8 Places In India Where You Can Literally Touch Clouds!

8 Places In India Where You Can Literally Touch The Clouds!

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1. Darjeeling

source: wikimedia

Known for its scenic beauty, snow-clad Himalayas, and tea gardens, Darjeeling is frequented by tourists from all over the country as well as from around the world. Especially during the summers, the place is a preferred destination due to its pleasant weather.It also offers a spectacular view of the third highest peak in the world which is Mount Kanchenjunga. HolidayIQ traveller Mad Maz says, "The weather was cool and one must visit this place to explore its beauty. The zoological park, rock garden, one of the most beautiful place I have ever visited. Hills are amazing and hilarious. Must go go to Darjeeling and toy train reservation must be done before going there."

2. Coorg

source: Kalidas Pavithran

If a place is known as the 'Coffee Bowl of India' and 'The Switzerland of India', nothing much is really needed after that to convince one about the sheer awesomeness of the said place. HoldidayIQ Traveller Ashok says, "If you love nature and want to breath fresh air and clean your lungs, lush green forests with chirpy birds and rain forests where you can catch up with meditation and reading - Coorg surrounded by coffee plantation is the place. It has waterfalls temples and stillness mist and a hide and seek between rain and sunshine, it's a right choice."

3. Matheran

source: flickr

Matheran is a hill station situated in the Raigad District of Maharashtra. Matheran, which has the designation of being the smallest hill station in India, is situated in the Western Ghats at an average altitude of 800 m above sea level. HolidayIQ Traveller Vishnu says, "Matheran is an awesome get away from the heat and more importantly pollution of a city life. One of the smallest hill stations of the country it is hardly 100 kms from Mumbai. Founded during the British rule for the administrators to escape the Indian summer heat this place becomes heaven during the monsoon. The best part NO VEHICLES ARE ALLOWED INSIDE. So its one of the very few non-polluted popular weekend getaway areas left in the country."

4. Nainital

source: wikimedia

Based around a lake, Nainital is a small town with steep mountains covered with green forests. This beautiful hill station of Uttarakhand has number of sightseeing attractions popular among tourists. Sightseeing in the town includes elevated peaks of Himalayas, lakes and tree-covered hillsides. Amongst numerous lakes within as well as around the hill station, Naini Lake is most popular.HolidayIQ Traveller Manu says, "Nainital, also famous as the "City of Lakes", is one of the best hill stations situated in North India. The place is surrounded by various lakes such as Naini lake, Bhimtal lake, Naukuchiatal Lake, etc. Nainital is like a second home for Delhiites because it is a best short weekend destination near Delhi. One can easily explore the place in 2-3 days. Nainital is an ideal destination for every type of tourists. One can visit there with a family, group or as a couple."

5. Nandi Hills

source: wikimedia

According to the legend, the name Nandi Hills originated from the shape of a hill, which resembles a sleeping bull. During Chola rule, it was known as Ananda Giri, meaning 'The Hill of Happiness'. Moreover, the place is associated with Yoga Nandeeshwara, who performed penance. HolidayIQ Traveller Shinto says, "The hills are awesome. Filled with trees and plants. Away from the pollution of the city. The animals are beautiful. The birds are spectacular. Climbing up the hills was fun. I advise the travelers not to visit during monsoon as it rains a lot. Trekking was fun. Climbing is tiring so bringing a few bottles of water would help."

6. Shimla

source: wikimedia

Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations', the destination is spread over an area of 18 sq km. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh is located in the northwest Himalayas, in the northern part of India.The erstwhile summer capital of the British features dense woodlands, apple orchards and beautiful landscapes. HolidayIQ Traveller Vishal says, "Wonderful experience to visit Shimla in any weather, lots of historic places nearby Shimla. Mall road is heart of city & shopping place, in winters ice skating is main attraction. Famous lakker bazar where you can get items made up of woods. Kalibari temple, jakhu mandir, ridge any many other famous tourist destinations were to see and enjoy and dont forget to eat a himachali local food."

