Just a couple of months ago, on 15^th August 2019, the 73^rd Independence Day of India, PM Narendra Modi talked about promoting domestic tourism while addressing the nation from Red Fort. He said, “I know people travel abroad for holidays but can we think of visiting at least 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022 when we mark 75 years of independence.”

The words do not emanate for just promoting domestic travel. A lot of effort goes behind conceiving these very thoughts. The more we travel to domestic destinations, the condition of these places will improve. These places will be taken care of and maintained. The end result: more international tourists.

Today, there might be a dearth of high-end hotels and properties in many Tourist Destinations in India, but the only way to grow that is by boosting the tourism of these places.

However, with the rise in the economy of these places through tourism, and with a growth in demand, their conditions are bound to get better in every aspect. And that will also result in more foreign tourists visiting India. 

We have curated a bucket list of 15 tourist destinations across India that you can travel to before 2022! Read on.

1. Sikkim

Sikkim is a small state in the Northeast of India and shares its borders with Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, and West Bengal. The ever-present cleanliness drive, women empowerment, and the first organic state in the world are just a few feathers in its cap.

No words can do justice to the beauty of the majestic Kanchendzonga, the third highest peak of India. What a feeling it is when the first rays of the sun hit the peak painting it in all shades of ochre. 

Sikkim is mostly a maze of serpentine, super-steep valleys thick with lush subtropical woodlands and rhododendron groves. Other attractions include Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, Tsomgo Lake, Char Dham replica and the Buddha park along with the local attractions. All this and more make Sikkim your #1 choice for tourist destinations across India before 2022.

2. Amritsar

Next on our list of 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022 is the city of Amritsar. This city is a little difficult to visit during the summer due to its high temperatures. However, it is a must-visit place if you wish to travel during the winter months.

The famous Golden Temple is just the tip of the iceberg for this city. The retreat ceremony at the Wagah Border, the light show at the Gobindgarh fort are other main highlights of the city.

All in all, being the abode for some of the best food choices in the world, the pleasantly cool weather, makes Amritsar the perfect place to visit in winter.

3. Chail

Situated just 44 kilometers from Shimla, this town remains free from the vicious grips of urbanization. Chail is well known for its uncontaminated beauty and virgin forests.

The town is blessed with a glorious landscape; plush mountain ranges, impenetrable forests and a peaceful ambiance to complement it all. The old colonial buildings still ooze the age-old charm giving the whole town a picture-perfect setting. Definitely, a gem on our list of 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022.

Other things to do in Chail include a visit to the Palace Hotel, Kali ka Tibba, Chail Wildlife Sanctuary or Gurudwara Sahib.

4. Jharkhand

For nature lovers, this is a great time to bring out your cameras and click away to glory. The Palash flower blooms around February-April in the state of Jharkhand and it is a sight to behold. The tree grows up to 20m in height, after which the flowers are in full bloom. The bright reddish orange hues of this flower, brightens up the entire state. Strangely enough they bloom around the festival of colours; Holi. Not only does this add to the vibe of the festival but it also welcomes Spring in all its vibrancy. So plan a trip just to witness the blooming of Palash and you won’t be disappointed for sure.

5. Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is hailed as the most sacred destination for all Buddhist pilgrims. The Mahabodhi tree, under which Lord Buddha was believed to have achieved enlightenment, can be found at the Mahabodhi Temple compounds.

Many countries have contributed and built Buddhist Monasteries in this holy city. A mixture of varied architectural styles surely adds to the attraction of the place.

The hustle and bustle in this town, the sacred atmosphere, and the pleasant weather should surely entice you to consider Bodh Gaya as the top 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022.

6. Tawang

Next on our list of 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022 is Tawang. This quaint town is located at a height of about 3,048 meters in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang is famous for being the birthplace of “The Dalai Lama” and houses many significant and gorgeous monasteries.

Tawang will cajole you with its striking natural beauty draped in the innate scent of spirituality. The theory of “Eat, Pray, Love” stands true to this place. You have the choice to either treat your taste buds to the lip-smacking local cuisine or pray at the 400 years old Tawang Gumpa or do it all. Further, the beautiful orchid sanctuary and the Tipi Orchid Sanctuary make ideal destinations for a day trip.

7. Mechuka

A quaint little town in the hills at about 6000 ft. above sea level in the Mechuka valley; Mechuka isn’t just a village but it is an experience. It is in the Shi-Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh.

