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India- The land of villages, the essence of the country lies here. But have you ever wondered about travelling to a village? You can just backpack all your essentials and head to a village for comfort, for experiencing home, and all things magical. And India has some of the most beautiful villages. Each of these is a ‘wonder’ in its own right, with a culture, a story, and breathtaking visuals that will stay with you forever. Scroll down to learn about five of the most beautiful villages in the whole of India.
The mystical and very much isolated village of Malana is known to be the oldest democracy in the world
Malana has an aura of its own; it is mystical and mysterious, and there is something so fascinating about this hidden gem of a village. It is the only village in Malana Nala surrounded by Parvati Valley on one side and Kullu Valley in the northeast. So, basically, the village is isolated from the rest of the world, having its own rules, language, and customs. Malana is situated on a remote plateau, 8701 ft above sea level [1] [2].
As of history, Malana is claimed to be one of the oldest democracies of the world [1]. They are very particular about the sanctity of the village and its people, thus, you have to be respectful of their virtues. The inhabitants of the village speak Kanashi, which is only understood by them [1]. But it can be the most beautiful experience of your life, away from the entire world, amidst the snow-capped mountains.
The Ziro Music Festival is much-awaited throughout the year, when visitors flock to the valley for the ultimate travel experience
It’s all chill and peaceful when we talk about the Ziro Valley. It cannot be termed as a village, but is referred to as a slow, serene town in the far east, the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Ziro Valley is one of the oldest towns of the state, also included in the Tentative list for UNESCO’s World Heritage site for the Apatani cultural landscape. It is home to the Apatani tribe, famous for its gentle rolling hills and rice fields. The Apatani tribe has a unique culture of its own, where they practice different methods for cultivation and the art of tattooed faces [3].
The best time of the year to visit the Ziro Valley is during the summer when there is cool weather. What's not to miss is the Ziro Music Festival, which is wild, eco-friendly, and nature-filled with music and good vibes [4].
How about travelling to one of the highest villages in the world, Kibber in Spiti Valley
Deeply nestled in the north of India at 14,200 ft, Kibber is one of the highest villages on the planet, with only 77 families residing there. As high as the Himalayas in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its lush green fields, snow-capped mountains, and clear blue skies [5].
Major attractions include the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and ancient monasteries. The sanctuary is home to 30 snow leopards according to the Forest Department of Himachal Pradesh, so do not miss a chance to visit Kibber and say your hello to the snow leopards! You can also try out adventurous activities like trekking and mountaineering at the Kanamo Peak, “The White hostess or the mountain of good omen” [6].
According to the travel website Tripadvisor, Kibbar has an overall rating of 4.5 from its visitors. You can check out more experiences and nearby attractions [11].
Discover India’s magazine awarded Mawlynnong as Asia’s Cleanest Village
Located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, the village is 90 km away from Shillong and in the East Khasi Hills district. You will find it all green, with the place full of bamboo houses and living root bridges [8]. Even the waste is collected in dustbins made of bamboo, followed by a pit, and then converted into manure [9].
Because of the cleanliness, tourism has boomed, which led to an increase in income by 60% in 2017. When you visit the village, ensure that you walk on the living root bridge. Another famous wonder here is the Balancing Rock, which is a sight to behold on the outskirts of the village. What does more justice to Mawlynnong is when it is referred to as “God’s own Garden[7].”
An insight into Mawlynnong has been provided on the official page of Meghalaya tourism [12].
Khimsar, the Land of Golden Dunes (Image source: Tusk Travel)
Khimsar is elegant and royal, located in the heart of Rajasthan. It has a unique history, exquisite culture, and poignant charm. The desert of Khimsar will give you the experience of vast dunes, sunsets, desert safaris, and rich Rajasthani hospitality.
The major attraction here is the Khimsar Fort, a gorgeous gorgeous luxury property that is now a heritage hotel. Also, do not miss the Nagaur Fort and the Panchala Black Buck reserve. If you want to make your visit more memorable, then go during the Nagaur festival, which is held annually to celebrate the culture and people of Khimsar with some fun activities in store[10].
So, just plan a three to four-day outing to any of these beautiful villages in India. You will get to know a lot about simply the change in air, the locales, the food of the interior parts, their culture, and many more tales that will stay with you for a lifetime. In a way, you would be living a story in quietness…that you will cherish long in your memories. Happy Holidays!!
Directorate of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya. (n.d.). Mawlynnong Village: Asia's cleanest village. Retrieved May 4, 2025, from https://www.meghalayatourism.in/destinations/mawlynnong-village/
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