7. Kodaikanal

source: wikimedia

 Kodaikanal is one of the most popular hill stations of Tamil Nadu. Nestled between the Parappar and Gundar Valleys, the town is situated on a plateau above the southern escarpment of the upper Palani Hills.Besides being a famous tourist destination, Kodaikanal is also known for eucalyptus oil, plums, homemade chocolates and pears. In addition, the place is also famous for the Kurinji, the flowers that blossom only once in twelve years. HolidayIQ Traveller Bala, "Overall, our Kodaikanal trip is fun and enjoyable. We visit all places like bryant park, Kurinji temple, Lake, Boat riding, Pillar rock, Sucide point, Guna cave. We never forgot those memories. Also we went palani temple in rope car which my kid like very much. So the trip is traditional, religious and relaxed too. The food in meenakshi bhavan is very good in taste. We eat all day food in Meenakshi bhavan only."

8. Mussoorie

source: flickr

Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Mussoorie is a popular hill station in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. Known as the ‘Queen of Hills’ the quaint town is located at an average altitude of 1,880 meters above sea level. Mussoorie is known for its scenic views, its lush green hills, amazing views of the Doon Valley and Shiwalik ranges on the south. HolidayIQ Traveller Vishal says, "I have been going to Mussoorie for almost 15 years whenever I need a break. Not very deep inside the hills but still very nice view of the mountains and pleasant weather, I just love this place, roam around on the mall road, enjoy chocolates and fruit cream at chic chocolate, mast momos at Kalsang. Visiting Mussoorie is always refreshing for me."

Source: Yahoo!

12 Places That Prove Why No Other Country Is As Beautiful As India

12 Places That Prove Why No Other Country Is As Beautiful As India

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1. Yumthang Valley

source: wikimedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller Amitra Kar from Chennai shares, “If you are on a trip to Sikkim, this is the a visit. The vast expanse of this hilly terrain among ice-capped mountains not only mesmerises your visual senses but also provides you an experience which is truly out of the world. We were here during the first week of May when the very beautiful Geranium starts blooming and cover the entire spectrum in the hues of purple. Do watch out for the Yaks grazing around lazily. A stream of wonderful winding River flows gently which adds to the beauty. Get a deep breath and a 360 degree view to feel the nature which leaves you speechless with its pristine beauty and scenic grandeur.”

2. Munnar

source: flickr - Jakub Michankow

HolidayIQ Traveller Purna from Bangalore shares, “Greenery greenery everywhere. Beautiful tea plantations, lakes, hills, activities, Munnar has it all. It is a perfect destination for couples, family and individuals be it for honeymoon or relaxing or adventure or just nature watch. The mesmerizing views of the hills are just like wallpaper pics providing the perfect snap. Good food and courteous behaviour of the locals adds to the joy 

3. Radhanagar Beach

source: wikimedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller Vinita Vanjani fro, Hyderabad shares, “Lush green on one side, sun going off to bed made of rocky mountains, blue jelly fish, the restful quietude, a small Shiva temple in the midst of wood, the place makes its way to the top of anyone's choice. Place to enjoy with family, just couples enjoying the bliss of the moment, kids frolicking with the teasing sea waves, my husband trying to save the blue jellyfish, me trying to capture in shutter the tiny crabs running to their hidings, a poet savoring his poetry, or a sketcher trying his talent. Wow! Unforgettable moments. People who like to stay back in the dark can catch sights of glowing plankton, and mesmerized by their nature and beauty. Best time to visit is sunset.”

4. Jog Falls

source: flickr - Raghu Jana

HolidayIQ Traveller Prasanna Kumar from Mysore shares, “Jog falls is one of the must visit places in Karnataka especially in winter season. Jog Falls situated around 100 km from Shimoga is a very beautiful place to hangout with friends and also family. Transportation facilities are good from Shimoga bus stand as you will find a lot of govt. And private buses to Jog Falls. Though visitors are banned to go down the steps still its worth a visit to this Falls because of its immense beauty. In rainy season you may not get a clear view of the Falls due to heavy fog but still one can enjoy the beauty of it and the atmosphere itself makes you enjoy the trip.”

5. Matheran

source: wikimedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller Yusuf Gandhi from Ahmedabad shares, “It would be fair to say that Matheran is the king of hill stations. It's vehicle free roads make it a pollution free hill. Everywhere you'll find is a horse ride and a hand cart. I must say the best season to visit Matheran is when it showers i.e in the month of June, after 18th of June. Amazing to touch clouds, when you open your cottage windows all you will see is clouds crossing you cottage. You will feel that you are in heaven. One must visit at least once to Matheran.”

