When it comes to holidaying in India, both big and small cities tend to get the equal amount of attention, such is the all-encompassing beauty that our country has.
With vastly different geographical landscape, you will find some of the prettiest villages in any corner of the country.
Here's a list of some of the most beautiful hamlets that would take you by surprise.
Khireshwar, Maharashtra
Nestled amidst the beautiful Sahyadris, Khireshwar is a charming village known for its picturesque setting, verdant greenery, and traditional houses where one can receive the warm hospitality of villagers.
Visit the famed Kalu waterfall, Harishchandreshwar temple, Kedareshwar cave, which are in close proximity. Eat delicious authentic Maharashtrian cuisine like pithla bhakri, thecha, puran poli or just relax at one of welcoming homestays with stunning scenery all around you.
How to reach: The road journey from Mumbai to Khireshwar, via Kalyan, is about 140 km. The nearest railhead is Igatpuri at a distance of 100 km. Taxis and buses are available from the station to reach Khireshwar village.
Majuli, Assam
Majuli is a river island, the largest in the world, in the mighty Brahmaputra river and is often referred to as one of the loveliest sights to visit in Assam. Majuli houses many small villages and collectively it became the first island to be made a district in India.
Here's your chance to interact and learn more about the indigenous community that lives here, visit their traditional houses, explore farm fields, walk along or swim in the river and canals, and enjoy some delicious local food.
How to reach: To get to Majuli island from Jorhat, take the ferry across the river. Board a ferry from Nimati Ghat in Jorhat district; it's about an hour-long ride.
Sankri, Uttarakhand
This quaint, little hamlet is a big lure for anyone seeking a Himalayan hideaway. Surrounded by astounding peaks and lush valleys, Sankri is haven for mountain lovers and in winters it turns into a snowy wonderland.
The small village also serves as the base camp for some really popular treks in Uttarakhand like Kedarkantha peak, Har Ki Dun valley, Phulara ridge walk and thus it always is bustling with both nature and adventure seekers.
How to reach: Sankri is well connected by road, with taxis and buses being easily available from Dehradun, about 200 km away.
Pakhiralay, West Bengal
Pakhiralay is a well-preserved village island within the Sunderban Tiger Camp and is a stunning place for nature lovers for bird spotting, wildlife exploration. The location is also known for its awe-inspiring sunsets and sunrises that you can sit and enjoy from the river banks.
You can also explore fish farming, the veggies fields, boating inside the mangroves forest.
How to reach: The nearest railhead is Canning town (about 60 km from Kolkata) at a distance of 30 km. Take a local bus or auto to the Gadkhali ferry terminal and from there take an hour-long boat ride to Pakhiralay. There might be a bit of waiting at the ferry point, but boats run at regular intervals.
Virupapur Gaddi, Karnataka
There's a striking village situated across the Tungabhadra river in Hampi and the vibe here is laidback in contrast to temples and monuments of the historical town of Hampi.
Explore the region's lush green paddy fields, go for coracle boat rides in Sanapur lake and invigorating hikes to the rocky hills to catch a mesmerising sunset.
How to reach: Take a bus or autorickshaw from Hospete, the major railway station, which is about 30 km away. Alternatively, take a ferry from Virupaksha temple in Hampi, which takes only half hour.
Wahkhen, Meghalaya
Tucked away in the East Khasi Hill district of Meghalaya, Wahkhen is a village with a postcard-perfect setting, surrounded by hills, streams, farms and forests. Stroll through the village and explore the farm fields, dotted with grazing sheep, numerous bamboo bridges, fruit and veggie plantations. Oh, the freshest produce and yummy local dishes will keep you tummy-happy!
Wahkhen is also known for its rich music culture and it boasts some cute music schools that teach music to children.
This gorgeous hilly village is also the base camp for the famed bamboo trail to Mawrynkhang Rock which ist emerging as tourist hotspot in Meghalaya.
How to reach: Wahkhen is at a distance of 48 km from the state capital Shillong and is easily accessible by road.
Sissu, Himachal Pradesh
Sissu is what I would call an absolute gem of place in Himachal Pradesh thanks to its undeniable natural beauty. It has got lakes, river, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and enchanting forest cover. Also, the awesome hospitality of locals is sure to lighten your soul and spirits.
Enough reasons for some serene me-time in the Himalayas, right?
How to reach: Sissu can be reached by road from Manali via Atal Tunnel. The distance is about 40 km.
Aru, Kashmir Valley
Towering mountains, milky white streams and rivers, lush meadows and sweet little houses make the remote ethereal village of Aru one of the go-to sites in the Kashmir valley.
You have a range of activities to choose from, like fishing, bird spotting, hiking, star-gazing and much more to keep you entertained in the company of unspoiled nature.
How to reach: Reach Pahalgam from Srinagar, which is about 90 km away. Then take a taxi or shared vehicle from Pahalgam to the Aru Valley, which is just 12 km away.
Astranga fishing village, Odisha
Astranga is a well-preserved village dominated by the local fishermen community and it is quite an experience to witness their ways of life in this village.
Visit the beaches, explore the quiet canals, stroll through the lanes and tuck into some hearty fish meals.
End your day with a heart-warming sunset as you glide through the waters in one of the fishermen's canoe. Don't forget to bring your camera!
How to reach: Astaranga is well-connected by road from Bhubaneswar, which is located at a distance of 75 km.
Ullada, Tamil Nadu
Close to the famous hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu, Ullada has been recognised as 'Best Tourism Village' last year and rightly so.
The villagers have taken the initiative to maintain the cultural essence and environmental sustainability of the region. The result is a very unique village that offers you a gratifying tourism experience.
How to reach: Ullada is close to Ooty, just at 8 km away. The distance between Ooty and Coimbatore is about 80 km.
