The silhouette of the Taj Mahal is an unmistakable icon and is the most visited place in
India. But the country is half the size of the USA and 13 times bigger than the UK, so be prepared to expand your bucket list a few times after learning about these unexpected gems in India.
India has made a remarkable post-COVID tourism comeback, and airlines are increasing their
routes and flight frequency. The simple system to get an e-visa to India also helps to make
this a no-brainer destination for intrepid travelers.
Here is a look at some of the more underrated things to see and do in India in 2023:
Keibul Lamjao National Park
India’s vibrant culture and wild cities often enjoy the most attention from tourists, but in 2023 it is time for nature to take a front seat.
Keibul Lamjao National Park is one of the country’s most important reserves and is a one-of-a-kind floating national park.
Most of the park comprises Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in southern Asia. It is characterized by alien-like circular patches of vegetation floating on the lake. The park is also home to the Eld’s Deer, which was almost extinct at one point but has made a remarkable comeback.
Chand Baori stepwell
This unique construction is in the village of Abhaneri, about 2 hours east of Jaipur. This ancient oddity dates back to the 10th century and is a true construction marvel. More than 3,500 staps zig-zag down the 4 sides of a 30-meter-deep well.
Chand Boari is a vertigo-inducing monument that reminds one of the mind-altering Penrose Stairs, and it is difficult to grasp how people could conceptualize such a complex construction of more than 1,000 years ago.
Stepwells were created as a constant water source for traders as they passed through the harsh desert regions of India. At the bottom of the well, people could also take a break from the heat as temperatures tend to be around 5° cooler than at the surface.
Tawang Monastery
This one is not for the faint of heart, but if you fancy yourself an adventure seeker, look no further.
In a remote corner of north-eastern India is the town of Tawang, where you can see
the second-biggest Buddhist monastery in the world, located in the northern Himalayas and
borders Tibet and Butan.
A series of hairpin bends lead you to a village sprawled on snowy slopes, almost 3,500 m above sea level. If you can secure a Protected Area Permit, you will be privy to the untold beauty of the region.
Epic mountain vistas will enchant you, while the off-the-grid journey to this remote location will feed your need for adventure.
Patan
This historic city is close to the border of Pakistan and under 3 hours from Ahmedabad. The most notable attraction in Patan is the Rani-ki-Vav, or the Queen’s Stepwell, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This well is an inverted temple with over 1,500 sculptures adorning its inner walls.
Around Patan, you can also visit several magnificent historical sites that serve as a window
into the ancient times of India.
You can visit Sahastralinga Talav to see an intricate medieval water tank, the Modhera Sun Temple to learn about India’s heritage, and Shri Panchasara Parshwanath Mandir temple to admire the sophisticated white marble architecture that India prides itself on.
Bangaram Island
It is understandable if you have never associated crystal clear water, thriving coral reefs, and sparkling white beaches with India. But it is time to rethink your idea of heaven because this Island is just off the west coast of Lakshadweep, making it a unique site.
Bangaram Island is a tiny spec of land that is only 1.2km long, but this is the ultimate place to escape and unwind.
There are only 12 cottages on the island, and you will fly to Agatti Airport on Agatti Island (equally as mesmerizing) and then take a 20-minute speedboat ride. You can scuba dive in the Arabian Sea and watch bioluminescent waves dance under the moonlight after your traditional dinner on the beach.
A Yak Safari
Everyone knows about a horseback safari. You might even have seen a camel trek at some point. But a Yak safari is a completely new adventure that will give you an experience you won’t soon forget.
Mount a half-ton yak in Sikkim to explore the region like a local. Under the watchful eye of
the Himalayan peaks, you will make your way through glacial valleys and past alpine forests.
These gentle giants are even registered with the Department of Tourism and Aviation (no, they can’t fly), making them an official attraction in this region.
Have you ever seen these magnificent gems in India? Do you have more to add? Leave a comment below!
Comments
Informative blog.Thank you for creating this useful article.