If you are planning a trip to India and want to find the real heart and soul you can visit its small towns and villages that boasts an authentic, rural way of life, with raw beauty, old-world charm, serenity and a rich cultural heritage, making them worthy of recognition.
Here you can find a list of the most interestng small towns and villages to visit in India

Mandawa (Rajasthan - India)
Located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Mandawa is famed for its colourful and gloriously standing forts and havelis, complete with mirror work, exquisite carvings and spectacular frescoes. The town takes you back to the ostentatious era of the Maharajas of Rajasthan.

Nako (Himachal Pradesh - India)
Nako is an undiscovered realm of beauty. It is a lakeside hamlet, set on India-China border. The snow-covered mountains, lush greenery and pristine lakes make it one of the most beautiful villages in Himachal. Visitors can go boating on the Nako Lake. And, when the winter sets in, it transforms into a magical wonderland wrapped in sheets of snow, making it perfect for skiing.

Kasol (Himachal Pradesh - India)
Often referred as a ‘hippie heaven’ or ‘backpackers’ paradise’, Kasol is brimming with international expats, mainly Israelis, who now call this hamlet home. The hamlet is a mix of laid-back vibe with a plethora of charming cafés, natural beauty and trekking trails.

Munsiyari (Uttarakhand - India)
If you want to experience an organic way of life, look no further than Munsiyari; a tiny village in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by snow-laden Himalayan peaks, this picturesque village offer a perfect respite from the chaotic city life. Wedged between the borders of India, Nepal and Tibet, breathtaking mountain trekking trails abound in this village, such as the Namik, Milam and Ralam glacier treks. The region is also home to a variety of bird species. The short jaunt outside the village will put you amid the spectacular scenery of the surrounding villages of Sarmoli and Darkot.

Chopta (Uttarakhand - India)
Lying in the lap of Himalayas, Chopta is unspoilt by urbanisation and offers a perfect retreat to relax in the nature’s midst. Rich in diversity of flora and fauna, fresh mountain air and a plethora of trekking trails, this tiny hamlet is a must-visit. If you love the snow, visit from December to February, as the village is usually wrapped up in sheets of snow.

Kalap (Uttarakhand - India)
Located in the upper reaches of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 7,500 ft, Kalap is an untouched beauty where you can breathe in pollution-free air and bask in nature. Surrounded by fragrant deodar and pine forests, you can go hiking along its charming terrains, indulge in organic farming, wander around the village and meet locals, and relish the authentic locally grown food.

Poovar (Kerala - India)
Poovar is a small town, whose historic and natural beauty remains untainted, which makes it a perfect place for those looking for peace and quiet.
Visitors can stay in a houseboat on the emerald backwaters of Poovar and soak in the stunning vistas of the surroundings filled with tropical green forests.

Panamik (Ladakh - India)
Sitting pretty on the banks of the Nubra River amid the snow-clad peaks, the Panamik is known for its hot spring that is said to have therapeutic properties. There are monasteries and plenty of trekking options available in and around the village.

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