TOP 5 NATURE
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.
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. Visitors can partake in adventure activities like zorbing, trekking, paragliding, and horse-riding. The must-visit sites include the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, home to exotic flora and fauna, Khajji Naga Temple that dates back to the 12th century. The Khajjiar Lake is set at 1920 meters and encircled by hills, grasslands, and deodar forests.
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 visible from this place. Some 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. And, visitors can also indulge in adventure activities, like hiking, skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. This tiny place is an ideal place for those looking for a nature retreat.
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, their beauty is incomparable. Being relatively undiscovered, you can experience this beauty in utmost serenity and breathe in the fresh, unpolluted air.
Munnar, Kerala
Spend some “me” time in nature’s lap in Munnar, a hill station famous for its tea and spice plantations. The popular activities are camping, parasailing, birdwatching, trekking, wildlife spotting, fishing, boating, and rock climbing. Some of the must-visit attractions include Echo Point and Kundala Lake, where you can enjoy boating and shikhara 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. There’s a Tata Tea Museum for tea lovers where you can learn about the history of tea and its processing.
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 a diversity of flora, including medicinal herbs. Besides, it is also home to various 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. It would help if you trekked to this beautiful valley, so be aware that July to September is the only time when trekking is allowed here.
You must be logged in to post a comment.