No Passport Needed: 7 Foreign-Like Indian Locales (2025)
Have you ever wished to walk down picturesque French streets, ski the Swiss Alps, or glide in a gondola through the canals of Venice? Affording a holiday is hard enough, and the thought of visa application and long flights are a turn-off, the good news is you can enjoy an international holiday in India. “7 Foreign-Like Indian Locales” India is rich in diversity of culture and civilization. There are countless places in the country that look like the places in the world and would make you forget for a moment that you are in India. Too lazy to plan your Travel the World in India Trip? Try The Tarzan Way – it’s like having your own AI trip buddy that plans everything around your vibe. This guide will introduce you to a few of these gems. Get ready to explore the world without breaking the bank or needing a passport stamp: 1. Pondicherry: A Slice of France on the Coromandel Coast Located on the Coromandel Coast, Pondicherry (or Puducherry) was the site of French colonial settlements. This town still has a unique Gallo charm. Take a stroll in the French Quarters (or ‘White Town’) and take in the fossil era villas wrapped in bougainvillea, the cobble paths, and the cafes with French treats. Witness the puffed decor and the polite ambiance and you will believe that this town transports you to the southern coast of France. Best Time to Visit: October to March. Pro Tip: French Quarters are best explored on a bicycle or a motor scooter to your own speed. This will help you spot the hidden pastries and some nice places to check and photograph. 2. Gulmarg, Kashmir: India’s Answer to Switzerland Tourists are fascinated by the beauty of Kashmir, and Gulmarg is the finest of all the places. Like Switzerland, Gulmarg is covered by snow, laminates, and greenery. In the winter, Gulmarg is one of the snow resorts, and in the summer, it has one of the highest golf courses. Gulmarg has one of the finest postcard quality scenery and ambiance. Best to visit: January to February, April to June. Pro Tip: You should ride the Gondola, which is one of the highest in the world. You should book tickets online. 3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The Ko Phi Phi of India The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are filled with tropical paradise, picturesque beaches, and are filled with the best beaches in India, which includes great snorkeling and scuba with tropical birds. Best Time to Visit: October to May. Pro Tip: Visit Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) at sunset. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in Asia and its beauty is truly breathtaking. 4. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh: The Original “Mini Switzerland” Officially christened the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Khajjiar is a small hill station that packs a scenic punch. The centerpiece is a stunning, saucer-shaped meadow surrounded by a dense forest of deodar and pine trees. With a serene lake in the middle and views of snow-capped mountains in the distance, it’s a picture-perfect replica of the European countryside. The cool mountain air and tranquil ambiance make it a perfect escape. Best Time to Visit: November to March (for a winter wonderland); March to June (for pleasant weather). Pro Tip: For a bit of fun, try zorbing (rolling downhill inside a giant orb) on the main meadow. It’s a unique activity that offers a thrilling perspective of the stunning landscape. 5. Srinagar, Kashmir: A Glimpse of Floating Markets Any trip to Srinagar wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous floating market on Dal Lake. It is picturesque in the same way, and can even be compared to, the floating markets in Bangkok and the canals of Amsterdam, albeit with the added beauty of the Himalayas. Here vendors on traditional shikara boats sell fresh vegetables, flowers, and other handicrafts, all while surrounded by the stunning, and majestic, view of the Himalayas. You have to see it to believe it. Best Time to Visit: April to October. Pro Tip: For the most memorable experience, spend the night on a traditional Kashmiri houseboat, rather than a hotel, on Dal or Nigeen Lake. It is unforgettable to wake up to the gentle lapping on the hull of the houseboat. 