We are sure you would agree with us when we say that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world that we know. The travel and tour industry has been one of the most severely impacted industries globally and it is no different in India. People will now seek to explore places that facilitate social distancing. In this blog, we will share with you 5 best and unexplored places to visit in north India after the lockdown.
New habits and measures have emerged to become the ‘new normal’. In the weeks gone by, the government announced relaxations in the lockdown measures and we all are hopeful that in the weeks to come, there will be more relaxation in the lockdown. This would mean looking out for unexplored places that do not feature large crowds and yet offer experiences that will create memories to last forever.
Let’s take a look:
1. Doodpathri, Kashmir
Doodpathri or literally translated to ‘Valley of Milk” is a pristine hill station in Kashmir, 42 km from Srinagar, and is situated at an altitude of 8,960 ft above sea level. As per the local legend, the famous Kashmiri saint Sheikh Ul Alam prayed here. The water flowing through the lush green meadows have a milky white appearance from a distance and remains cold even in summers. You can experience a diversity of multi-coloured flowers while you holiday here. Not to forget, the famous Tosamaidan is in proximity to this destination. The bowl-shaped alpine valley features snow-covered mountains and meadows of Deodar and Pine. In summers, you can also witness daisies, buttercups, and forget-me-nots making Doodhpathri one of the ideal places to visit in north India in summers. Additionally, the most convenient way to visit Doodhpathri is by flying into Srinagar and then hiring a cab. Also ensure that you are exploring the vicinity of Doodhpathri such as Dishkal, Palmaidan, Tangnar, and Mujpathri.
2. Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean
Continuing in Jammu and Kashmir, if you are looking for adventure-filled weekend getaways from Delhi, I would strongly recommend visiting this destination. The scenic tourist destination features India’s highest ropeway in terms of ground clearance hovering over scenic lush evergreen forest. Additionally, you can also experience various adventure activities like tubing sledge, magic carpet, and zig-zag zipline. For the foodie in you, Skyview Patnitop or Patnitop Gondola as it is locally called has a gamut of dining options to offer. The vast open spaces will allow you not only to enjoy the outdoors but also to make the most out of social distancing. This destination is located 2 hours away from Jammu city and can be accessed throughout the year. This largest Indo-French mountain infrastructure project of India promises something for everyone and is one the best places to visit in north India.
3. Hemis National Park
Located in Ladakh, Hemis National Park is the only national park in India north of the Himalayas and is the largest notified protected area in India. The national park is famous for spotting one of the rarest animals in nature – the snow leopard. You can also observe the golden eagle, Himalayan Snow Cock, Eurasian brown bear, and the Tibetan wolf. This unique park offers several routes for trekking from mid-June to October. You can also witness the Indus river meandering north of this national park. However, the best chances of witnessing snow leopards would be in late December-January. While you are here, you can also explore the 400-year old Hemis Monastery.
4. Khirsu
Situated 92 km from Dehradun in Uttarakhand, this less explored hill station is set at an altitude of 1700 m. The highlight of this picturesque destination is the 300 km panoramic view of the Himalayas. Some of the mountain peaks visible from here are Nanda Devi, Panchchuli, Nandakot, and Trishul. The dense forest of Pine, Deodars, and Oaks cover the pathways filled with mushrooms, apple trees, herbs, wildflowers and so much more making it one of the most exotic holiday destinations in India. You can also engage in trekking and mountain biking while you are here.
5. Kalpa
One of the most serene villages in the old Hindustan Tibet Road in Himachal Pradesh, Kalpa is situated 260 km from Shimla. This exotic destination has all the virtues of a heritage village. While you explore this hamlet which came into prominence under the rule of the British government, don’t forget to explore Narayan-Nayani temples and Hu-Bu-Ian-Car Gompa Buddhist monastery founded in the 11th century AD. According to the local legend, Kalpa is the winter home of Lord Shiva. The highlight of this scenic village has to be the view of Kinner Kailash mountain during sunrise. The best way of reaching Kalpa is by hiring a cab from Shimla and driving through the picturesque landscape of the road to this village.
So there you have it, 5 best And unexplored places to visit in north India. We hope you enjoy your next trip.