15 Unique Places in India, totally Offbeat and Amazing

Ten thousand years of history can be traced back to the country India, what was called Bharat once. Travel in India, an area of 3.287 million km², can take years!

India represents diverse landscapes that gave shape to an enormous variety of languages, cultures and species of flora and fauna. Even today archaeologists stumble on new discoveries of prehistoric sites. In this scenario what travel destinations will experience the different facets of India?

Where to Travel in India?

This is a mind boggling question that can hit your mind when you plan a trip to India or try to make an itinerary to see different places in India. The usual choices that crop up in mind are Taj Mahal, Golden Temple of Amritsar, Hampi and maybe even Mumbai. Keeping these aside I chose the unique tourist places in India. These are some lesser-known destinations that are just as exciting.

Over the years I have travelled through them back in time, using modern means of transportation. I, with my family and friends, did some of the best road trips in India through these states. Very often we packed our travel bags and set off on self made itineraries after referring to travel books like Lonely Planet and DK.

Although all major cities are well connected by air and rail, India can be a challenging place to visit if not planned properly. For a good budget travel through the different destinations in India the cheapest mode would be to travel by state buses. They are a great and cost effective way of travelling short distances.

15 Unique Places in India

I have travelled mostly by road in a hired taxi or self driven private vehicles. Refer to this list of unique tourist attractions in India to make an itinerary of your own. History buffs, spiritually inclined, culture vultures, art adorers, nature lovers – there is something for all.

1. Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh

Have you been to any heritage site that is located underground? Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh is one such place filled with natural wonders underground. It is ranked the second largest cave system in India.

Findings inside provide evidence that the caves were once used by Jain and Buddhists monks. Though the locals always knew of these caves, it was open to tourists in 2005. Since then there has been a rush of tourists to see this underworld wonder.

The random growth of speleothems in clusters along the cave roof and walls has formed unique shapes and figures. The caves are an ideal spot to visit with family and children in Andhra Pradesh India. It is an educational site, children interested in Geology and Earth Sciences can benefit a lot by visiting this 3.3 km long series of caves which has a rich growth of Stalactites and stalagmites.

Avoid summers, as it can get very stuffy inside the caves.

Address: 1/1, Opposite Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Kolimigundla, Andhra Pradesh 518123

Read more:
Belum Caves Kurnool
20 Rock Cut Cave Temples of India

Belum Caves Andhra Pradesh – Unique tourist attractions in India

2. Manas National Park in Assam

UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985, Manas National Park is located on the foothills of Himalayas, and extends to Bhutan. The park is a part of Bodoland Tourism in Assam. It has a variegated ecosystem with woodlands, Terai grasslands, wetlands, and hill forests. Endangered species, such as tiger, pygmy hog, one-horn rhinoceros and elephant can be found here if you get lucky during the organized safaris by the park authorities.

Bird watchers are amply rewarded with sights of exotic birds. Ask for a guide at the ticketing place that will make your visit worthwhile. What is most impressive here is that through rescue and rehabilitation, Manas National Park is turning into a thriving home for India’s rhino. If wildlife is your interest Manas National Park is one of the best places to visit in India.

Address: M252+QF6, Manas Road, Barangabari Gyati Village, Dist Baksa, Gobardhana, Assam 781315

There are plenty of good stay options around Manas National Park. Check this: Where to Stay near Manas National Park.
While here don’t miss out on traditional tasty dishes of Bodoland cuisine

Manas National Park – Unique Tourist attractions of India

3. Danteshwari Temple, a Shakti Peeth in Chhattisgarh

India is a land of temples dedicated to different Gods and Goddesses. If you are spiritually inclined it is unlikely that you run out of choices to make.

Here is a unique temple that is a part of chain of temples called Shakti Peeths scattered over India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal and Pakistan. Pithanirnaya Tantra, Holy Scripture of Hindus, mentions the 51 shakti peethas, where the body parts of corpse Goddess Sati had fallen. Bhagwan Vishnu with his weapon had chopped off the corpse when Bhagwan Shiva danced in a trance with the corpse, as He refused to part with His dead wife.