6. Gulmarg

source: flickr - Basharat Alam Shah

HolidayIQ Traveller Omkar Garg from Gurgaon shares, “It is a true paradise on earth, one can find snow here in main summer season. Maggie and tea here are must have and one must pay the visit Gulmarg gondola, although it is a bit costly but believe me it is worth every penny total paisa vasool, skiing and sliding are some of the mist enjoyed sports played here.”

7. Almora

source: flickr - Rajarshi MITRA

HolidayIQ Traveller Sabyasachi Rayc from Delhi shares, “Some say that Almora has somehow lost the story as far tourists go. But has it really? Not to me at least. It has definitely lost it to the typical honeymooners and weekend hill-invaders, who intend to consider Almora more as a pass-over or en-route crossover. Its more than 500 years old. It had its history, its legends, its paved roads, heavily carved wooden houses some of which still exists! f you had wanted to really see what an Alpine village looks like without getting your passport stamped. Well Almora is the place for you. Check out the unhindered view of the old town gently sloping down the sides of the hills with snow capped peaks in the back-ground. Enjoy a lazy sun-down at Bright-end corner. Take a stroll down the old Sadar Bazar. Take a peep-in of the Museums. There will be something that will be your personal favourite in this town, after all everyone ranging from Swami Vivekananda to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore could not have been so wrong about this place! All of them came here repeatedly and stayed on for long periods of time.”

8. Sandakphu

source: flickr - Bappaditya Dasgupta

HolidayIQ Traveller Neha Thakur from Bangalore shares, “It is the highest peak of West Bengal. It had a wonderful scenic beauty. There is a small village on the top of the peak and the people there, are very friendly and cooperative.”

9. Key Monastery

source: wikimedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller Shefali Rattan from New Delhi shares, “Situated at a distance of 30 minutes from kaza, this place is 1 km above kee village. It houses some 400 monks of all ages, it has a guesthouse for tourists in front of its main gate and the monastery itself offers room for overnight stay. The structure which is the main attraction of this monastery is breathtaking, it reminds you of buildings in Leh Ladakh region. The monks are helpful and take good care of their guests. I stayed there overnight and ate with them in their kitchen and the view is absolutely amazing from here must must visit if in that area.”

10. Nubra Valley

source: flickr - Aayush Iyer

HolidayIQ Traveller Pradyumna Bn from Bangalore shares, “The greenery in Nubra valley makes it special when compared to other places in Ladakh. Most of the places in Ladakh are dry or snow covered land(yet beautiful). Nubra valley gives you amazing experience that can't be expressed in words.” HolidayIQ traveller VRV from Mumbai  adds, “A very unique place with towering mountains, water streams and rivers, sand dunes and double hump camels - all unimaginable together but it does exist in Nubra. Also you climb the world's highest motorable pass at Khardung La, with beautiful snow covered mountains/glaciers.”

11. Rann Of Kutch

source: flickr - dpbirds

HolidayIQ Traveller Harsiddh Dave from Gandhidham shares, “The great Rann of Kutch is one of the most beautiful Sightseeing place in Gujarat. It is completely covered by white salt which makes it most unique place to visit.”

12. Pangong Lake

source: wikimedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller Suresh L r from Bangalore shares, “Situated at 14, 000 ft (approx. ) high, this lake is really amazing. One will not get tired of watching this lake where the water keeps changing its color based on the sun rays / clouds. However, again a word of caution here is please ensure you are properly clothed as there will be very high velocity of winds blowing across with possibility of sudden snow falls as well. The view and the experience is unforgettable and worth all the effort one takes to reach this lake.”

Source: Yahoo!

10 Spectacularly Scenic Roads You Wouldn't Believe Are Actually In India!

Zuluk Loops

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1. NH 55 - Hill Cart Road - Siliguri to Darjeeling

source: wikipedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller S Rana says, “We started our journey at morning 7.30 with our own car, we took Rohini route, after crossing Siliguri first we saw the beauty of Sukhna, then within a hour we reached Rohini, what a beauty we found on the way of Mirik, there at Muskan Dhaba we took our breakfast with so called momo, then within half an hour we reached Karseong, from there weather is starting to change, Kurseong a small town but beautiful to see after Kurseong within one hour we crossed Sonada, and then within 20 minutes we reached Ghum and after 25 minutes we reached at Darjeeling, on that way we discovered the beauty of nature, how quickly weather can change, the simplicity of local peoples, and of course wonderful road. Return journey we took the Pankha Bari route, this is also full of scenic beauty, but it is slightly narrow compare to Rohini route, but we want to experience that route and we want to visit Makai Bari Tea Estate.”

