
Cities may be fascinating but the traditional roots of any place lie in its villages.
In India, it’s the mud houses, the simple yet scrumptious meals, and the unpolluted surroundings that welcome you to soak in the rural culture and destinations.
Traveling within India is not only about visiting its posh cities and well-known tourist spots.
About exploring the real India by stepping into the many clusters of villages throughout the country.
However, there aren’t many who have woken up to the pristine beauty and unique landscapes that rural tourist destinations in India have on offer.
Here are five mesmerizing tourist rural destinations in India which you wouldn’t want to miss at any cost!
Hodka Village in Gujarat
Located in the district of Kutch, Hodka derives its name from the Gujarati word “Hodi” meaning boat.
The colorful attires, the rich culture, and the breathtaking art and craft.
Hodka have contributed to making it one of the most popular rural tourist destinations of India.
While in Hodka, you can take a trip around the village with the local guides, popularly known as “bhomiyas”.
They will not only show you around but also provide you with tidbits of information about the lifestyle of the locals.
If you head out towards the wetlands of Chhari Dhand, you can find a diverse range of migratory as well as resident birds.
Home to at least 55 animal species and over 50,000 bird species, Chhari Dhand wakes the nature lover in you.
Hodka is well-known for its traditional art and craft.
With every hamlet in the village coming up with their own distinct patterns and prints, your eyes will never get used to the rich artwork of this place.
Leather work is the most popular form of craft in Hodka.
Reach
Hodka lies at a distance of about 32.2 kilometers from Kutch and you should be there within 42 minutes by road.
Travel tip
Take the overnight camel safaris in Hodka.
They are the most famous tourist attractions here.

Image courtesy WikiCommons
Banavasi in Karnataka
Existing since 4000 BC, Banavasi was formerly known as ‘Vanavasaka’ followed by ‘Jayanthipura’ before coming to be known as Banavasi.
Being one of the oldest temple towns in India, this place has its own significance as per the religious aspect.
The Varada River flowing on its three sides adds to the aura of this serene village in Karnataka.
Although Banavasi has pleasant weather throughout the year, the months between September and March are ideal for a visit.
Banavasi’s popularity lies in its Car Festival, hosted in the month of March.
Do not forget to try out the delicious meals from the khanavalis during your stay in Banavasi.
Reach
Located around 374 kilometers from Bangalore, the nearest railways station from Banavasi lies in Haveri, about 70 kilometers away from the village.
Travel tip
During your visit to Banavasi, do not miss the Varnaloka – an art gallery hosted by Shreepad Purohit.
Pipli in Orissa
Pipli is well-known for its gorgeous appliqué work.
Orissa is a storehouse of various unique industries, and this village is no exception.
What’s more?
You can also visit Puri Beach which is only about 37 kilometers from Pipli, a village with a history that dates back to the 10th century.
Previously, the artisans were appointed to cater only to the requirements for the Rath Yatra, like making umbrellas and canopies for the deities.
But today, the artisans of Pipli make everything from handbags to purses, puppets to wall hangings.
Reach
Pipli is about 35 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar railway station and 70 kilometers away from Cuttack junction railway station.
Bhubaneswar Airport lies roughly 45 kilometers away from Pipli.
Travel tip
If you are planning to visit Pipli, the best time will be the months between October and March.
The pleasant weather will make your tour more comfortable.

Image courtesy WikiCommons
Mawlynnong in Meghalaya
Appropriately referred to as “the cleanest village in Asia”, Mawlynnong has several reasons to visit.
Tribal, pristine, and misty, this village is a wild paradise.
Experience the rich wilderness by going for a trek from Mawlynnong to the famous Living Root Bridge constructed out of roots of living trees and over a thousand years old.
The cobbled streets leading to thatched Khasi huts are lined with colorful flowers.
The gurgling water of the Umterming waterfall at the background are beautiful and unforgettable sights.
Reach
Regular flights are available from all metropolitan cities to Guwahati and Shillong.
Mawlynnong lies about 190 kilometers from Guwahati and can be easily reached by public transport.
Travel tip
To experience the real lifestyle of this village, stay at the homestays on the stilts and grab a bite of the delicious local cuisine.
Munsiyari in Uttarakhand
Munsiyari is situated between the borders of India, Tibet, and Nepal.
Is home to three glaciers, namely Milam, Namik, and Ralam Glaciers.
Munsiyari is surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains, with the river Gori Ganga caressing it.
For nature lovers and adventurers, this place is an absolute delight.
Reach
Munsiyari lies 60 kilometers away from Delhi.
There are three routes from Delhi to Munsiyari with picturesque stopovers along the way.
Travel tip
Up for some adventure?
Witness the breathtaking views of the Panchchuli peaks on a two-day trek to Khuliya Top.
You can also set out for a glacier trek to Milam and Ralam Glaciers.
0