The geographic terrain of India
is rich and diverse, filled with lush green forests, scenic lakes,
majestic mountain peaks, mosaics of grasslands, tropical beaches, and
vast stretches of wilderness. From east to west, north to south, this
South Asian country packs an assortment of treasures for nature lovers.
Here is a rundown of some of the most beautiful places where you can be
at one with nature.
Coorg, Karnataka
Famously known as the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg is a tiny hill station
located in Southern Karnataka in the lap of Western Ghats.
Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Commonly known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar sits at over
1981 meters (6500 feet) and is synonymous with picturesque beauty.
Dense forest, swathes of green meadows and beautiful snow-capped
mountain vistas make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
Located in the eastern district of Uttarakhand, Pithoragarh boasts of
irresistible natural beauty, high altitude grasslands and historic
charm. It is the starting point for treks to the holy shrines of Kailash
and Mansarovar. And, the panoramic views of the mighty peaks of Nanda
Devi, Appi of Nepal and Panchachuli are clearly visible from this place.
Some of the tourist spots include the Pithoragarh Fort, Askot Sanctuary
that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, and Kafni Glacier
Trek, among many others.
Kaas Plateau, Maharashtra
Another ethereal beauty is the Kaas Plateau, which is a UNESCO World
Biodiversity Site. It attracts visitors with more than 850 different and
unique species of flowering plants. When these flowering plants are in
full bloom in the months of August-September, its beauty is
incomparable.
Munnar, Kerala
Spend some “me” time in nature’s lap in Munnar,
a hill station famous for its tea and spice plantations. Camping,
parasailing, birdwatching, trekking, wildlife spotting, fishing, boating
and rock climbing are the popular activities here. Some of the
must-visit attractions include Echo Point, and Kundala Lake where you
can enjoy boating and shikara rides amidst the natural beauty and views
of rolling hills; Devikulum is home to an assortment of temples, Attakud
waterfall and Anamudi Peak, among many others.
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the Nanda Devi Biosphere, the Valley of Flowers is the most
attractive place in Uttarakhand. Every inch of this place is blessed
with unparalleled natural beauty in the form of endemic alpine flowers
and diversity of flora, including medicinal herbs. Besides, it is also
home to a variety of endangered species of animals, including the snow
leopard, Asiatic black bear, blue sheep and musk deer, to name a few.
Also, there are a host of gushing waterfalls and streams in this scenic
valley.
Chail, Himachal Pradesh
Sitting amid the Shivalik hills, Chail is a peaceful and secluded hill
station that once served as a summer retreat for the Maharaja of
Patiala. Surrounded by deodar and pine forests and replete with
spectacular views of the mountains, this place is a delight for nature
lovers and photographers. A visit to Sadhupul lake, Chail Palace, Kali
temple and the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is a must when in Chail.
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Unscathed by modern civilization, the Ziro in north-eastern India is
blessed with abundant natural beauty. Vast expanses of paddy fields,
rolling green hills with abundant flora, quaint villages and its virgin
beauty attract many nature lovers. Besides, this place is also a treat
for adventure seekers, trekkers and wildlife explorers. Some of the
must-visit attractions include Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary that is
home to a variety of exotic flora and fauna, Kile Pakho where you can
soak in the natural beauty, and Dolo Mando and Midey are trekkers’
paradise.
Araku, Andhra Pradesh
The vast grasslands, rose gardens of varying hues, coffee fields,
fruit-laden orchards, gushing waterfalls, and the diversity of flora and
fauna mean Araku Valley is a spot with prolific scenic beauty. The
famous attractions here include coffee plantations, Padmapuram botanical
garden, a Tribal museum that features tribal lifestyle and handicrafts,
and waterfalls, like Sangda falls, Dumbriguda falls and Katiki falls.
Also, the natural Borra Caves situated near the valley are a must visit.
Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
Sandwiched between north-eastern states of Manipur and Nagaland, Dzukou
Valley is home to lush green forest, mosaic of grasslands, flowers of
varying hues, and an abundance of flora and fauna, making it a perfect
spot to spend some time in the lap of Mother Nature. The Japfu hills add
to the splendour of the place and make it is a perfect spot for
trekking. If you’re not up for trekking, take a stroll among the
ubiquitous flowers. This is home to a variety of flowers, including the
rare and unique Dzükou lily, multi-colored rhododendrons and aconitum.
The best time to visit is October to May. To reach the valley, you need
to trek either from Zakhama village or Visvema village. Indian visitors
need an inner line permit for Nagaland and foreign visitors must
register themselves at the local state government office in Kohima or
Dimapur, Nagaland.