"Discover the Hidden Gems: Top Places to Visit in India"

India is a country that is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, diverse landscape, and hospitable people. With its many tourist destinations, it is often challenging to decide where to go and what to see. In this article, we will be exploring some of the hidden gems of India - the top places to visit that are often overlooked by tourists.

1. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi is a small village located in the southern state of Karnataka. It is home to the ruins of the ancient Vijayanagara empire, which flourished between the 14th and 16th centuries. The village is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River and is surrounded by stunning rock formations and lush greenery.

The ruins of Hampi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and include several temples, palaces, and other structures. Some of the must-visit places in Hampi include the Virupaksha Temple, the Vittala Temple, and the Lotus Mahal. Visitors can also take a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River or explore the nearby Anegundi village.

2. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho is a small town located in the central state of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its stunning temples, which date back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The temples are famous for their intricate carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life.

The Khajuraho temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and include several groups of temples, including the Western Group, Eastern Group, and Southern Group. Some of the must-visit temples include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, the Lakshmana Temple, and the Chaturbhuj Temple.

3. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Ziro is a small town located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is home to the Apatani tribe, who are known for their unique customs and traditions. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and rice fields and is famous for its beautiful landscapes and trekking trails.

Some of the must-visit places in Ziro include the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, the Meghna Cave Temple, and the Kile Pakho Ridge. Visitors can also participate in the local festivals and events, such as the Ziro Music Festival and the Myoko Festival.

4. Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna is a small town located on the western coast of India, in the state of Karnataka. It is known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and laid-back atmosphere. The town is also a popular destination for pilgrims, as it is home to the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Some of the must-visit beaches in Gokarna include the Om Beach, the Kudle Beach, and the Half Moon Beach. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and towns, such as Kumta and Murudeshwar, or take a boat ride to the nearby islands.

5. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Mandu is a small town located in the central state of Madhya Pradesh. It is home to several historical monuments and ruins, which date back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and hills and is famous for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Some of the must-visit places in Mandu include the Jahaz Mahal, the Hindola Mahal, and the Rupmati's Pavilion. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and towns, such as Maheshwar and Omkareshwar, or go on a trek to the nearby hills and waterfalls.

6. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Cherrapunji is a small town located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. It is known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and living root bridges. The town receives the highest amount of rainfall in the world and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills.

Some of the must-visit places in Cherrapunji include the Nohkalikai Falls, the Seven Sisters Falls, and the Living Root Bridges. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and towns, such as Shillong and Mawsynram, or go on a trek to the nearby hills and caves.

7. Shekhawati, Rajasthan

Shekhawati is a small region located in the northern state of Rajasthan. It is known for its stunning havelis (mansions), which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The havelis are famous for their intricate frescoes and paintings, which depict scenes from daily life and mythology.

Some of the must-visit havelis in Shekhawati include the Haveli Nadine Le Prince, the Sethani Ka Johara, and the Morarka Haveli Museum. Visitors can also explore the nearby towns and cities, such as Jaipur and Bikaner, or go on a camel safari in the nearby Thar Desert.

8. Majuli, Assam

Majuli is a small island located in the northeastern state of Assam. It is known for its unique culture and traditions, which are a blend of Hinduism and indigenous beliefs. The island is surrounded by the Brahmaputra River and is home to several Satras (monasteries), which are centers of art and culture.

Some of the must-visit places in Majuli include the Kamalabari Satra, the Auniati Satra, and the Garamurh Satra. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and towns, such as Jorhat and Sivasagar, or go on a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River.

9. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is a small district located in the southwestern state of Karnataka. It is known for its stunning landscapes, coffee plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries. The district is surrounded by the Western Ghats and is famous for its beautiful climate and biodiversity.

Some of the must-visit places in Coorg include the Abbey Falls, the Dubare Elephant Camp, and the Nagarhole National Park. Visitors can also explore the nearby towns and cities, such as Mysore and Bangalore, or go on a trek to the nearby hills and waterfalls.

10. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley is a remote region located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its stunning landscapes, high-altitude villages, and Buddhist monasteries. The valley is surrounded by the Himalayas and is famous for its unique culture and traditions.

Some of the must-visit places in Spiti Valley include the Ki Monastery, the Kibber Village, and the Chandratal Lake. Visitors can also explore the nearby towns and cities, such as Shimla and Manali, or go on a trek to the nearby hills and glaciers.

In conclusion, India is a country that is full of surprises and hidden gems. From the ancient ruins of Hampi to the living root bridges of Cherrapunji, there is no shortage of places to visit and things to see. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, India has something for everyone. So why wait? Pack your bags and discover the hidden gems of India today!