TOP UNKNOWN TOURIST SPOTS IN INDIA

1.HAMPI: Hampi is an ancient village located in the southern state of Karnataka, India. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. The village is known for its many temples, palaces, and monuments that date back to the 14th century. The most famous temples include the Virupaksha Temple, the Vittala Temple, and the Hazara Rama Temple.

The village also has many remains of palaces, market places, and other structures that give visitors an insight into the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Royal Enclosure, the Elephant Stables and the Lotus Mahal are some of the famous palaces. Another major attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, the Stone Chariot at the Vittala temple complex.

Hampi is also known for its beautiful landscapes and the Tungabhadra River which flows through the village. The sunset view on the Tungabhadra river is a must-see. Visitors can take a boat ride on the river to see the village from a different perspective.

Hampi is a popular destination for backpackers and history enthusiasts. The best time to visit is between October and March as the weather is pleasant during this time.

2.Tawang Monastery: Tawang Monastery, also known as Tawang Gompa, is a Buddhist monastery located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is the largest Buddhist monastery in India and one of the largest in the world outside of Lhasa, Tibet. The Monastery is situated in the Tawang valley, which is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and is considered a sacred place by the Monpa people who are native to the region.

The Monastery was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in the 17th century and it is the spiritual heart of the Monpa people. It is home to over 500 lamas and contains valuable manuscripts, statues, and other religious artifacts. The main prayer hall of the monastery contains a statue of the Lord Buddha measuring 18 feet high, which is considered the largest statue of Lord Buddha in the world inside a monastery.

The Monastery is also a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take a walk around the complex to see the various temples and shrines, and to learn about the history and culture of the Monpa people.

The best time to visit Tawang Monastery is between March and May, as the weather is pleasant during this time and the flowers are in full bloom. Visitors should note that Tawang is located in a remote area and can only be reached by road via the Sela Pass, which remains closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall.

3.Khajuraho: Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the temples in the complex. The temples were built between 950 and 1050 AD during the reign of the Chandela dynasty. The temples are famous for their erotic sculptures, but they also have many sculptures depicting other aspects of life, including dancers, musicians, and even scenes from everyday life.

The temples are divided into three groups: the Western Group, the Eastern Group, and the Southern Group. The Western Group is the most famous and is home to the largest and most well-preserved temples, including the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, the Chaunsath Yogini Temple, and the Chitragupta Temple. The Eastern Group is smaller and less well-preserved, but it includes the Brahma Temple, which is the only temple in the complex that is dedicated to Lord Brahma. The Southern Group is the least visited, but it includes the Duladeo Temple, which is considered one of the most beautiful temples in the complex.

Khajuraho is also known for its light and sound show, which takes place every evening and tells the story of the temples and the Chandela dynasty. Visitors can also take a walk around the complex and explore the temples on their own.

The best time to visit Khajuraho is between October and March as the weather is pleasant during this time. Visitors should note that the temples are closed on Fridays

4.Spiti Valley: Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert mountain valley located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, India. The valley is located in the Himalayas, and is known for its beautiful landscapes, remote villages, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. It is also known as "The Middle Land" as it is located between India and Tibet.

The valley is home to several small villages, each with their own unique culture and way of life. Visitors can explore the villages and meet the local people, who are known for their warm hospitality. The valley is also home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries, including the Tabo Monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region.

The valley is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Spiti River, which runs through the valley, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors can go trekking, camping, and also do rock climbing. There are also several high-altitude lakes, such as the Suraj Tal, which is one of the highest lakes in the world.

The best time to visit the Spiti Valley is between June and September as the valley remains cut off from the rest of the world during winter months due to heavy snowfall. Visitors should note that the valley is located at a high altitude, so it is important to acclimatize and be prepared for the thin air and cold temperatures.

5.Gokarna: Gokarna is a holy town located on the western coast of India in the state of Karnataka. It is situated on the banks of the Arabian Sea and is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient temples. The town is considered one of the seven most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India and is considered a sacred place of worship for Lord Shiva.

The most famous temple in Gokarna is the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which is believed to be one of the most ancient temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is said to be the place where Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow, hence the name "Gokarna" which means "cow's ear" in Sanskrit. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Apart from the temple, Gokarna is also known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Gokarna include Kudle Beach, Om Beach, and Half-Moon Beach. These beaches are known for their clear water, soft sand, and beautiful sunsets, and are popular among tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and also take part in various water sports.

The best time to visit Gokarna is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. Visitors should note that the town is a holy place and it is considered respectful to dress modestly when visiting the temples and to avoid wearing revealing clothing on the beaches.

6.Chitrakoot: Chitrakoot is a small town located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the Mandakini River and is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The town is considered one of the most sacred places in India and is said to have been visited by Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxman during their exile, as well as by many other saints and sages.

One of the most famous temples in Chitrakoot is the Kamadgiri Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Rama and is said to be the place where he spent a significant portion of his exile. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Other important temples in Chitrakoot include the Hanuman Dhara Temple, which is said to be the place where Hanuman rested after his journey to Lanka, and the Sphatik Shila Temple, which is said to be the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxman worshipped.

Chitrakoot is also known for its natural beauty, including the waterfalls, caves, and rock formations. The most famous of these is the Ramghat, which is a beautiful stretch of the Mandakini River and is said to be the place where Lord Rama and his companions bathed. Visitors can take a boat ride on the river and see the beautiful rock formations and waterfalls.

The best time to visit Chitrakoot is between October and June. Visitors should note that the town is a holy place and it is considered respectful to dress modestly and to avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting the temples

7.Rann of Kutch: The Rann of Kutch is a vast salt desert located in the westernmost part of India, in the state of Gujarat. The Rann of Kutch is known for its unique and rugged landscape, which includes white salt deserts, salt marshes, and mudflats. The Rann of Kutch is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Indian wild ass, desert fox, and desert cat.

The Rann of Kutch is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The local people, known as the Kutchi, are known for their traditional handicrafts, which include embroidery, tie-dye, and block printing. Visitors can also see traditional mud houses and visit the homes of the local artisans to see their work and learn about their techniques.

The Rann of Kutch is also known for its festivals and fairs, which are held throughout the year. The most famous of these is the Rann Utsav, which is held in the winter months and is a celebration of the local culture, music, and food. Visitors can also see traditional dance and music performances, as well as participate in various activities such as camel safaris, hot air balloon rides, and paragliding.

The best time to visit the Rann of Kutch is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant and the Rann is covered with salt crystals. Visitors should note that the Rann of Kutch is a remote and rugged area, and it is important to be prepared for the harsh conditions. It's important to carry enough water and food, and also to take note of the local customs and etiquette.

8.Coorg: Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a hill station located in the state of Karnataka in southwestern India. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, coffee and spice plantations, and rich cultural heritage.

Coorg is situated on the Western Ghats and is known for its lush green forests, rolling hills, and beautiful valleys. The region is home to several popular tourist spots such as the Raja's Seat, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills, and the Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall. It is also known for its beautiful tea and coffee plantations, which visitors can tour and see the process of how the crops are grown and processed.

Coorg is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The local people, known as the Kodavas, are known for their martial traditions and ancient customs. Visitors can see traditional Kodava houses, known as "Kodava Thakkas", which are made of wood and are built on stilts.

The best time to visit Coorg is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season has ended. Visitors should note that Coorg is a hilly region, and it is important to wear comfortable shoes and carry warm clothing.