2. Kalimpong to Zuluk

source: holidayiq.com

Get your adrenaline pumping on this exciting road trip from Kalimpong to Zuluk! There could be nothing beeter than driving on the Zuluk Loops. The road through Zuluk makes almost 32 hairpin turns to reach Lungthung, which makes it a unique engineering feat. HolidayIQ Traveller Shouvik Chowdhury says, “It was an awesome trip to the place that falls on the silk route - Zuluk. The silk route bends, clear peaks, Kanchenjunga and the snowfall made my trip to Zuluk a mesmerising one!” HolidayIQ Traveller Avijit Maji says, “An excellent drive! The lovely Zuluk Loops, Gnathang Valley, Padamchen, Kupup Memencho Lake and the Silk Route bends.”

3. Chalakudy to Valparai - Western Ghats

source: wikimedia.org

The famous Athirapally and Vazhachal waterfalls can be spotted on the route. The fact that the Western ghats is one of the most biodiversity hotspots of the world is also great because one may find a lot! HolidayIQ Traveller Vignesh Prasanna says, “Valparai - The cherrapunji of South India! It's a heavenly land with no pollution. Valparai is situated in the anamalai mountain range. It's a small town and it doesn't mean only a single town. It stands majestically with Green Spread Mountains and forest all around. Moreover it is filled with greenish Tea fields and a scenic beauty that spreads around which is a great treat for your eyes. We a group of six people started from Coimbatore in a car and a bike at 7:00 AM. We reached Pollachi by 8:00 AM and had our breakfast in a vegetarian hotel(Amuthasurabhi). We started from pollachi at 9:30 AM and passed through Aliyar Dam, Tiger Falls, Monkey Falls(Famous one). We halted at Attakathi for a tea. Then we proceeded to Valparai. Occasionally we stopped at few places to take pics. The scenic beauty was awesome and it will eventually make you click some awesome pics with the magnificent mountains behind you.”

4. Koli Mallai Ghat Road - Bangalore to Koli Hills

source: blogspot.com

HolidayIQ Traveller Sureshbabu says, “I traveller from Bangalore to Koli hills by Nano. It was amazing. One should experience the ride since, it is a small car, which is easy to drive in the Ghat section and gives good mileage. Nowadays lots of hotels on the road, I stop for breakfast at Shoolagiri Mcde, Saravana Bhavan after Krishnagiri and lunch at Salem or at Rasipuram opp Bus Stop.”

5. NH 1D - Srinagar to Leh

source: wordpress.com

Its rugged appearance has rightly earned it the title of being 'the Indian Grand Canyon'. HolidayIQ Traveller Bhadresh Shah says, “Started early from Srinagar, we have been stopped by local police authority as Amarnath Yatra was also scheduled on same date. It was our hard time to convince authority that we are not Amarnath Yatri but going to Leh via Kargil. On the way it was very scenic and beautiful place has come where we have stopped and enjoy. Our driver tells that you have to cross Zozila Pass before 15 hours other wise you have to stay at Sonmarg. We have started our journey to Kargil via Zozilla Pass and draws. To cross Zozilla is also unique experience as rain has made earth wet and tyres are slipping out. Way to Kargil we have seen Kargil war memorial and passing through dress which is world coldest inhabited area. Choosing journey by road instead of air is a lifetime experience. Also you have time to make yourself slowly adjust at high altitude and may not create health problem, which is otherwise have high chance of breathing problem.”

6. Yamuna Expressway - Noida to Agra

source: wikipedia.org

HolidayIQ Traveller Poonam Rajani says, The Expressway from Noida is made brilliantly and is for driving in speed. The scenery is good, road condition very nice and time just fly's by. I would recommend starting early in the morning from Delhi to avoid morning traffic and make good time. Carry something to munch on as there are not many options along the way. But this is the best way to reach Agra from Delhi.” Adds HolidayIQ Traveller Amar Nidhi, “We drove through Greater Noida and then through Yamuna Expressway. I started early morning from Delhi at 5. 30 and reached Agra at 8. 30 Am. It was a very comfortable and stress free journey.The route has tolls that charge INR 360 from Greater Noida to Agra. The road is excellent and has provisions for restaurants, restrooms and fuel en-route.”