Danteshwari Temple, in Dantewada, Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, is one among them. It is believed that the tooth of Goddess Sati had fallen here.

Address: H5F7+WRR, Pacheda, Durg, Chhattisgarh 491228

Hot Tip – Be sure to visit the Chitrakote Waterfalls in Bastar. It is called the Niagara of India.
Read more:
Chitrakote Falls

Danteshwari Mandir Dantewada Chhattisgarh

4. Museum of Houses in Goa

Sights of long stretches of beaches flood our minds when we hear about Goa, the smallest state of India. But beaches can be done any time of day or night, why not explore a little unknown treasures of Goa. While in Goa, you can plan a visit to the unique ‘Houses of Goa Museum’, 5 km north of Panjim.

It has a well documented collection of information on history of the houses of Goa, different types of houses of Goa, the kind of materials used, interiors and furniture used in the houses of Goa and a special section on significant symbols of the Goan houses.

‘Houses of Goa Museum’ is an ideal place to visit any time of the year, and a wise choice to spend time during monsoon rains. Please note it is closed on Mondays.

Address: House No. 674, Near Nisha’s Play School,Torta ,Salvador do Mundo, Penha de França, Goa 403101

Read more:
Plan a different Goa Experience for Holidays

5. Dholavira with prehistoric findings in Gujarat

Dholavira, a Harappan site, is India’s 40^th UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating back to 3^rd to mid-2^nd millennium BCE, these are well preserved urban settlements in South Asia. This archaeological site at Kachchh District, in the state of Gujarat is a treasure house of remains from that era. The artefacts excavated here are displayed in the archaeological museum.

In addition the excavated site and the museum you can visit the Kutch Fossil Park which is a single man’s collection fossilised wood belonging to Jurassic era. The Rann Lake nearby is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like flamingos. If you are an avid bird watcher visit during peak of the season when thousands of thousands of them visit to transform the whole region into a pink area.

Address: Khadir Bet, Kutch district, Gujarat, India

Read more:
Archaeological Museum Dholavira
Archaeological Remains in Lothal

Kutch Fossil Park Dholavira India

6. Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh

There are lots and lots to see in Himachal Pradesh; however Dharamshala stands out for being a prominent Buddhist tour destination in India. It is home for all the Tibetans in exile. Dharamshala also scores over other scenic destinations like Kullu-Manali, a famous destination for honeymooners, for more adventure related activities.

Dharamshala is pleasant in summers, while in winters the temperature dips to 4 to 7 degrees. Monsoons are best avoided here.

Be sure to visit Mcleodganj where the world renowned Tibetan spiritual leader, 14th Dalai Lama resides. It is a beautiful town situated near upper Dharamsala. You have the unique opportunity to stay in Gyuto monastery, to attend prayer sessions, speak to the monks and become a part of the Tibetan spiritual world. It has rooms for rent for interested visitors.

Address: Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh 176215

Read more:
Where to Stay in Dharamshala?
Travel Guide for Dharamshala

7. Aihole, Patadakal and Badami in Karnataka

I had included a temple and caves in the beginning of this list of unique places to travel in India. These three places are unique for different reasons.

The cluster of temples at Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal are the earliest examples of Hindu rock-cut and temple architecture in India. Spaced within a few kilometres from each other the sculptures of cave temples and stand alone temples speaks volumes of how different religions coexisted peacefully for centuries long before the invasions and looting of Indian riches took place.

It is possible to do all three in one day, but I would suggest keeping aside two days to tour Badami Caves, Aihole and Pattadakal. And since you are here, visit the nearby UNESCO site – Hampi. I have been there thrice, each time I felt I was seeing a new place, spread over a huge area, it can easily take a week to explore the whole place.

Address: Badami Caves, Badami, Karnataka 587201

Read more:
Rock Cut Cave Temples of Badami

8. Edakkal Caves Wayanad in Kerala

If you thought Kerala is famous for its tranquil backwaters you need to explore its varied facets of tourist destinations. I have picked out just one here – Wayanad.