6. Alleppey, Kerala: The Venice of the East Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is known as the “Venice of the East” and for good reason. It is the centerpiece of the backwaters in Kerala, which consists of an elaborate system of interconnected lakes, canals, and lagoons. Instead of gondolas, you have traditional houseboats (kettuvallams) that take you through calm, palm tree-lined canals. Floating through the narrow canals is as magical and picturesque as a gondola ride, where you pass lush paddy fields and quaint villages. Best Time to Visit: Best time to visit is from November to February. Pro Tip: Go for an overnight houseboat cruise. You will get to see the backwaters sunsets and sunrises and get away from the crowds of the day. 7. Coorg, Karnataka: the Scotland of India Because of its mist-covered and rolling hills, and cool and crisp weather, Coorg (Kodagu) is frequently likened to the Scottish Highlands. This portion of Karnataka is well recognized for its coffee and spice cultivation. Blending with the foliage are the charming traditions of the Kodava people and the waterfalls tucked away in the hills, which provide a very charming surprise. Best Time to Visit: Best time to visit October to March. Pro Tip: Visit a coffee plantation, it is a must. You’ll find many coffee plantations that offer tours and let you taste coffee made from freshly picked beans. FAQs: Q. Why are these Indian places compared to foreign countries? A. This is due to architectural, landscape, and ambiance comparatives. For instance, Gulmarg has an alpine landscape that is a lot like the Swiss Alps and the old French colonies in Pondicherry are laden with French architecture. Q. Is it cheaper to visit these places than
9 Outlandish Places to Visit in Gangtok
From Nathula pass to Banjhakri falls, Gangtok is home to some of the world’s most spectacular views and sceneries. It is a living and active slice of north-eastern heaven, with just the right mix of everything from a fusion of cultural identities to modernity. There are a number of places to visit in Gangtok. The capital city of Sikkim is highly appealing, refreshingly lively, and crowned by clouds. It also offers a wonderful view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from afar. The picturesque hill station is surrounded by hills and sky and when viewed from a cable car, the kaleidoscopic splendor and magnificent curving hill roads are even more spectacular. Here are a few terrific places to start exploring when you need a breather from the city’s nonstop bustle: Tashi Viewpoint Himalayan Zoological Park Nathula Pass Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary MG Marg Phodong Monastery Reshi hot springs Banjhakri Falls Rumtek Monastery Best Places to Visit in Gangtok With its incomparable landscapes and exquisite monasteries and attractions, Gangtok is vibrant and fascinating. You may be eager to move on and see more of Sikkim once you’ve seen the best of it. For now, there’s enough excitement in there to last your entire trip. 1. Tashi Viewpoint Image by Yuraj Pradhan Tashi View Point is an ideal location to soak in the splendid views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and Gangtok. This popular tourist destination is noted for having some of the best sunrise and sunset views. As the sun slowly moves away from this vantage point, one can see the Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu Peaks change color, as well as notable monasteries of Gangtok, Phodong, and Labrang. The magnificent Tashi Viewpoint is unrivaled because of its unspoiled atmosphere, which has been created in such a way that travelers can better understand the Himalayan trance. This place additionally serves as a great picnic spot due to the presence of an eatery and shelters close to the viewpoint site. In addition to its serene environment, the scenic ambiance contributes substantially to the travelers’ ability to enjoy views of the Phodong Monastery and Labrang Monastery by this place. Fee: Free Timings: 5 am to 6 pm 2. Himalayan Zoological Park Image by Nanda Ramesh In Sikkim, the Himalayan Zoological Park is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. The Park was created to protect wildlife while maintaining them in their natural habitat. Several Himalayan wildlife species can be found in the park. Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Himalayan Red Panda, Snow Leopard Cat, Goral, Himalayan Palm Civet, Himalayan Black Bear, and Crimson-Horned Pheasant are only a few of the Himalayan species that can be found here. The Himalayan Zoological Park is Sikkim’s first zoological park. The Park achieves the illusion of a modern zoo, in which animals are raised in natural settings. The months of mid-February to May and mid-September to December are the finest times to visit the place. The Forests, Environment, and Wildlife Management Department of the Government of Sikkim looks after the park. The zoo has a café, gift shop, drinking water stations, restrooms, and a watchtower from which you can enjoy a nice view of the region. One must explore the Himalayan Zoological Park in Gangtok to experience the natural habitat of a