemis is a beautiful place surrounded by snowcapped ranges all around. Pay a visit to the Hemis Gompa. The monastery is beautiful and one needs to spend time here. The Hemis National Park, the home to the snow leopard is thrilling. Carry your camera, if luck favors you can capture a click. Hemis makes you forget buzzing cities. Enjoy the simple pleasures and spend night stargazing, you will truly love it.
- Gokarna, Karnataka
Of the many beautiful beach towns, Gokarna is one of the offbeat secrets of India. Famous for its pristine, unspoilt beaches, Gokarna is a temple town primarily, with a slow and relaxed atmosphere, which makes for a very pleasurable offbeat holiday. Away from crowds, the shores of the Karnataka town is drenched is beach bliss. Hire a motorbike and explore the town. Pay a visit to the ancient te0mples. Enjoy watching the sunrise and sunset. Go for a swim in the waters anytime. The shacks on the beach have great food, great music and interesting people.
- Patan, Gujarat
One of the newest addition to India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Patan in Gujarat will make for a lovely offbeat holiday places to travel to. Dating back to 745 AD, Patan, the former capital of the Chandva Rulers is dotted with lovely temples, lakes, and beautiful step walls. Ran Ki Vav being the most prominent one. Built in the 11th century, this grand step-well of Maru-Gurjara architectural style is designed as an inverted temple as obeisance to life-giving water. Patan is quite famous for Patola sarees, one of the finest hand-made textiles in the world.
- Manas National Park, Assam
A gem of North East, Manas National Park at the foothills of the Bhutan-Himalayas in the state of Assam is one of the awesome experience. It is one of the first reserves of Project Tiger in 1973 blessed with unique biodiversity and landscape. The wildlife sanctuary has substantial population of Royal Bengal Tigers and was inscribed as World Heritage Site. The last species of Pygmy Hog survive in the wilderness of Manas and nowhere else in the world. It is one of the offbeat places in India, where adventure abounds and tourist can have a wonderful time.
- Varkala, Kerala
Snuggled on the shores of Arabian Sea, Varkala in Kerala is a quaint paradise. Replete with clear, pristine beaches, hills, shrines, lighthouses, the beach town is one of the best offbeat places in India. Once you are here, pay a visit to Papanasam beach, where sadhus perform holy rituals. A holy spring flows by where pilgrims take a cleansing bath. Treat yourself to adventure sports like paragliding and parasailing. Escape the cities, the crowded shores and come to Varkala for a quiet vacation. Opt for Ayurveda or learn yoga and meditation. Go swimming, sunbathing or just sit on the shores.
- Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
A name which completes the list of amazing offbeat destinations in India, Mandu in Madhya Pradesh is not just a place, but an experience one must not miss. The town of Mandu is testament to the love between Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. One can actually relive the days of the bygone era here. Explore the awe-inspiring Islamic architectural brilliance displayed in Mandu Fort, Jahaz Mahal, Jami Masjid, Hindola Mahal, Baz Bahadur’s Palace, Rewa Kund etc. The slow soothing pace of Mandu makes your forget the concepts of time, you are in a world of its own.
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
The scenic town of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh comprises the charm of North East India. Popularly known as the birth place of the sixth Dalai Lama, the picturesque town is a holy site of Tibetan Buddhism in India. Visit the Tawang Monastery and Taktsang Gompa for bliss. Adventure also abounds here. Visit the Sela pass, Bumla Pass, the ethereal Shonga-tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls and Pankang Teng Tso Lake. The magnificent Gorichen Peak inspires adventure with us. Scaling the heights is an ultimate challenge. Tawang offers one of the best offbeat vacations in India.
- Tadoba, Maharashtra
Unexplored and abundantly blessed with plenty of wildlife, we come to the next offbeat destination India on our list, Tadoba. The town in Maharashtra is known for Tadoba National Park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Tadoba Lake, Erai dam, Moharli and Khosla village. It is often named as the ‘Jewel of Vidarbha’. Perfect for wildlife vacations and to spend time away from cities, Tadoba is one of the best kept Tiger Reserves in India and the largest in Maharashtra. Go for safaris or opt for a jungle stay.