When the winters get too chilly in north India, the hill stations in South India are the best bet for a vacation. Wayanad, one among the many, is a charming hill station of Kerala. October to May is the best time to visit Wayanad.

Wayanad is worth a visit for its waterfalls, wildlife and prehistoric carvings. The hill station offers some of the unforgettable views from the Lakkidi viewpoint. A Jain temple located in the centre of Sulthan Bathery town in the Wayanad District silently testifies the fact that there was significant Jain presence in this area during the 13th century.

Edakkal caves here are the only known place for Stone Age carvings. Pictorial drawings and engravings in the cave indicate the presence of ancient human settlements in the region.

Address: Ambukuthi hills in Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad district Kerala

Read more:
Where to Stay in Wayanad

9. Sanchi Stupa, a Masterpiece among Buddhist Monuments

Sanchi Stupa is one of the burial mounds with ashes of Bhagwan Buddha.

Incorporating many architectural elements like the toranas, hemispherical dome, and remains of Asoka pillar, Sanchi Stupa is largely constructed with locally quarried sandstone. The architectural brilliance of this hemispherical monument is bound to leave you stunned. The monument is 54 ft. high with a pedestal dia 122 ft. The relic chamber is at the dome’s base. Depictions on torana describe the entire life of Buddha.

While there, do visit the Archaeological Museum Sanchi that has exhibits of six cultural periods i.e. Mauryan, Sunga, Satavahana, Kushana, Gupta and late Gupta periods (circa 300 BCE to 700 CE).

Stay back in the town to witness the mesmerizing light and sound show in the same grounds where Samrat Asoka, his wife Devi, his children and his followers had once walked!

Address: Sanchi Town, Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, India

Read more:
Sanchi Stupa – History and Architecture
Sanchi Stupa – Light and Sound Show

10. Lonar Crater in Maharashtra

Of all the sights that I have seen in Maharashtra, Lonar Lake is my favourite. It ranks very high in list of unique places in India! You may have seen and heard of volcanic craters, but Lonar Lake is different. Lonar Lake, formed by asteroid collision with Earth, is one of its kinds in the world. Its origin can be traced back to around 52,000 years ago! Have you seen anything as old as that!

The latest exciting development, in June 2020, at Lonar Lake is its water turning to pink from green color. The scientific reason attributed to this phenomenon is the presence of salt-tolerant algae that produces carotenoids, such as Dunaliella salina, usually in conjunction with specific bacteria. I have seen the green lake but have not witnessed the pink version yet. Take time to tour the temples dotting the Lonar lake shores.

Address:  Buldhana district, Maharashtra, India

Read more:
UNESCO site Ellora Caves
Lonar Lake turns Pink

Lonar Lake

11. Attari Border near Amritsar Punjab

The Attari Wagah Border Beating Retreat Ceremony was started in 1959. Over the years the event has gained popularity among the locals and tourists so much that this place features in almost every tourist’s itinerary. It is a goose bump feeling to witness the flag being lowered when the patriotic fervor of the audience on both sides of the border is at its peak! But the excitement begins long before that when tourists who arrive there early, dance to blaring patriotic Bollywood music with locals in the streets and run the small stretch with Indian flag in hand.

Attari border post is 31.7 km from Amritsar. While in Amritsar don’t miss the Golden Temple, one of the holiest places in the world for Sikhs. Take time to see the world’s largest community kitchen here.

Read more:
Golden Temple Amritsar
Flag Lowering at Attari Border India

12. Great Wall of India in Kumbhalgarh Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh Fort wall, 36 km long, ranks as the second longest continuous wall in the world. If you have time to visit just one fort in Rajasthan, then let Kumbhalgarh Fort be the one. The fort, an architectural marvel in the 15th century, has over nine gates, 360 temples, palaces scattered within its boundary walls. Yet, it is hard to spot the fort from far, so well camouflaged it is in the wilderness of Aravalli Hills.