In fact, not many know this but there is this Mechuka festival that has been happening for the last 6 years. This festival promotes adventure tourism in Arunachal Pradesh and it is a 3 day festival that has adventure sports like micro-light glider rides, aero-modelling, paragliding, mountain biking, river crossing, rappelling, zorbing, trekking and rock climbing. What more do adventure junkies seek if not for all this? So head to Mechuka to get your fill of adrenalin and come back a new person. 

8. Kalimpong

A hill station that accumulated acclaim post the Colonial Period, Kalimpong is a small and peaceful place arranged in the midst of a set of the relentless snow secured pinnacles of the Himalayas.

The place is gradually turning into a famous get-away escape owing to its exquisite temperate climate. In addition, it is an important destination for Buddhism in India. Go for a trek and appreciate the natural surroundings of the place, choose to meditate, go for Buddhist tours, or simply unwind, this place is ideal for every last bit of it. In our opinion, a gem in our list of 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022.

9. Chhattisgarh

A state which is a little underrated but definitely explore worthy if you ask us. If you love history then Chhattisgarh has museums like Mahant Ghasidas museum and Purkhauti Muktangan museum that you can visit if you’re in Raipur which is the capital of Chhattisgarh. Did you know that this place is often referred to as the “rice bowl of India”? The reason being, there is a variety of rice crops that you will find here. So when in Chhattisgarh, get your tummys worth of rice! While history and food lovers can dote on this state, there’s also something for our water babies. Chitrakote falls, Teerathgarh falls and Tamra Ghoomar falls are among the list of waterfalls that you must take time out to see. So, with all this in your kitty, Chhattisgarh definitely makes it to the list of tourist destinations across India you must visit before 2022.

10. Hampi

Situated in the midst of the vestiges of the old Vijaynagar realm, Hampi is a standout amongst the most truly critical places in India. It used to be the capital of the prosperous Vijaynagar domain. Home to a few sanctuaries, regal structures, and stages, and landmarks, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. The Virupaksha sanctuary situated there is a critical religious and explorer site for Hindus. The by and large rough and tough conditions of Hampi make it a hiker’s joy and a top choice among the 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022.

11. Dhanushkodi

A quaint abandoned town which isn’t all that frequented, has a lot to offer a travel enthusiast. The best way to explore the place would be by road. Dhanushkodi beach is one of the places that you can visit. The pristine white sand beach is usually empty which means you can enjoy some quiet time by the beach without the influx of much crowd. For those of you who appreciate the marine life the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is another attraction you should include in your list. It consists of 21 islands which you can discover while you’re there. So, if you’re a beach bum, this is an ideal destination for you.

12. Varanasi

It is one of the oldest living cities on Earth. Varanasi sits on the banks of the most religiously revered river on the planet. It is a major pilgrimage destination for people of one of the most followed religions in the world. This city already attracts thousands of tourists. The month of November sees this city host a major Indian Classical Music and Dance festival. Dev Deepawali, marked by grand Aartis is a sight to behold and hence a must-visit as the 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022.

13. Dawki

Dawki, a quaint little border town in Meghalaya shares its border with Bangladesh. It still remains unheard of to the common folklore but is a trade hub between India and Bangladesh.

This town is miles away from pollution and you will be in awe while crossing the crystal clear water of the Umngot River while taking a boat ride. The other places of interest in and around Shillong are Barapani, Cherrapunji, Elephant falls, Nohkalikai falls and Shillong peak. Do not miss this beauty on your quest of 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022.

#15 Kasol

Kasol, a dreamy hamlet in the district of Kullu, lies on the banks of the Parvati River. Its the base for treks to Malana and Kheerganga. This sleepy little town is tucked comfortably between Bhuntar and Manikaran. Kasol earns is nickname as the ‘Mini Israel of India’. This is due to the high concentration of Israeli travelers in the town all year round.

15. Orccha

If you’re a lover of history and heritage, this place in Madhya Pradesh is where you need to travel to next. Surrounded by the Betwa river, Orccha is famous for its palaces and temples that date back to the 16th and 17th century. This was the capital city of the Bundela rulers. It was founded in 1531 by the Bundela Rajput chief, Rudra Pratap Singh who became the first king of Orccha. 

It is a place that will transport you into an era that you wish existed now! So plan a trip to this timeless wonder and brush up on all the history that you would like to know.

Well, let’s take a pledge today and let’s begin our quest to cover all or at least some of these places from our curated list of 15 tourist destinations across India before 2022. If you need any assistance, feel free to hit us up on Twitter/Facebook/Instagram. Better yet, Hire a Scout and make your trip a more hassle free one by traveling confidently with their expert advice. 

The post 15 Off Beat Tourist Destinations In India That You Must Visit Before 2022 appeared first on ScoutMyTrip Blog.