10 Hidden Gems in India for a Romantic Escapade with your Partner
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The idea of a romantic escapade with your partner is for the two of you to enjoy each other’s company without any interference from the outside world. Just two people basking in the love they have for each other, far from tourist traps and maddening crowds. India is, no doubt, a romantic country with a historic portfolio of some of the most charming destinations for couples.
However, many of these are now frequented by too many people, leaving very little scope for peace and quiet. There’s also such a thing as too much romance. It can get a little tacky to have too many people roaming hand-in-hand around you. Fret not, here is a list of places in India that are perfect for a dreamy escapade with your partner. They are truly hidden: low on crowd and high on romance!
1. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
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Ditch Dalhousie for its lesser-known cousin, Khajjiar, a Himachali hill station that is touted as mini Switzerland. And why wouldn’t it? The area abounds with lakes, forests and unending meadows that are reminiscent of Swiss topography. Here you will be free to roam and lounge in the arms of your special someone in complete privacy as the place isn’t frequented by too many people.
You can choose to stroll through its pine forests or take a tour around the reflective waters of Khajjiar Lake. Feel like you are in a movie by going for horse rides together in the sloping green fields.
Make memories that’ll last for a lifetime by clicking beautiful and playful photographs with the deodar-laden Dhauladhar Mountains in the background. If you are a couple who loves to trek, then embark on one to Dainkund Peak and embrace the heights of your love. Book romantic Hotel in Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
2. Kavaratti, Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is lesser-known compared to most Indian islands. This ensures that its coastline is filled with virgin beaches offering peaceful and romantic getaways. Its capital, Kavaratti, is home to white-sand beaches and beautiful lagoons. For the couple that loves water sports, this place is paradise. It offers water skiing, wind surfing, scuba diving, parasailing and snorkelling.
There is a special scuba diving program to explore underwater coral reefs that dot Kavaratti’s coastline. For some rest and relaxation, you can head to Minicoy, which is one of the largest lagoons in Lakshadweep. The island boasts beautiful architecture as well. Head to the 17th century Urja Mosque to admire its beautifully carved wooden pillars and ceilings.
3. Pelling, Sikkim
West Sikkim’s Pelling is a town situated approximately 2,150 m above sea level. The entire town serves as a viewing point where you can see spectacular vistas of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga Peak. While all the tourists head to Gangtok, the two of you can be wise and escape to this romantic getaway. You can visit Pelling’s Pemayangtse and Sangachoeling Monasteries, the rock garden and the waterfall sprouting near Rimbi River.
A must-visit is the Khecheopalri Lake, considered holy according to Buddhist culture. The secret about this hidden gem is that it is paradise-on-Earth for trekkers. Is it surprising then that the town serves as a base camp for adventure enthusiasts who wish to scale the heights of West Sikkimese mountains? If you are an adventure-junkie couple, you know this one’s for you. Get best deals on Pelling Hotel bookings.
4. Chikhaldara, Maharashtra
Chilkadhara is a hill station in Maharashtra’s Amravati district. Located far from buzzing crowds, it is a peaceful place locked in time. No wonder animals love calling it their home. If you and your partner are wildlife enthusiasts, head to the Melghat Tiger Reserve which also houses the Gugamal National Park.
This place doesn’t only abound with tigers but it is also home to panthers, sloth bears, sambar, and wild boars. Legend has it that the misty greenery of Chilkaldhara reminded them of England so much that they almost made it the capital of India! Thankfully, they didn’t do that, else we would have lost a hidden romantic gem.
Enjoy each other’s company at the other places of interest here including Hurricane Point, the Pandit Nehru Botanical Gardens, the Tribal Museum and Semadoh Lake.
5. Mararikulam, Kerala
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Here is a true hidden gem in Alleppey. Tired of all the backwater brochures that promise you a romantic holiday? Head to the beach instead. In the very same district is Mararikulam, a village that is home to a pristine beach. It is almost like a secret, not many people visit apart from a few locals and it is home to sparkling white sands adorned with colorful boats.
Swim for hours until it’s time for a spectacular sunset. Several locals have opened up their homes to visitors and it would do you both good to check into one of these and enjoy traditional Marari hospitality. For ultimate rejuvenation, visit the Marari Ayurveda Pachkarma Centre to enjoy a nice couple’s massage together. Get best deals on Mararikulam Hotel here at Cleartrip.
