Hidden Treasure for Tourists

Visiting conventional tourist destinations is fun, but there’s something thrilling about visiting places that are unexplored, underrated or simply unknown to the mass. Such destinations have a raw allure that will blow your mind. And since it’s mostly untouched by the majority of the tourist population, the authenticity of its beauty and the excitement of exploring its hidden treasures hits different. Listed below are a handful of such unbeknownst islands across India that must make your travelling bucket list.

Majuli Island, Assam 



World’s biggest river island; Majuli is situated in the Brahmaputra river that flows through Assam. Also called the cultural capital of Assam, this river island is inhabited mostly by tribals. As it is pollution-free, Majuli offers its visitors lush-green picturesque sceneries and beautiful spots for experiencing sunrise and sunsets. The culture of this island is quite unique and the festivals here are filled with dance, music and joy. Majuli serves authentic Assamese food to its tourists. One can also hire a boat and sail downstream the Brahmaputra and enjoy the gentle breeze caressing your face and hair. 

Divar Island, Goa


Image Credits - www.inditales.com

Goa is visited by numerous tourists; national and international, around the year. Though this tiny state is known for its party and hippie culture, nicely tucked in the blanket of forests, in the cradle of the river Mandovi lies the quaint Divar island. 10kms away from Panjim city, this village is yet unexploited by modernisation and commercialisation. This is just the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and a complete contrast to the loud and lively culture of mainstream Goa. Dotted with Portuguese style houses and old traditional churches, Divar and its peace will make you never want to leave 
this place.

St. Mary’s Island, Karnataka



Also commonly known as Coconut Island or Thonsepar, is an archipelago of 4 islands. It is quick 15 minutes boat ride from Malpe in Udupi, Karnataka. The major attraction of this group of islands is the unique hexagonal basaltic rock formations, which are a result of Madagascar’s sub-volcanic separation from India. As your feet leave a trail on the golden grains of beach sand, the foamy waters that crash the surface and the omnipotent breeze create a melodious rhythm that will make you forget your troubles for a while. Coconut Island, Darya Bahadurgarh Island, North and South Islands collectively form St. Mary’s Island. The name of this island has a history of its own. It is believed that Vasco Da Gama had first reached here in 1498 before moving on to Kozhikode in Kerala. During his brief stay here, he planted a cross as a dedication to Mother Mary and hence the name. 

Pamban Island, Tamil Nadu



On the Rama Setu archipelago, between peninsular India and the Sri Lanka coast lies an epitome of natural beauty; Pamban Island also known as Rameswaram Island. It houses one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites - The Rameswaram temple dedicated to Lord Ram. While many visit this island to worship at this iconic temple which is also believed to be the point from where Lord Rama built the bridge to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita, only a few people stay back to experience the quiet recluse this island offers. Its extensive beaches with the skyline visible through a filter of the tall coconut trees, making this island a paradise for not just the religious population but also for nature lovers.