Here are eight of the most beautiful villages in India:
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Mawlynnong, Meghalaya: Asia’s Cleanest Village
Why Visit Mawlynnong?
- Cleanliness is maintained by the entire community, which makes it a perfect eco-tourism place.
- Home to the iconic Living Root Bridges, bioengineering wonders are made by weaving together rubber tree roots.
- A bamboo watchtower, the Sky Walk, provides panoramic views across the surrounding hills and into neighbouring Bangladesh.
- Immerse yourself in Khasi culture with their traditional stilt houses and warm hospitality.
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Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh: A picture-postcard Himalayan hamlet
Why Visit Ziro?
- The Ziro Valley Music Festivals are a musical paradise filled with independent artists and one of the most beautiful places in the world.
- The Apatani tribe is known for sustainable farming and unique facial tattooing traditions.
- It is surrounded by pine forests and rice fields, making it ideal for trekking and nature walks.
- In the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, birdwatching enthusiasts can spot exotic species.
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Malana, Himachal Pradesh: The Spellbinding Village of Parvati Valley
Why Visit Malana?
- Join the Malana people; they have unique traditions and strict social norms!
- Enclosed by breathtaking snow-capped mountains, it has excellent trekking trails.
- The Chandrakhani Pass trek is one of the treks that takes the tourist to the magnificent valley.
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Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh: Mini Switzerland of India
Why Visit Khajjiar?
- Due to the lush green pastures of Khajjiar Meadows, it serves as a wonderful picnic spot, along with horse riding.
- Khajjiar Nag Temple, dedicated to the serpent god, is an old temple with unique wooden carvings.
- Zorbing, trekking, paragliding, and other adventure sports activities.
- Provides mesmerising views of the Dhauladhar ranges.
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Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh: The Last Village of India
Why Visit Chitkul?
- Offers the most breathtaking river view of the Himalayas.
- Adventure seekers should not miss the Baspa Valley trek.
- Visit old, perfect wooden temples.
- Continue for India’s final dhaba, where warm meals are served to travellers.
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Gokarna, Karnataka: A Peaceful Beach Town
Why Visit Gokarna?
- Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Half Moon Beach are some of the best untouched beaches in India.
- You can explore the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- But unlike Goa, Gokarna is a quieter option with fewer crowds.
- Partakes in activities such as beach trekking, surfing, and yoga retreats.
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Majuli, Assam: Largest River Island in the World
Why Visit Majuli?
- Explore the Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries), which are centuries old and preserve Assamese traditions.
- Visit the island for spectacular sunset views and migratory bird sanctuaries.
- Meet the Mishing tribe, known for their bamboo huts and handloom weaving.
- Get a glimpse of one of the biggest festivals, the Raas Mahotsav, which celebrates the life of Lord Krishna.
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Kumbalangi, Kerala: India’s First Model Tourism Village
Why Visit Kumbalangi?
- Work with local farmers, fishers, and cooks in an authentic Kerala mountain village.
- Go on a canoe trip around the tranquil backwaters.
- Behold the iconic Chinese fishing nets, integral to Kochi’s heritage.
- Experience rich local hospitality by staying in traditional homestays.