Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya weave together a tapestry of offbeat adventures for travellers seeking silence, nature and authentic experiences

Published on December 1, 2025

Across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya, travellers find landscapes and experiences far removed from India’s usual tourist circuits. These states collectively offer pockets of deep silence, stretches of untouched nature and communities that preserve traditions at their own pace—elements that make offbeat travel here both grounding and genuinely immersive. From abandoned coastal towns and quiet forest valleys to remote high-altitude deserts and culturally rich river islands, each region contributes a different thread to a larger tapestry of slow, authentic exploration.

While India boasts countless iconic destinations, a growing number of travellers are now seeking corners of the country that are far from the usual crowds. These hidden spots range from abandoned towns and forest enclaves to remote highlands and tranquil islands. What ties them together is a singular appeal: they allow visitors to travel at their own rhythm, away from the rush of popular tourist circuits.

Secluded Shores of the South

Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu
At the tip of Tamil Nadu lies Dhanushkodi, an abandoned settlement that carries the echoes of a past storm. Destroyed by a cyclone in 1964, the town’s ruins stretch along an endless coastline. Wandering through the deserted streets and vast beaches, visitors encounter a rare combination of history, solitude, and raw natural beauty.

Gokarna, Karnataka
On the western coast, Gokarna offers a laid-back counterpoint to Goa’s bustling beaches. Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Half Moon Beach remain largely unspoiled, making them ideal for quiet reflection or long walks. The town’s compact layout and low-key atmosphere make it a perfect retreat for those who prefer a slower pace.

Mountain Retreats and Himalayan Escapes

Chopta, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, Chopta is a serene base for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Known for its sweeping views and gentle trekking trails, it allows visitors to soak in the majesty of the mountains without the pressure of crowded trails.

Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Tirthan Valley offers a languid rhythm with riverside trails, small homestays, and stretches of forest. The valley’s understated charm lies in its quiet simplicity, far from the bustling markets and commercial hubs found elsewhere in Himachal Pradesh.

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
For those seeking true isolation, Spiti Valley is a striking choice. High-altitude villages like Kaza and Tabo punctuate the barren, rugged landscape, while monasteries such as Key Monastery provide cultural depth. Seasonal access ensures that this remote region remains largely untouched, maintaining its stark, dramatic beauty.

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro Valley stands out with its rolling hills and the distinctive Apatani community. The valley remains largely tranquil, with only the annual Ziro Festival of Music bringing larger crowds. For the rest of the year, it’s a peaceful haven for immersive exploration.

Wildlife, Islands, and Village Life

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Kanha National Park offers a quintessential wildlife experience. Its grasslands and sal forests are home to tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species. Scheduled safaris in the early morning and late afternoon allow visitors to engage deeply with the natural environment while avoiding overcrowding.

Majuli, Assam
Floating on the Brahmaputra, Majuli is the world’s largest river island. With its cultural richness, monasteries, and eco-tourism initiatives, the island offers an unhurried experience where visitors can connect with local traditions and the natural surroundings.

Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Recognised as one of Asia’s cleanest villages, Mawlynnong embodies community-driven tourism. Walking through the village and exploring its famous living-root bridges provides an intimate look at a place where culture and nature coexist in harmony.

Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya offer quiet coastal stretches, remote mountain trails, wildlife-rich forests and culturally rich villages that allow travellers to escape crowds and experience nature and local life more authentically. These regions remain less commercialised, giving visitors the space and silence needed for meaningful, slow-paced exploration.

These offbeat destinations reveal a side of India that is serene, authentic, and untamed. For travellers willing to step away from crowded landmarks, they offer the freedom to explore, reflect, and experience the country in a way that is both personal and unforgettable.