100 Beautiful Places in India (Part-3)

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100 Beautiful Places in India (Part-3)

Arunachal Pradesh

21. Nuranang Falls

Hidden in the wonders of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is the magnificent Nuranang Falls. The falls are about 100 meters high, which might not be much when compared to several other waterfalls in the world.

[Don't miss our list on 45 of the most beautiful waterfalls in India]

However, when combined with the pristine surroundings, it becomes a must visit when in Arunachal Pradesh. Folklore has it that the falls are named after a girl who helped an Indian soldier during the 1962 Indo-Sino War. Also sometimes referred to as the Bong Bong Falls, they also generate electricity for the district.

22. Sela Pass

Source: Anirudh Rao – Flickr

Sela Pass is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. Connecting Tawang district to other parts of the country is the Sela Pass. This mountain pass is about 13,800 feet high and gives you some really scenic views of the surrounding views. With its high elevation, you can almost feel the clouds passing through your hands here.

Image Source: rajkumar1220 – Flickr

During the winter months, most of the pass is frozen with snow, with temperatures dropping to well below the zero degree mark. For some gorgeous views and panoramic shot for the lens, head to Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh. You will be delighted.

Nagaland

23. Dzukou Valley

Located at an altitude of a little more than 2000 meters above sea level is the gorgeous Dzukou Valley of Nagaland. The valley lies on the border of Manipur and Nagaland, behind the majestic Japfu Peak. During the summer season, the valley is blessed with different species of flowers, the highlight of which is the Dzukou Lilly.

The name of the valley literally translates to “Cold Water”, and refers to the stream of river that flows through the valley. It is a short and slightly challenging trek to the valley, but nevertheless rewarding for the senses. When in this part of the country, the valley is a must-visit. [Check our top 5 things to do in Nagaland.]

Sikkim

24. Gurudongmar Lake

Image Source: soumyajit pramanick – Flickr

Located at an altitude of a little more than 5000 meters above sea level is Gurudongmar Lake. The lake is located in Sikkim, close to the Chinese border and is known for its scenic views. The fresh water lake remains frozen for most part of the year because of jaw dropping temperatures.

Image Source: Nara Simhan – Flickr

But when the ice thaws, it gives way to crystal clear waters that just take your breath away. The rugged terrain around the lake adds to the experience. However, you should be prepared for some hard work if you want to visit this lake, because it involves a sufficiently challenging trek.

Image Source: Kartik MS – Flickr

25. Goecha La Pass

Source: AndEggs – Flickr

Another gorgeous mountain pass in the Himalayan region is Goecha La Pass in Sikkim. The pass serves as the base camp for those who wish to climb Mount Kanchenjunga, world’s third highest peak. In order to reach the pass, you need to start trekking from Yuksom. It takes about 7 days to trek to the pass.

Image Source: juicyrai – Flickr

Along the way, you are greeted with some beautiful rhododendrons and other highlights of the region. View of Mount Kanchenjunga from Goecha La Pass is just amazing.

Assam

26. Majuli

Image Source: Rocky Barua – Flickr

A quaint little island in the state of Assam is Majuli. Once upon a time, the island was spread across an area of about 1,250 square kilometers. However, the raging River Brahmaputra has eroded a large part of the island, and what is left now is a little over 400 square kilometers of area.

[North East India has many more beautiful places than you would have imagined.]

Image Source: rajkumar1220 – Flickr

Nevertheless, it is one of the most beautiful places in India. Bird watching is a highlight here, and so are the colorful tribes of the region.

Manipur

27. Loktak Lake

Image Source: Hemam Bishwajeet – Flickr

Manipur is home to world’s only floating lake, the Loktak Lake. It is also the largest fresh water lake in this part of the country. The floating mass of vegetation and organic matter give the lake a floating appearance. A part of the lake is home to Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the habitat for Sangai.

Image Source: indiawaterportal.org – Flickr

Sangai, or Manipur brow antlered deer is a rare species which is on the brink of extinction. The beauty of the lake itself and the surrounding flora and fauna make this region of Manipur an absolute delight.

Image Source: Hemam Bishwajeet – Flickr

West Bengal

28. Sandakphu

Image Source: Bappaditya Dasgupta – Flickr

Located close to Singalila National Park in West Bengal is Sandakphu, or Sandakfu, the highest peak of the region. You need to endure a moderately difficult trek in order to reach the summit, but you will be rewarded with awesome views of the Kanchendzonga Peak.

Image Source: Nicolas Mirguet – Flickr

There is even a small village at the top of the peak where you can find some hostels for a stay. Of course, there is nothing like camping under the starlit sky and enjoying a cool mountain breeze.

29. Darjeeling Tea Gardens

Image Source: Antony Vance Clicks – Flickr

The lush tea gardens of Darjeeling are also among the list of beautiful places in India. Tea gardens of Darjeeling are not only known for their flavorsome tea cultivation, but also for their scenic beauty. Endless stretches of tea plants which tends to vanish with the mist, creates a magical spell on the visitors.

Image Source: Vikram Singh – Flickr

Image Source: Antony Vance Clicks – Flickr

Gujarat

30. Kutch

Image Source: Roshan Panjwani – Flickr

Imagine barren lands where you can push full throttle and have the thrill of your life? That’s Rann of Kutch for you, in Gujarat. Kutch is a shallow wetland, which means it gets submerged during the monsoon season because of rains.

Image Source: Anurag Agnihotri – Flickr

However, during the summer months, the water recedes, giving way to salty land which is barren yet beautiful. The Rann of Kutch is known for road trips in India. It is also known as a habitat for exotic species of birds and animals. There are quite a few wildlife reserves in the region, the most prominent of which is the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary.