India is one of the worldβs most populated countries, and at over 1 billion people it is second in sizeΒ only to China. Because of this well-known fact many people who havenβt visited the country or whoβve only been to major economic centres such as Mumbai and New Delhi tend to consider it a frenetic place of perpetual hustle and bustle. T
But a trip outside these international hubs will soon provide visitors with a look at the many beautiful villages of India, fromΒ the coastal regions in the south to the mountains in the north. If youβre planning cheap holidays to IndiaΒ and want to explore off the trodden path, then consider a visit to one or more of these scenic village spots. You’ll find everything from fairy-tale like forests, and some of the most beautiful beaches in India.
- Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Mawlynnon was designated the cleanest village in Asia just over a decade ago, and this tropical looking paradise offers a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding region, especially from its 85-foot high tower.
- Munsiyari , Kumaon
Sitting on one of the worldβs most historic and ancient trade route, the Salt Road, Munsiyari lies in the hills of Kumaon, surrounded by lush vegetation and snowcapped mountains.
- Malana, Himachal Pradesh
Located in the mountains aboveΒ the Kullu Valley, the village of Malana is an ancient one, said to have descended from a tribe of Alexanderβs Army who broke off and decided to call this pristine area home. Enjoy panoramic views and fresh air, but be sure to respect the local culture.
- Khonoma, Nagaland
Referred to by many as the greenest valley of India, Khonoma is a Naga village surrounded by dense forest and lush valleys a mere 20km outside the regional capital of Kohima.
- Nako, Lahaul Spiti
The village of Nako sits along the Tibetan border, and the mix of rocky barren crags and grassy slopes make for a dramatic and picturesque mountain vista. There is an ancient monastery that can be visited in the village, and a lake for boating and ice-skating, depending on the season. A trek to nearby Tashigang village will also reward visitors with some of the best sightseeing the country has to offer.
- Kumarakom, Kottayam
Kumarakom is a stunning village located on a cluster of islands in the Kottayam district in Kerala. It is well known for its local freshwater fish karimeen, as well as prawns. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in India.
If youβre headed to India and want to see more than the traditional tourist sites, then be sure to make your way to some of the countryβs stunning rural villages.
Images by Β Uddhav GuptaΒ andΒ KumaravelΒ Β used under Creative Commons License.
Great list! I’m most excited about #4, but I’d love to visit any of them.
-Claire
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