If you like to charter into uncharted territories, exploring the unexplored then there’s no dearth of such destinations in our vast and diverse country. India is one country that could take an entire lifetime to be explored and never cease to surprise and to begin with here are 10 destinations that haven’t seen a heavy influx of explorers yet.

#1 DAMRO, ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Looking for a secret route to heaven? Find it here in Damro which is the base to the longest hanging bridge (1,000 feet). Damro would charm you with its laidback lifestyle, suspended bridges, bamboo houses, the vast expanse of meadows and grasslands – a perfect rural getaway from the hustle bustle of city life.

#2 SANDAKPHU, DARJEELING

One of the most dangerous offbeat places in India, Sandakphu is the highest peak in Darjeeling which offers a mind-blowing view of four of the five highest peaks of Mt. Everest. Doesn’t sound dangerous, does it? Sandakphu means the height of poison plant and it is near the peak where you will find a poisonous wolfsbane plant.

#3 MOKOKCHUNG, NAGALAND

For an experience of a lifetime, you must visit the rustic and tribal Mokokchung that is home to the Ao tribe. The cultural capital of Nagaland is famous for its rich culture, hospitality and traditions. There are too many things and places to visit starting with Changkikong Range, Langpangkong, Fusen Kei and Mongzu Ki Caves, Changtongya, Longkhum Village, Longritzu Lenden Valley, Tangkum Marok Spring, Mokokchung District Museum, Mokokchung Park and so much more.

#4 SPITI, HIMACHAL PRADESH

With a challenging personality, Spiti is a hidden treasure located in the high altitudes of Himachal Pradesh. Whether you are looking for some solace or some great adventure, the stark mountains of Spiti is where you should be heading. Beautiful villages, ancient monasteries, trekking, camping, mountain biking, go explore.

#5 SHOJHA, HIMACHAL PRADESH

Simplicity at its best, a lovely hill village in the lap of the Himalayas that is pristine and untouched. Beautiful temples made out of wood, undulating slopes, the Dhauladhar and Himalayas all make a feast for the eyes in this quaint little town.

#6 VELAS, MAHARASHTRA

A quaint village with a heavy responsibility! The people of Velas have taken upon them to protect and nurture the endangered species of the Olive Ridley turtles. Watch a life unfurling right in front of your eyes when these little creatures hatch out of their shells. The annual turtle festival is one of the best times to visit Velas. A one-of-its-kind event, get mesmerized by the tiny turtles venturing into the sea right after hatching.

#7 DHANUSHKODI, TAMIL NADU

Be prepared for an eerie feeling when you step into the ghost town of Dhanushkodi as you visit the ruins of the church and railway station. It was in 1964 that a cyclone washed out the entire railway line leading to the Pamban Island station along with 100 passengers who got washed away into the sea. Freaky, isn’t it?

#8 PATAN, GUJARAT

The former capital of the Chandva rulers dates back to 745 AD and is the latest addition to India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Beautiful step walls, mesmerizing lakes, lovely temples with Rani ki Vav being the most prominent one, Patan is also famous for the beautiful Patola Sarees.

#9 ZIRO, ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Blessed with natural beauty, bliss and amazing experiences, Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh is the home to Apatani tribe that welcomes all with open arms. Puffy white clouds floating on the horizon, rice fields, green patches, great people, local food and the amazing Ziro Music festival.

#10 GANDIKOTA, ANDHRA PRADESH

The Grand Canyon of India, Gandikota is a beautiful village with forts, temples and even a Jama Masjid but what’s best about this unexplored destination is the Pennar River cutting through the canyon.

India is a cove of treasures and will unfold its mysteries as you dig deeper. Wander often to wonder always!