7. NH 3 - Leh-Manali Highway

source: holidayiq.com

HolidayIQ Traveller Guramrit shares his experience, “I loved to visit Leh via road from Manali. It was a wonderful experience to pass through many passes like Changla Pass, Baralanchla Pass, Lachulangla Pass, Khardungla Pass and many more. Khardungla pass is the highest motorable road and is 39 km from Leh. Best time to visit is early in the morning as afterwards there truck traffic begins. When we reached pass at 7:30 am, it was freezing cold there and could not stand there for much time. But, enjoyed a lot. Baralacha Pass was very dangerous pass and there was snow everywhere and a thin road to pass. On the way to Leh sometimes we crossed water on the road and sometimes snow. And was the best experience I could have ever had.”

8. SH 17 - Munnar via Udumalpet Road

source: panoramio.com

Passing through the Eravikulam National park and Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary, this route promises a lot for you to observe when taking a drive. HolidayIQ Traveller N srinivasan says, “Enroute we enjoyed the sceneries and the falls and loved the tea estate views and the road and dhabas were great. We had the binocular view in some of the curves which is to be seen.” Adds HolidayIQ Traveller Manji G, “It’s better to take the Udamalpet route for Munnar. We changed the plan well-early to travel via Udumalpet. Thanks to Tea Resort management as they mentioned earlier about the road condition. Better to have 2 driving persons in trip, because of long trip. We could not see any elephants on the way. Maybe we were unlucky.”

9. Mumbai-Pune Expressway

source: holidayiq.com

HolidayIQ Traveller Karan Veer says, “On a night we made a plan to visit Lonavala the next day by our car, next afternoon we started from Mumbai in our car, we had a small halt in Panvel to buy some snacks and headed towards Pune Expressway, it was in a month of September it was raining in between as we get on to Expressway it was cloudy, and awesome view in front of us, crossing through huge tunnels, and with a pleasurable driving experience we reached Lonavala, Mumbai- Pune Expressway a real express highway in India.”

10. Rohtang Pass

source: media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com

Rohtang Pass is 51 km from Manali on highway to Keylong/Leh. The panoramic and spectacular mountain view will simply take your breathe away. HolidayIQ Traveller Jayath says, “The drive through the mountains was a breathtaking experience! Unforgettable !” Adds HolidayIQ Traveller Sumith, “As you reach on Rohtang Pass, you will discover the snow everywhere as temperature dips drastically after 2pm. It gets closed in November due to snowfall.”

Source: Yahoo!

We Bet You Haven’t Even Heard Of These 18 Exotic Destinations In India

Simlipal National Park, Odisha

1. Tinchuley, Darjeeling

Source: trekearth.com

HolidayIQ Traveller Partha De Sarkar from Kolkata shares, “The beautiful Tinchuley village is 30 km away from Darjeeling. We drove down to Tinchuley in two hours through magnificent mountainous countryside. Location was selected away from the main road to avoid too many flocking and destroying its ambiance. The village had prospect for creating rock climbing facilities, caving in near by caves and bird watching. Nature is bountiful here. Hills are covered with green pine and oak trees. The gurgling Teesta runs through a narrow gorge. Rainfall in upper reaches creates waterfalls when it rains.”

2. Mainpat, Ambikapur

Source: ticketgoose.com

Mainpat is known as the 'Shimla of Chhattisgarh'. Viewed from Mehta Point and Pharphatia, the valley and hills of Mainpat offers beautiful waterfalls, like Tiger Point where tigers roam and Machali or Fish Point as the river here was known for a type of fish. A strange sight includes the bouncing swap of Jaljali and charming Chota Jharan? tucked away in a pocket of jungle with a small waterfall with beautiful scenic views. Other notable sights are the beautiful Buddhist Temples on this remote jungle plateau and attractions such as Bageecha and Zalzala as well as much more.