Best time to visit Kumbhalgarh is during the winter season as the climate remains cool and pleasant. Avoid summers. The highest point of Kumbhalgarh Fort is 30 minutes walk from the entrance. It can take around 3 hours to climb through and explore the gigantic Fort.

The light and sound show that begins at 6.45pm is something you must not miss. Udaipur, the city of Lakes is just two hours away by road from Kumbhalgarh.

Address: Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan 313325

Read more:
Haunted Stories of Muscular Kumbhalgarh Fort
One Day Itinerary for Udaipur City Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh Fort Night Lighting

13. Pichavaram Mangrove Forests

Here is yet another unique place in India that is off the usual tourist trail – a mangrove forest. Have you been to one before?

Pichavaram, on the shores of Tamil Nadu, is the second biggest mangrove forest on Earth. It is located close to Chidambaram. The area spanning 2800 acres has thick growth of mangrove trees that act as natural barriers for the coast. During the Tsunami of 2002 the mesh of mangrove trees protected the shores from being ravaged by the monstrous waves.

Boating here is an interesting activity. In fact, several movies have been picturised in this location. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation and Tamil Nadu Forest Department conduct official boating activities. Private boat services are also available.

The incredible biodiversity of this region shelters more than 200 species of birds, many varieties of seaweed, fish, turtles, otters and around 20 different varieties of trees in the mangrove forest.

Address: CQJJ+QC3, Chidambaram, Killai, Post, Pichavaram, Tamil Nadu 608102

Read more:
Eco tourism at Pichavaram
Temple with no Shadow

Pichavaram Mangrove Forests

14. Charminar in Hyderabad Telangana

There was a time when every kind of product used the name Charminar brand. Charminar was and is so popular that a train operating between Hyderabad and Chennai is named after it – Charminar Express.

Charminar (lit. ‘Four minarets’), a mosque and iconic monument in Hyderabad, is a free sight to see and admire all through the year.

Address: Charminar Rd, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002

The 1000 Pillar Temple in Warangal Telangana located 3 hours away from Hyderabad ranks high in list of unique places of India. The temple is star-shaped, and has numerous shrines inside it. Architecture and the design of every single pillar in this temple are just amazing! The temple was destroyed badly, yet in its damaged condition the magic isn’t lost.

Read more:
Charminar Hyderabad
1000 Pillar Temple Warangal

15. Terracotta Temples in Bishnupur West Bengal

Temples of stone and marble are common, but have you seen temples made of terracotta? Head to Bishnupur in West Bengal, which is a terracotta temple paradise belonging to the medieval era. It will take less than a day to tour the 20 temples in this complex. Avoid summers at any cost, as the temples stand exposed to sky and all vagaries of nature.

In addition to temple architecture, do look out for the famed Bishnupur art, craft and textiles. While the rest of India was using terracotta as vessels, artists of Bengal advanced into using this material as a medium to tell express stories. The craftsmanship expressed in its terracotta figurines, pottery, jewellery, and other decorative artefacts are worth collecting.

Address: Bishnupur temple complex is located in Bankura district of West Bengal

Read more:
Traditional Terracotta Bankura Horse
Baluchari Silk Sari Weavers

Bishnupur Terracotta Temples

Safety Travel Tips for India

• Dress modestly when you travel through India. Avoid tank tops and above the knee skirts and pants.
• Avoid late night outings unless you are in really safe and trusted company.
• Don’t picnic in lonely spots.
• If you are consuming alcohol, be in safe company.
• Always keep your near and dear one informed of your location.

FAQS about Travelling to India

Which is the most mysterious haunted place in India?

Bhangarh Fort in Rajasthan is notoriously famous for being haunted and mysterious especially at night.

Which is the most visited city in India by foreign tourists?

Delhi, the capital city of India, has the maximum footfalls of foreign tourists in India.

Which is the most sensational unsolved mystery of India?

The settlement of Kuldhara, near Jaisalmer, in Rajasthan had a population of roughly 1,500 people for over 500 years. They all vanished one night. No one knows why!

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