- Lunglei, Mizoram
A true offbeat town, Lunglei is the second largest city in the beautiful state of Mizoram. It is a mix of natural beauty, attractions and delights in the quaint corner of North East India. Things to do on an offbeat vacation in Lunglei include visit the stone bridge after which the town gets its name. Spend time exploring Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the unique species. Do visit the Saikuti Hall. Here you can enjoy a glimpse of the intriguing heritage of Mizoram through art, concerts and celebrations.
- Mokokchung, Nagaland
Tribal, rustic and an experience of a lifetime, Mokokchung in Nagaland is one of the top offbeat destinations in India for an awesome experience. Home of the Ao tribe, the town is cultural and intellectual capital of Nagaland. It is known for rich hospitality, rich traditions and festivals. The attractions to check out in this offbeat town comprise of Changkikong Range, Langpangkong, Fusen Kei and Mongzu Ki Caves, Changtongya, Longkhum Village, Longritzu Lenden Valley, Tangkum Marok Spring, Mokokchung District Museum, Mokokchung Park, etc. Just arrive with your bags and these friendly folks will make sure that you have a great time.
- Talasari Beach, Odisha
Almost a secret, as it is very less frequented, the Talasari beach is one of those offbeat places vacations are unforgettable memories. The shores are calm and peaceful. Talasari fascinates tourists with its backwaters, which one needs to cross to reach the sea. The tropical weather all year round makes it a popular destination for those looking for solitude. The scenic charm is something you cherish on your stay. The estuary of the Subarnarekha River is seen in a distance further adding to its beauty. There are very few tourist facilities which further enhance its charm.
- Bundi, Rajasthan
Rajasthan is one of the most visited places in India. One of the small towns in the state, Bundi is one of the best places for an offbeat getaway. The 12th century town is known for magnificent palaces and havelis, wonderful forts and temples. Take a look at awe-inspiring paintings at Chitrashala. Explore the relics of the old days. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the desert town. The Bundi Festival is a spectacular culmination of traditional art, culture and crafts, which is a good time to plan your trip. The mix of desert life and a glimpse of colorful culture await at Bundi.
- Devprayag, Uttarakhand
Devprayag is a place of holy confluence of two sacred rivers namely Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. The merger in turns form the most worshipped river in our country, River Ganga. The celestial town is positioned at an elevation of 830 metres above sea level. Pay a visit to the holy places such as Sangam, Raghunath Ji Temple, Dhaneshwar Mahadev temple, Danda Nagaraja temple. It is the winter home of Pandas, the priests of Badrinath. Adventure lovers can also indulge in activities such as white-water river rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, trekking and rappelling.
- Chopta, Uttarakhand
Chopta is a scenic hill station in Uttarakhand. In contrast to the tourist crowded hill towns, Chopta is relatively unknown. Watch the snow-covered peaks in the backdrop. The green slopes and grassy meadows have a relaxed vibe. It is certainly a perfect spot to take a break from the city life. Enjoy the lesser pleasures of life in the picturesque town. If you are keen on adventure then Chopta serves as a base to trek to Tungnath temple and the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary. You can also trek to Chandrashila peak. Enjoy natural bliss on your offbeat holiday in Uttarakhand.
- Kalimpong, West Bengal
Kalimpong is one of beautiful hill stations of North East India. The town in West Bengal is off the charted tourist routes. A little way from Darjeeling, you can enjoy an idyllic offbeat vacation here. Enjoy the picturesque bliss of mountains. Above all, the exclusive views of the striking snow laden Himalayas are awe-inspiring. If you seek to escape the demanding city life, the town definitely goes for a rejuvenating aura. Go for walks through towering pine trees and rolling hills with the chirping birds for company. The pure mountain air helps you discover inner peace.
- Nubra Valley, Ladakh
Truly a miracle of nature, Nubra Valley in Ladakh is one of the true offbeat places in India. The valley in Ladakh is a unique site; in fact a fusion of a desert, lush fields and a small town. A visit to Nubra valley opens a multitude of opportunities. Explore the desert complete with sand dunes inhabited by double humped Bactrian camels. Enjoy the scenery of lush greenery fed by two rivers. In addition, discover quaint villages at the foothills of ancient monasteries. An incredible experience, Nubra Valley is one of the most amazing locations in India and one you must visit.