variety of species while taking in the wonderful scenery. Fee: 25 INR Timings: 9 am to 4 pm (closed on Thursday) 3. Nathula Pass Image by Huzefa Bagwala Nathula is an elevated pass on the old silk route near the Indo-Chinese border. Every year, a large number of tourists go here to appreciate the magnificent hike into the valley while reveling in the rhythmic cascades that line the path between Gangtok and Nathula. It has lessened the distance between significant Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage sites, helping the economy and strengthening relations with China on the frontier. The route, which runs over 70 kilometers from Gangtok and passes by the turquoise blue Tsomgo Lake and the spectacular Baba Harbhajan Mandir, is an adventure in and of itself. The Border Gates of India and China, a battle memorial, and an India Army Exhibition Centre highlight the border checkpoint at Nathula Pass. On a clear day, Nathula Pass offers spectacular views of Mt. Chomolhari. You can see Chinese armed forces covering their side of the border as you approach closer to it. Tourists are allowed to snap photographs in and around this high-altitude pass, contrary to popular belief. Occasionally, you can shake hands with Chinese soldiers on the other side of the border. Fee: 200 INR Timings: 8 am to 6 pm (Wednesday to Sunday) 4. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Image by Vladimir Cech The Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in a diverse group of mammals and birds. This sanctuary also includes enclaves, including Mangan, a tourist hotspot. There are no shops or restaurants there, so you need to obtain a stay permit and bring your meals, including lunch, dinner, and snacks. If you’re a birdwatcher you will like Fambong Lho since it is home to endangered Rufous-headed hornbills and laughing thrushes. Animals such as the red panda, barking deer, and yellow-throated marten also inhabit the sanctuary, and you will find flora such as rhododendron and orchids. Various towers have been constructed in the forest to allow tourists to have the closest view of the colorful birds and animals. For thrill-seekers, the sanctuary also has some excellent hiking paths. Within the sanctuary, there are four jungle pathways. Fambong Lho is packed with things to see and the area is quite spread out, so you may want to hire a trail guide to show you around. Fee: 5 INR Timings: 8 am to 2 pm 5. MG Marg Image by Soumyajit Pramanick MG Marg is like an addition to an open shopping mall where locals and visitors alike may enjoy casual strolls or
11 Perfect Tourist-friendly Places to Visit in Pelling
Pelling, in India’s West Sikkim region, is an intricately structured town that provides beautiful sights of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga. It’s the second most popular tourist destination after Gangtok and is an ideal place to spend a relaxing vacation. It is not much more than a few streets surrounded by hotels and guesthouses with glimpses of Kanchenjunga. However, if you leave the town center, you’ll find monasteries, streams, temples, and lakes within a couple of miles. It has a range of options for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and city folk, and it’s the perfect break for a refreshing getaway. Pelling is encompassed by nature in all of its pristine splendor. These are the 11 most touristy places to visit in Pelling if you are you’re a culture and history geek: Kanchenjunga Falls Rabdentse Ruins Darap Village Singshore Bridge Khecheopalri Lake Kaluk Rimbi Waterfalls Sewaro Rock Garden Yuksom Sangachoeling Monastery Pelling Skywalk Best Places to Visit in Pelling Pelling is the kind of place that exudes pleasant energy. It has gained popularity as a major tourist destination because of its abundance of pristine natural beauty and scenic surroundings. Pelling is undoubtedly beautiful, but there are also a lot of interesting places to discover here. These are just a few of them! 1. Kanchenjunga Falls Image by Noor Salim One of the best sites to visit in Pelling has to be the majestic Kanchenjunga Falls. These waterfalls, nestled among the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, are a spectacle that cannot be missed. The green and white ambiance relax the eyes, while the constant glittering of the streams is soothing to the ears. The waterfall is visible from the road, although a climb of around 50 to 60 meters is required to reach the main drops. You won’t run out of energy because there are plenty of refreshment stalls throughout the area. Fee: 20 INR per person Timings: 8 am to 5 pm 2. Rabdentse Ruins Photo by Amitabha Gupta Rabdentse Ruins of Pelling are an essential visit for people with an interest in Sikkim’s historical