3. Daringbadi, Odisha

Source: incredibleodisha.org

Situated at a height of 915 m in Kandhamal district, Daringbadi is gifted with natural bounties like pine jungles, coffee gardens and beautiful valleys. It has thick rain forests with wild animals, and is an ideal summer resort. HolidayIQ Traveller Sumeet Patel from Jharsuguda shares, “Awesome place, cool and calm. Best time to visit is winter to experience the hill station type feeling in Odisha. Areas near by are worth watching with many waterfalls, sunset point and wildlife sanctuaries. Nights are more calm with no sound at all. Best place for a techie staying in Bhubaneswar for a relaxing weekend.”

4. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

0Source: flickr/soumyajit pramanick

HolidayIQ Traveller Nishit Jain from Mumbai shares, “We left Lachen at 4 am to visit Lake Gurudongmar. It took us 5 hours of driving (on a really bad road) to reach, but it was worth every minute. The drive is beautiful. If you are lucky and have a clear sky (like we did), you see brown and white mountains on all four sides with a deep blue overhead. Parts of the journey seemed surreal; you are brought back to reality by the few army bases you cross en route. I've never seen a frozen lake before and it is a sight worth beholding. Nestled in between large snow capped peaks, the lake can't be spotted from a distance at all. You chance upon it suddenly and the first view takes your breath away. It's huge. A solid white mass! And you can walk and jump on it, frightfully at first and with abandon after.” 

5. Dharchula, Uttarakhand

Source: holidayiq.com

Dharchula is a small hilly town in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. In Hindi ‘Dhar’ means peak and ‘Chula’ means stove, and since this hill town is shaped like a stove, the name is apt. Dharchula is around 90 km from the Pithoragarh district, and is enroute the famous pilgrimage, Kailash Mansarovar.

6. Garamur, Majuli

Source: placesiwannavisit.wordpress.com

Garmur is among the chief attractions of Majuli, which is counted among the holy seats. Other prominent holy seats in the destination are Auniati, Dakshin Path and Kamalabari. During the establishment, separate structures were built for different purposes. The vaishnavite centre founded by Lakshmi Kanta Deva preserves ancient artefacts and articles, Bartop being the most prominent among these. Raasleela is performed with great zeal and enthusiasm during autumn. Garmur can easily be reached from Jorhat Nimatighat, Dhokuakhana and Luit-Khabolughat. 

7. Pelling, Sikkim

Source: flickr/ Santanu Chandra

HolidayIQ Traveller Koustuv Bhattacharya from Delhi shares, “If anyone wants to see Kanchenjunga closely from the window of his room, I think it's the right place. Very excellent and close view can be seen from here. I visited Pelling on and from 14th to 16th April, 2015. The picturesque view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kabru etc were seen clearly from the very beginning of the day from our view rooms at hotel Simvo. Nature lovers should not miss this place. I visited west Sikkim from 12th to 16th April 2015 including the wonderful destinations like Rinchenpong, Pelling and Ravangla. The first day was sorrowful to us for it was raining all the day and sky was cloudy. But from the second day, nature began to show her beauty by the grace of God. Local sightseeing from Pelling like Kanchenjunga falls, Rimbi falls, Changey falls, Singshore bridge, Dentam valley, Khecheopalri lake etc can not be missed.” 

8. Phawngpui, Aizawl

Source: tourismmizoram.gov.in

Phawngpui, the Blue Mountain of Mizoram, is a highly revered peak, considered to be the abode of the gods. Phawngpui peak is the highest mountain peak in Mizoram, rising about 2157 m. It is famous for orchids and rhododendrons. With spectacular trees and flowers of all colours, Phawngpui presents a fairytale view of the blue hazed hills, and vales unfolding below.     

9. Janjehli, Himachal Pradesh

Source: flickr/ vinod bahal

Located inside the district of Mandi, the journey to Janjehli Valley is an enchanting experience. The valley is at an height of 2150 metres in Thunag tehsil and called a trekkers paradise. Laden with open grounds with lush green meadows, it bears a striking resemblance to Gulmarg. Janjehli offer numerous trails for trekkers to explore this beautiful valley and along with some wildlife sanctuaries.

