Explore these five offbeat locations this summer
Come summer, and a wanderlust sets in among travellers to explore exotic locations across India that offer a little of everything — luxury, adventure, scenic beauty, delectable cuisines and tons of activities to keep you engaged. At these five offbeat locations, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for!
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Himalayas, Ziro Valley — also a UNESCO World Heritage site — is a haven for both nature lovers and music fans. Here, you can truly embrace local culture when you meet the Apatani tribe, known for their unique face tattoos and rich heritage. If you are a fan of live, independent music, plan a trip here in September this year so you can attend the annual Ziro Music Festival.
Patnitop – Sanget Valley, Jammu and Kashmir
Located in Jammu’s Udhampur district, the picturesque hill station of Patnitop, is a very popular summer tourist destination. This quaint hilltop, with its lush deodar trees, gentle slopes, beautiful vistas, and natural environment, is a perfect getaway with friends or family. The biggest attraction of Patnitop, however, is the 22-acre mountain harbour — Skyview By Empyrean in Sanget Valley. This ultimate destination combines fine hospitality, adventure, natural beauty, and luxury to offer you a 360-degree experience. What’s more? You get to experience a ride on Skyview Gondola, — India’s highest Gondola (in terms of ground clearance) which adheres to CEN (European) standard certification, with daily safety checks, making it among the safest ropeways in the world that covers 2.8 km in flat 10-13 minutes! Glide over verdant valleys, bubbling streams, and mirror lakes on this exciting gondola ride. Outdoor adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, mountain bike riding, archery, All-Terrain Vehicles and more! For those on a spiritual path, the Vaishno Devi Mata temple is just 90 minutes away.
Sethan, Himachal Pradesh
Sethan, nicknamed ‘Switzerland of Himachal Pradesh’ offers a slice of paradise to those seeking adventure in the midst of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. If you love the outdoors, indulge in activities like paragliding or, cast a line into pristine streams and soak in the peaceful vibe at leisure. Known for its serene environment, beautiful landscapes, and traditional Himachali culture, Sethan is popular among travelers seeking a peaceful getaway amidst nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Gokarna, Karnataka
If the hills are not your scene and you are more of a beach bum, Gokarna beckons! This temple town located on the pristine Konkan coast has some of India’s most stunning, unexplored golden beaches and turquoise waters that will remind you of Maldives or Mauritius! If it is spirituality that you are seeking, explore the ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva that will fill you with a sense of peace.
Sinthan Valley, Jammu & Kashmir
Embark on a journey to Kashmir’s lesser-known Valley of Flowers. During the summer months, the Sinthan Valley explodes into a tapestry of colourful flowers, transforming the landscape into paradise. Experience the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality offered with the biggest smiles at local villages, where traditions are preserved and stories are woven around crackling fires.
Each location promises a unique adventure so ditch the crowds this summer and embark on an adventure to discover these offbeat, stunning destinations of India.