past. It served as Sikkim’s second capital between the 1600s to the 1800s, and so had a significant role in the history of the state. The entryway to these ruins is lined with chestnut trees, and as you wander deeper, you’ll come across three standing stones known as Namphogang, which used to be the site of the judges’ last statements. For the most part, just fragments of buildings stay intact. However, while in Pelling, a visit to the Rabdentse Ruins is a must because this amazing location has some of the best sights of the Kanchendzonga mountain ranges in West Sikkim. Fee: Free Timings: 8 am to 5 pm 3. Darap Village Image by Sharada Prasad CS Darap village is a picturesque getaway far from the hectic rush of the cities. It is surrounded by the breathtaking summits of the Himalayan Mountain range. Travelers may explore the village by staying in one of the many delightful guesthouses in the area. Living in the village allows not just the opportunity to experience the outdoors but also a chance to become active in the community. You may play games with the young, churn butter and make cheese the old-fashioned way, hike freely, and relax by the river. Fee: Homestay charges range from 500 INR to 3000 INR Timings: All-day 4. Singshore Bridge Image by Ankur P Singshore bridge is the second-largest suspension bridge in Asia. While it serves the same objective as any other bridge, it does so in a much more attractive manner. The overwhelming craftsmanship of the display, as well as the spectacular scenery all around, will captivate you. The Singshore Bridge is a long bridge that links two lush mountains. Just below the bridge, a huge valley opens up, and tall mountains rise above it. You may travel the entire length of the trail to see each breathtaking gorge. The bridge provides a great perspective of the nearby region that is definitely worth capturing. Fee: Free Timings: 9 am to 6 pm 5. Khecheopalri Lake Image by Yoghya Khecheopalri lake is a natural lake near Pelling, Sikkim. The lake is nestled in the woods near Tsozo village. It is one of Pelling’s most memorable destinations. Many people regard the Khechoedpaldri hill beside the lake to be a spiritual site. Visiting the lake is a lovely experience because nature and stillness thrive. Many different birds make their home on the lake’s lovely beaches, and the neighboring bamboo trees add to the diversified charm. Fee: Free Timings: 8 am to 6 pm 6. Kaluk Image by Atulbhats Kaluk is another stunning destination in West Sikkim’s foothills. Kaluk is a small village in Pelling that is home to Nepalese and Marwari people. The Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary and the Rinche pong monastery are two attractions worth visiting. It is well-known among visitors for its one-of-a-kind Buddha statue and fantastic scenery. You must go to this tiny yet marvelous village and hire a homestay if you want to relax and recuperate in Pelling’s isolation and quiet. It is a must-see on any Pelling trip itinerary. Fee: Homestay charges range from 500 INR to 1500 INR Timings: All-day 7. Rimbi Waterfalls Image by Shubham Shukla Along the way to Khecheopalri and Yuksam, you’ll pass by the Rimbi Waterfall, which is a rushing torrent of white water. The image of glittering water falling from great heights and smashing into a pool below is astounding. Tourists and locals flock to this location during the summers and winters because of the beautiful view of the surroundings combined with the view of this magnificent waterfall. Rimbi Waterfalls is a picture-perfect tourist attraction that you must see at Pelling. Fee: Free Timings: 8 am
9 Best Islands in Andaman & Nicobar that You Must Visit in 2022
Image by Miltiadis Fragkidis The Andaman Islands are a destination where you can witness real beauty. It is not only rich with beaches that are breathtakingly beautiful, but it is also India’s biodiversity’s finest feat. This natural paradise is a favorite destination for travelers from all around the world. There are always plenty of entertaining outdoor activities in the Andaman because of the perpetually pleasant weather and the calm shorelines. Not to mention the mouthwatering seafood and the huge number of exciting locations to explore in Andaman that will make your trip truly memorable. It is a charming island for a relaxing family vacation, an adventure hub for divers, and a paradise for honeymooners. On your Andaman vacation, these islands are sure to treat you with countless unique experiences. Havelock Island Neil Island North Bay Island Ross Island Baratang Island Cinque Island Jolly buoy Island Barren Island Katchal Island Best Islands to Visit in the Andamans in 2022 The Great Andaman, Little Andaman, Ritchie’s Archipelago, East Volcano Islands, and Sentinel Islands are part of the 572 islands in the Andamans. Every island in the Andaman chain is distinct from the others and has a special history. If one is home to historical sites, the others are the habitat for rare bird species. The Andamans have some of the best and most unique islands you could visit in 2022 to spend a holiday with your family, your partner, your friends, or even alone! 