10. Champhai, Mizoram

Source: wikimedia

The road to Champhai is not for the weak. The journey is a grueling 8-hour mountain drive with multiple blind curves to tackle. Famed for its colourful tribal traditions, orchids and beautiful surroundings, Champhai has several hamlets that are dotted with monuments and monoliths. HolidayIQ Traveller Dolly Jha from Gurgaon shares, “Champhai, which was the coldest place we went to in Mizoram, seems to be the food bowl of the state. Paddy fields can be seen everywhere on this mountain spot. It is a village-cum-town where you can spend all your time walking around leisurely watching nature and exploring the market. We’d gone there in November and it was very cold there then. It was colder than Aizawl, Zokhawthar and Saitual.” 

11. Chakrata, Dehradun

Source: wikimedia

Chakrata is known for its beautiful and pollution free atmosphere. With green valleys and dense forests of conifers, rhododendrons and oaks, Chakrata is an ideal retreat from city life. Beautiful landscapes attract nature lovers, trekkers, bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts for exploring the small hill resort. HolidayIQ Traveller Kshitij Deopa from Delhi shares, “Chakrata is unlike any other hill station, ice paved roads, small tea stalls and even less hotels. Peaceful journey incredible views and the road less travelled are the synonyms for Chakrata. Chakrata and the direct long romantic road to Mussoorie are places one must visit. It is 50 km from Dehradun in a very extreme end, food is normally available on the stalls. The view of ice caped mountains can be seen from Chakrata. It is a must visit place.”

12. Simlipal, Odisha

Source: wikimedia

Vast expanses of jungle and pristine nature. Simlipal is home to the Simlipal National Park and Barehipani Falls. Originally an elephant reserve and a hunting ground for the royal family, Simlipal was declared a tiger reserve in 1956. HolidayIQ.com Traveller Sabyasachi from Baripada says, “It is an ideal place to spend time with family and friends. Places like these need to be popularised to attract more tourists.” 

13. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh

Source: wikimedia

The Gandikota fort has a few temples, a granary, a masjid, a palace and a few more structures inside its walls. The temples are particularly known for their architecture, composed of many fine sculptures and carvings in the Vijayanagara style. HolidayIQ traveller Arindam Halder shares, “If you are looking to go to an unusual place which will blow you away then Gandikota is the place that you are looking for. A 13th century fort beside the Penna river in the state of Andhra Pradesh, which is surrounded by the Eramala range of hills. Surrounded by a deep valley and impassable hills, with massive boulders of red granite and the river Pennar that flows about 300 ft. Below on the west and northern sides. This is also popularly known as the grand canyon of India.”

14. Samsing, Darjeeling

Source: wikimedia

Samsing is a small village in the area of Dooars, which is located in the Kalimpong subdivision of Darjeeling district in West Bengal. Famous for its landscape, green tea gardens, hills and forests it’s a perfect place to spend some quality quiet time alone. HolidayIQ Traveller Dhritiman Baidya from Kolkata shares, ”Samsing is a wonderful quiet place, if you want to enjoy the nature stay there for 2 days, the scenic beauty if awesome, get a lots of fresh air.”

15. Dundlod, Rajasthan

Source: rajasthantourism.gov.in

Dundlod village is part of Shekhawati region, which comes under Jhunjhunu District of the state of Rajasthan. This small village resembles an open art gallery, which comprises different types of forts, havelis and baolis. 

16. Galtaji, Jaipur

Source: flickr/photographingtravis

HolidayIQ A S from Hyderabad shares, “Very old temple situated about 10 km from Jaipur city. There is also a huge kund or water tank with natural water springs, we saw a lot of devotees taking a holy dip over here. A local told us it is also known as monkey temple as a famous monkey tribe lived here once upon a time. As it is surrounded by hills this temple gets an exotic look.”

17. Pangot, Nainital

Source: flickr/gkrishna

HolidayIQ Traveller Aritro Dasgupta from Gurgaon shares, “Pangot is what one can categorize as heaven on earth, an idyllic destination. Pangot is actually one of those remaining untouched spots of natural beauty. Ideal for bird watching early morning. There are some good resorts in this area. As the place is so remote, the costs are a bit high. One can view the majestic panoramic view from Pangot.”

18. Mansa, Punjab

Source: wikimedia

It's a major attraction of the district is the Samadhi of Bhai Gurdas, which is frequented by tourists. HolidayIQ Traveller Pranav Goyal from Mansa shares, “This is a very nice place to be visited and I recommend everyone to visit here. The food over here is very nice. The shops, the hotels everything was good.” 

Source: Yahoo!