6. Thembang (Dirang), Arunachal Pradesh
Thembang is a tiny hamlet nestled in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It exists almost in a clandestine fashion and we guarantee that most non-Arunachalis have never even heard of it. During the British Raj, Lt. Col. FM Bailey led an expedition to examine the lands between Arunachal Pradesh and Tibet. That was when he chanced upon this ancient village.
Boasting fortified Tibetan Dzong architecture that comes with interesting tales of the Thembang Bapu, this secluded settlement offers not only history, but also natural wonders in abundance. The villagers have set up quaint homestays and most of them still live within its fortified walls, employing many ancient practises.
Head here with your partner to have a romantic escapade in a place where, just like in the case of the love you share, time has changed nothing.
7. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
About three hours from Shillong is Mawlynnong, considered to be Asia’s cleanest village. Squeaky clean lanes, bamboo huts-turned-homestays, treehouses, handicraft stores and Gothic churches are the hallmark of this village. When you saunter around Mawlynnong’s lush green walkways, you will be amazed to see the villagers, both young and old, sweep the pathways and pick up litter, if any.
They didn’t earn such a clean title for nothing. The business of cleanliness works as per a daily roster and everyone’s involved. Adding to the fantastic offerings of this quiet getaway are the presence of living root bridges. Those awesome man-made cum natural wonders that leave visitors in awe.
Make sure you walk on these strong beauties at least once with your partner, where you can pledge unshakeable love for each other that will withstand centuries—just like the bridge.!
8. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
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Move over Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Nainital and Dehra Dun, there’s a romantic gem in Uttarakhand waiting to be explored. Located at an hour’s distance from Chamba is the quaint Dhanaulti, nestled high up in the Tehri Garhwal region of the state.
The hill station is adorned with alpine forests filled with Deodar, Rhododendron and Oak trees. Dhanaulti just lets you be. It inspires romance. When you are not whispering sweet nothings to each other, head to Eco Park, which is a small protected area of Deodar trees. You can also trek from Kaddu Khal village to Surkanda Temple and enjoy magnificent vistas on the way.
End your days with spectacular sunsets that are best viewed from Aloo Khet. Try not to get lost amid the looming Oak forests…or maybe you should because that would make for a truly romantic escapade! Book Hotel in Dhanaulti today and experience Uttarakhand at its best.
9. Shimoga, Karnataka
Approximately five-and-a-half hours from Bengaluru is the city of Shimoga. Situated on the banks of the Tunga River, it is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, earning it the nickname ‘Gateway of Malnad’. Despite being in the lowlands, it is still 569m above sea level and overflows with lush green paddy fields, areca nut and coconut groves.
Some of the notable places to visit include the magnificent Jog waterfalls, the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Shivappa Nayaka’s Palace and the Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari. You can even trek up Gudde Mardi, a small hillock near the city. Shimoga is not a small place, but it is still relatively untouched by most tourists, which is what adds intrigue to its offerings. And boy, are there plenty! Book Hotels in Shimoga , Karnataka
10. Kohima, Nagaland
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Nagaland may be the land of warrior tribes but its people have the most hospitable and friendly hearts. Its capital, Kohima, can be described using words like quaint, charming, old-world, cultured and historic. But, most of all, it is romantic. What else can you expect when it is named after a flower?
Explore the cultural heritage of Nagaland’s 17 tribes at the Kohima Museum, say a prayer with your partner at Kohima Cathedral, trek up Japfu Peak which is Nagaland’s highest mountain, pay your respects at the Kohima War Cemetery, spot animals at the Ntangki Wildlife Sanctuary and just enjoy the misty atmosphere of this hilly city. Kohima is an un-crowded place with a variety of things you can do with your partner. Compare and book Hotels in Kohima for best deals.
It is common perception that India is a crowded nation. However, the country has in its kitty spots that are sheltered from all the hullabaloo. All it needs is some searching and you will be rewarded with quite a few romantic finds. The next time you decide to plan a getaway with your special someone but are deterred by crowded places, you know which list to look up! Better still, if you’re in the mood for one right now, take your pick!
