Best Destinations in India for Nature Lovers
From the snow-covered Himalayas in the North and sand dunes in the West to acres of wilderness in the East and miles of balmy beaches in the South, India offers a diverse range of natural attractions. India is, indeed, one of the world’s best countries for nature lovers. If you haven’t been to this exotic place before, then you must plan your India trip soon. Choose your destination from this list of the best places in India for nature lovers and book flight tickets at Indian Eagle for maximum savings on airfare.
1. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
As the name suggests, this exotic valley nestled in the Garhwal range of the Himalayas is filled with nearly 300 species of alpine flowers and endemic species of medicinal plants. The plants bloom to the fullest during the monsoon season, turning the valley into a garden of colorful flowers. Several small streams rush through the valley, which acts as an abode for endangered birds and animals. One can trek to the Valley of Flowers between June and October. However, plan your trek in August or September for the best views.
- Best time to visit Valley of Flowers: July to September
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
2. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
With dense deodar forests, lush meadows, and sparkling lakes spread against the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks; Khajjiar’s beauty is almost postcard-perfect! This picturesque town is rightly nicknamed the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’. It is located in the lap of the Dhauladhar Mountains, at an altitude of 2500 m. Khajjiar also offers several adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, and zorbing, and hence, is one of the best places in India for nature lovers as well as adventure enthusiasts.
- Best time to visit Khajjiar: March to October
- Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport, Gaggal
- Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
3. Coorg, Karnataka
As the “Scotland of India”, Coorg attracts visitors always looking forward to spending time amidst nature to rejuvenate themselves. This pretty hill station situated in the Western Ghats is known for its idyllic villages, coffee plantations, verdant forests, stunning waterfalls, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. Visit the historic Madikeri Fort, go for a wildlife safari at the Nagarhole National Park, enjoy whitewater rafting on the Barapole River, and admire the views of the hill station from Raja’s Seat.
- Best time to visit Coorg: November to February
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport, Mangalore.
- Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station
4. Munnar, Kerala
One of the most popular destinations in India for nature lovers, Munnar is a haven of tranquility. This quaint town situated in God’s Own Country is blessed with beautiful landscapes featuring rolling hills, misty valleys, sprawling tea and spice estates, gushing waterfalls and streams. Nature lovers can have really enjoyable time in Munnar by taking part in various activities like trekking, camping, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting among others. Visit Tata Tea Museum, where you can learn about tea processing and taste different tea varieties – a treat for tea lovers.
- Best time to visit Munnar: October to November
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, Cochin.
- Nearest Railway Station: Cochin railway station
5. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Located at a distance of nearly 115 km from Itanagar (the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh), Ziro is a must-visit place in India for nature lovers. Surrounded by pine-covered hills, the valley is dotted with terraced rice fields. If you are in search of a scenic yet uncrowded destination where you can be at one with nature, then you might want to visit this place! The only time when huge crowds throng the lush valley is during the Ziro Music Festival, a grand outdoor music event usually held in September.
- Best time to visit Ziro Valley: March to October
- Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport, Tezpur.
- Nearest Railway Station: Naharlagun Railway Station
Some of the other beautiful destinations for nature lovers include Majuli Island (Assam), Dudhsagar Waterfalls (Goa), Sundarbans Forest (West Bengal), Havelock Islands (Andaman), Lonar Crater Lake (Maharashtra), Araku Valley (Andhra Pradesh), Dal Lake (Srinagar), Loktak Lake (Manipur) and Nubra Valley (Ladakh).