1. Havelock Island Image by Ahmed Siddiqui Also known as Swaraj Dweep, Havelock Island is a jewel in the crown of Andaman’s majestic islands. Tourists pour in just to visit Havelock and indulge in its beauty. Due to the outstanding features it has, Havelock Island is a top tourist destination. Travelers that visit Havelock Island can find all the facilities and services they need there. Many of the popular beaches like Radha Nagar beach, Kala Patthar beach, and Elephant beach are present here. It provides some of Asia’s best beaches and is renowned for its world-class reef and swimming elephants. There is no denying the peace in this place. The blue water, the white-sanded shore, and the rich coral reef meet all your expectations of an ideal vacation. Andaman’s tour is incomplete without a visit to Havelock. Best time to visit: March to May 2. Neil Island Image by Niket Malpani Neil island is a place without many fancy attractions like the other islands. It is a place where you can relax and spend some quality time with your loved ones. The green palm trees and the rather calm environment attract a lot of tourists. The unexplored flora and fauna appeal to nature lovers. The island is home to several nice beaches like Lakshmanpur beach and Sitapur beach. It is one of the best areas to stay in Andaman. The island is alluringly distinct from its neighbor Havelock with its slow-living culture and crystal beauty. This island is perfect for folks who would like to quietly explore the island’s towns because there is little commotion, little to do, and few resorts. Although there aren’t many amenities and the beaches aren’t particularly luxurious, this can be a blessing in disguise, especially if you value peace and quiet. Considering its size, the island is best enjoyed for a few days at most. Best time to visit: October to May 3. North Bay Island Image by Harneet A beach lover will never forget a visit to North Bay Island. The majestic palm trees and the rich marine fauna truly proclaim the beauty of nature. Beautiful underwater coral reefs enhance the island’s splendor and are a delight for scuba divers and snorkelers. The island is one of the top destinations in the Andaman Islands for water sports, despite not having many other sightseeing alternatives for tourists besides the jungle and the shoreline. It is one of the most unique places to visit in the Andamans. With glimpses of huts and wooden seats to enhance the scene, the beach is lined with white sand and shaded by tall tropical trees. It is frequently visited by visitors who are visiting Ross Island. Beautiful coral reefs on North Bay Island attract tourists who are traveling to this location for the first time. On the island, you may go snorkeling, scuba diving, sea walking, glass boating, and even semi-submerging. Best time to visit: March to May 4. Ross Island Image by Erik Karits A small island in Andaman was named after Captain Daniel Ross and is now renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep by Narendra Modi. Most tourists visit this island to see the remains of a long-gone era. This beautiful island, which was abandoned, watched as nature slowly but surely replaced the man-made structures with banyan trees, eventually destroying it. Some of the structures, including the bakery and neighborhood shops where souvenirs are sold, have been repaired by the Indian Navy. Ross Island is currently a significant historical site with ruins. Just like every other beach in Andaman, Ross island also possesses the blues and greens favorite for every tourist and is one of the most unique places to visit in Andaman. Best time to visit: March to May 5. Baratang Island Image by Siddhesh Rao Baratang Island is a natural marvel in itself. The natural limestone caves add to the beauty of the island. If you are looking for unexplored places in Andaman this is your pick. The region of Baratang is a little less developed. Many natives don’t even know how to speak English. The island is definitely the best place to visit in Port Blair. There are mud volcanoes and mangroves in little, intriguing tidal swamp forests. It is situated between the Middle and South of Andaman and is the first entrance leading north from the capital city. Given that there are hardly any tourist attractions, luxury dining options, or fancy lodging
