If Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are in the rear-view mirror, then you’ve had a glimpse of India, but not of India itself. A second or third visit should take you further afield, past the well-trodden tourist routes to India of ancient temples, remote landscapes, wildlife and regional cooking with slow cultural experiences.
Here are ten locations that should form the basis of your next “India off the path” trip, ranging from the valleys of the Himalayas in Ladakh to Kerala’s serene backwaters.
1. Bundi, Rajasthan
Bundi is a very atmospheric small town in Rajasthan; with its medieval narrow lanes, blue houses, step-wells and vast palace, it’s quite a step away from Jaipur or Udaipur.
The star is Bundi Palace, especially the very elaborate murals contained inside. If you’ve been to Rajasthan before, Bundi serves as a perfect and relaxed extension to your trip, not another tourist venue to add to the list.
2. Narlai, Rajasthan
If you have been fascinated by Rajasthan but wish to get a feel for rural Rajasthan, Narlai can be a good option. Nestled between the Aravallis, it was once a Rajput stronghold, making it perfect to get a more serene pace and the experience of rural Rajasthan.
A stay in a heritage property can make Narlai so much more than just a night. You can take walks to the village, get yourself around the rural surroundings, or have a well-curated village experience away from mass tourism.
3. Madhya Pradesh
If wildlife and history appeal to you equally, Madhya Pradesh deserves serious consideration. The state combines tiger reserves such as Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, and Satpura with remarkable heritage sites including Khajuraho, Orchha, and Sanchi. BoutIndia’s Best of Central India itinerary brings together several of the region’s strongest wildlife experiences.
For repeat visitors, this is one of India’s most rewarding combinations: safari in the morning, temples or historic architecture later in the day.
4. Gujarat
Gujarat offers an entirely different side of western India. Explore the historic city of Ahmedabad, the architectural treasures of Vadodara, the landscapes of the Rann of Kutch, or the wildlife of Gir.
It is particularly appealing to travelers interested in textiles, crafts, architecture, food, and communities with distinctive cultural traditions. BoutIndia also features a dedicated Splendors of Gujarat journey as part of its wider India offerings.
5. Kerala
After the forts and palaces of northern India, Kerala can feel like entering another country. Its tropical landscapes, tea-covered hills, spice plantations, wildlife, beaches, and backwaters create a completely different rhythm.
Spend time in Kochi, travel into the hills around Munnar, explore Periyar, and finish with a relaxed stay around the backwaters. A luxury Kerala itinerary can combine these experiences while leaving room for unhurried days.
6. Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is an outstanding choice for travelers fascinated by India’s religious architecture. From Mahabalipuram to Thanjavur and Madurai, enormous temple complexes and intricate stone carvings reveal a completely different architectural tradition from the Mughal monuments of northern India.
Pairing Tamil Nadu with Kerala is particularly effective for a second India trip. BoutIndia’s Southern Splendors itinerary combines the two regions over 18 days.
7. Ladakh
For a dramatic change of scenery, head north to Ladakh. High-altitude landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, mountain passes, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Lake make this one of India’s most distinctive regions.
Ladakh does require thoughtful planning because of its altitude, but the rewards are substantial. BoutIndia’s Heavenly Himalayas journey includes Leh, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Lake, with time built in for acclimatization.
8. Karnataka
Karnataka is best suited for those who’d like to incorporate history into their itinerary but are bypassing the “golden triangle” that characterizes travel in northern India. Hampi’s stunning monuments, Mysore’s royal grandeur, the coffee plantations of Coorg and the scenery of southern Karnataka can all be woven together for a fantastic cultural exploration.
It also comes as a naturally good choice for food, coffee, nature, and boutique stays intertwined.
9. Kashmir
Kashmir provides a different view of Himalayan India. The state is known for its alpine scenery, lakes, gardens, historic Srinagar, and mountain resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
For travelers returning, this does not just mean viewing sights again. A structured itinerary for Kashmir could be about scenery, culture, staying on a houseboat, walking, and simply being in the mountains.
10. Northeast India
For real deviations from India’s typical tourist trail, head to the east. Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Nagaland provide an exotic landscape and lifestyle far removed from the Golden Triangle. You could follow Kaziranga’s wildlife with the rolling tea-lands of Assam, or chase the waterfalls, forests and living-root bridges of Meghalaya. The Northeast is definitely for explorers rather than stamp collectors.
How to Choose Your Next India Destination
The right destination depends on what you want from your second India trip. Choose Madhya Pradesh or Assam for wildlife, Ladakh or Kashmir for mountains, Kerala for relaxation, Tamil Nadu for temples, Gujarat for culture and crafts, and Karnataka for history and architecture.
The advantage of returning to India is that you no longer need to see everything. You can build the journey around what genuinely interests you.
BoutIndia specializes in 100% tailor-made journeys, allowing travelers to choose their preferred destinations, travel pace, accommodation style, and experiences. If you already know what you want to explore, you can plan a customized India trip around those interests.
FAQs
What are the best off-the-beaten-path places in India for repeat visitors?
Bundi, Narlai, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Ladakh, Kashmir, and Northeast India are excellent choices for travelers who have already completed the Golden Triangle.
Where should I go in India after visiting Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur?
It depends on your interests. Kerala is ideal for relaxation and landscapes, Madhya Pradesh for wildlife and heritage, Tamil Nadu for temples, Ladakh for mountains, and Gujarat for culture and crafts.
Is India off the beaten path suitable for luxury travelers?
I’m totally glad for what it says. I know a little Spanish, but it’s not good. Do people also stay places like luxury lodges that are not on a private itinerary? Is a private itinerary only the less traveled parts of the major tourist cities? Or is the entire thing a less-traveled itinerary and does going less traveled still mean comfortable stays?
How long should a second trip to India be?
For exploring one region in detail, 10-14 days is sufficient, and 2 to 3 weeks will be sufficient to club together compatible regions like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, wildlife and heritage combined areas in Central India, etc.
Can I create a customized India itinerary?
Yes. A customized itinerary is often the best approach for repeat visitors because you can skip places you’ve already experienced and focus entirely on new interests, regions, and experiences.
