The villages of India are filled with the colours of culture and history and blessed with natural beauty. For those people who have been caught up in the concrete jungles and want to immerse themselves in the bucolic countryside, there is nothing like discovering some of India’s off the beaten path tourist attractions. Here are some eight best villages to visit for that real feel of India; one of the villages is from Punjab which is really beautiful.

1. Majuli, Assam

Majuli situated in the river Brahmaputra is the biggest river island in the world offering huge vistas of Assamese folk life. This is a colorful village, famous for its merriments, Satras- the monasteries and Satriya- a gamine dance form. The place offers natural sights and sceneries which include forests and water bodies which also entail culturalully rich traditional folk village. There is also potential to look into the ability of the local weavers to produce Muga silk fabrics and design them complicated patterns.

2. Gangaikondacholapuram, Tamil Nadu

The place of historical importance located in Tamil Nadu is Gangaikondacholapuram which is blessed with Chola styled structure and temples. The temple among them is the Brihadeeswarar Temple and its architecture belongs to the UNESCO list of world heritage sites and it demonstrates the grand interface of sculpture and carving. On the one hand, the village remains a place to immerse into history and heritage out of a common tourist route, and that is a real discovery for history and culture lovers.

3. Khimsar, Rajasthan

For lovers of history and want to get a taste of modern rural life still marked by the traces of royal palace then Khimsar in Rajasthan is the perfect place. The village again famous for Khimsar Fort give us exposure about the luxurious living style of Rajput kings. It is today developed as a heritage hotel to give feel of royal life to the guests and tourists. Khimsar also provides entry to the Thar desert where tourists can enjoy camel ride and the beauty of sun set also.

4. Hampi, Karnataka

Although technically more of a town, the village-like feel and ancient ruins of Hampi surely add to the list of places a tourist concerned with history and archaeology would not want to miss. The site is strewn with fascinating ruins of temples, palaces, and markets dating back to the Vijayanagara Empire. Surreal landscapes of boulder-strewn hills and ancient structures meet the serene Tungabhadra River, making Hampi an enchanting place to explore.

5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

While Rishikesh is considered more famous for being spiritual and divine place, this village is tranquil and unique in its own charm. The village on the banks of the Ganges River is a perfect place to practice yoga and meditation. Greenery all around, with the quiet river and the hills, forms a great combination for introspection and spiritual growth. One must not miss the evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan that forms a great and breathtaking view.

6. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Many call it the “Mini Switzerland of India”; this hidden treasure of Uttarakhand’s Himalayas has its name-Chopta. This tiny village serves as an entrance to the Tungnath Temple, which is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. Chopta boasts of panoramic views with lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks that prove as excellent trekking destinations and a peaceful retreat into nature. The cool climate and serene environment add to making it just the right destination for those looking to escape the summer heat.

7. Kumarakom, Kerala

Poised on the backwaters of Kerala, Kumarakom is a tranquil village and a model of natural beauty. A houseboat cruise along the silent waters of Vembanad Lake makes one drift through an area of lush greenery down to the experience of backwater life peculiar to Kerala. Kumarakom traditional homestays put guests through an authentic experience of Kerala’s hospitality and cuisine. The village is also famous for its bird sanctuary hosting different species of migratory birds.

8. Kapurthala, Punjab

With a rich cultural background, the village of Kapurthala is worth visiting in Punjab. Very well-known for its great architecture, Kapurthala Palace, being the most beautiful, and the great mosque built in Moorish style, amalgamate historical and contemporary village life in Punjab. Local markets exist within the village that tourists can visit and experience Punjabi traditions. They can taste typical Punjabi food and participate in several vibrant cultural festivals that take place in the village. Kapurthala possesses some of the most beautiful countryside fields of Punjab, and the people are very friendly there.

Visiting these villages provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse and rich fabric of India beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Each destination, whether showcasing historical wonders, royal legacies, tranquil landscapes, or vibrant local cultures, offers a unique and enriching experience. Whether your aim is to explore historical sites, reconnect with nature, or experience traditional ways of life, these villages promise unforgettable experiences and a profound connection to the essence of India. So, pack your bags, escape the urban rush, and embark on a journey to uncover the enchanting allure of India’s most captivating villages.