Hidden Gems: 15 underrated places in India to celebrate christmas and new year 2025

15 Underrated Places in India to Celebrate Christmas and New Year 2025 (Image: Canva)

Looking for an unforgettable way to ring in Christmas and New Year 2025? Skip the tourist crowds and uncover these 15 hidden gems in India. From serene mountain retreats to untouched villages, these offbeat destinations promise a fresh, authentic, and peaceful holiday experience.

1. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh | Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Mandu, a perfect blend of historical ruins and stunning landscapes. With its charming forts and tranquil surroundings, it’s an ideal place for a peaceful New Year.

2. Unakoti, Tripura | Hidden deep in Tripura’s hills, Unakoti is a spiritual treasure waiting to be discovered. Marvel at the awe-inspiring rock carvings and sculptures, and soak in the serenity of this untouched gem.

3. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh | Lambasingi, often called the “Kashmir of Andhra,” welcomes you with its cool, misty mornings and scenic tea plantations. Celebrate the holidays in this quiet village for a refreshing, offbeat escape.

4. Malana, Himachal Pradesh | Far from the usual tourist hotspots, Malana is a secluded paradise where you can experience a unique culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Ring in the New Year in this peaceful Himalayan village.

5. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya | Known as Asia’s cleanest village, Mawlynnong is an eco-tourism haven surrounded by lush landscapes and charming waterfalls. Celebrate the holiday season in this hidden gem, where nature and tranquility reign supreme.

6. Meghamalai, Madurai | Escape to Meghamalai, where tea gardens stretch as far as the eye can see, and the cool mountain air invites relaxation. This offbeat destination in Tamil Nadu is the perfect spot for a peaceful, scenic New Year.

7. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh | Shoja, a tranquil village in Himachal Pradesh, offers mesmerizing mountain views and quiet forest walks. Celebrate the festive season surrounded by nature’s beauty in this serene corner of the Himalayas.

8. Majuli, Assam | Majuli, the world’s largest river island, is a cultural treasure nestled in the Brahmaputra River. Celebrate New Year in this peaceful setting, exploring its beautiful landscapes and rich Assamese heritage.

9. Gavi, Kerala | Tucked within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Gavi is a nature lover’s paradise. Experience the beauty of Kerala’s lush forests and tranquil lakes—perfect for a serene, off-the-beaten-path New Year celebration.

10. Mokokchung, Nagaland | Mokokchung offers a slice of authentic Naga culture with its picturesque villages, mountain views, and traditional festivities. For a unique and culturally rich New Year, this charming town is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

11. Osian, Rajasthan | For a unique desert retreat, head to Osian in Rajasthan. With its ancient temples and vast sand dunes, it offers a calm yet exciting New Year celebration. Discover a world of history and culture in this quiet oasis.

12. Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep | Escape to the crystal-clear waters and untouched beaches of Bangaram Island in Lakshadweep. Whether you’re lounging on the sand or exploring vibrant coral reefs, this remote island is the ultimate New Year hideaway.

13. Yousmarg, Jammu and Kashmir | Yousmarg, a hidden gem in Jammu and Kashmir, enchants with its lush meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. Celebrate the holidays surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and a sense of tranquility.

14. Chaukori, Uttarakhand | Chaukori, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, offers sweeping views of the mighty Himalayas. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, it’s an ideal location for a quiet, nature-filled New Year getaway.

15. Dholavira, Gujarat | Dholavira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an intriguing blend of history and nature. Explore the remnants of an ancient Harappan civilization, surrounded by the stark beauty of the Kutch desert. This hidden gem provides a unique and enriching New Year experience.

For a New Year’s celebration like no other, ditch the crowds and embrace the tranquility of these hidden gems across India. Whether you're drawn to the spiritual serenity of Unakoti or the historical allure of Mandu, these offbeat destinations offer something unique for every traveler. So pack your bags and set off on a fresh, peaceful adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime.