With the pandemic not yet over (though slowly receding) and the travel bug biting some of us, safety is our first priority while chalking out a getaway.
Popular destinations are often milling with crowds, and hence seem relatively less safe. However, there are a host of options that you can explore without worrying (too much) about safety and sanitization.
Below are 10 handpicked and unexplored destinations in Goa and Maharashtra that you can check out:
GOA
Chorao
An island along the Mandovi river, Chorao is home to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. The town has a sparse population, and you can take lazy walks or even cycle and explore the town.Camurlim
A picturesque village set by the Chapora River, Camurlim boasts of paddy fields, riverside villas and homestays, and plenty of flora and fauna. You can take a boat-ride and enjoy the sunset by the river while sipping on Feni, if that's your thing.
- Divar Island
Historically significant and with not many stay options barring one guest house, Divar is a remote island along the Mandovi River. For those who love a slice of the past, there are a lot of ancient ruins and churches that can be explored here.
- Raneache Zuem
The smallest island in Goa, Raneache Zuem offers the susegad lifestyle that Goa is famous for. You can relax by the backwaters and laze around the island which is very sparsely populated.
- Vanxim Island
Known for its mangroves, Vanxim is a remote destination with a population of just about 300 people. For those who want to be cut off from the city life and chatter, Vanxim is a great option.
- Sao Jacinto Island
Located near the airport and on the way to mainland Goa, this island has plenty of green cover which has been maintained by the locals. The island has old Portuguese style villas, homes and churches for those interested in architecture.
- Netravali
Home to a wildlife sanctuary of the same name which also happens to be the biggest sanctuary in Goa, a trip to the national park is worthwhile - don't miss the waterfalls. The area has quiet hamlets where you can take a stroll and enjoy local cuisine.
- Ponda
Known for its rich cultural heritage, Ponda is home to the famous butterfly sanctuary. You can also make a trip to the Savoi Spice Plantation and explore some interesting temples in the town.
- Mollem
Known as Goa’s Green Heart, Mollem is home to a national park of the same name. The village is a biodiversity hotspot, home to plenty of wildlife and also the famous Dudhsagar Waterfall.
- Pequeno
Also known as Bat Island, this location is popular among snorkelling enthusiasts, as the island is surrounded by coral reefs. There are plenty of camping spots to choose from, to enjoy stargazing at night.
MAHARASHTRA
- Lonar
Tucked away in a remote part of Aurangabad, Lonar gets its name from the eponymous lake which was created when a meteorite hit earth. The lake is 6,000 sq ft and surrounded by ancient temples.
- Vikramgad
A small village near Palghar, Vikramgad is best known as the place of origin of Warli paintings. There are multiple nature trails and eco-friendly stays in the area. One can hike to the Pilucha Dhabdhaba Waterfalls or have a private picnic in the forest.
- Chikhaldara
Located in Amravati, Chikhaldara is known for the Melghat Tiger Reserve, multiple forts which one can trek to, waterfalls and coffee cultivation. There are also lakes and temples that one can visit.
- Tamhini Ghat
Located in Pune, this ghat is surrounded by dense woods and deep valleys which make it a favourite with trekkers, campers and hikers. One can also plan a day-long road-trip, as Tamhini is nestled in the Western Ghats between Mulshi and Kolad.
- Amboli
Amboli is at an altitude of 690m. The hill station is relatively remote - and unexplored. It boasts of picturesque streams, waterfalls, and forts.
- Dapoli
For those who love sun-soaked beaches, Dapoli, located in Ratnagiri, is a must-visit. There are a whole bunch of water sports you can try at the numerous beaches in this coastal town. There are also historic forts, caves, and temples to explore.
- Guhagar
The eponymous beach in Guhagar happens to be one of the cleanest and least polluted beaches in Maharashtra. You can enjoy some really wonderful non-vegetarian food, read a book, enjoy the solitude and quiet and stroll by the beach, if that’s your cup of tea.
- Sandhan Valley
While there aren’t any conventional stay options around there, if you are up for a camping trip, Sandhan Valley is just the perfect spot. Surrounded by the Konkan kada, there are a number of adventure activities such as rappelling and trekking to do.
- Pali
Known for the Ganesh temple in the area, Pali is otherwise a quiet destination for those seeking solitude. There are plenty of homestays, villas and farmhouses that one can book to explore the surrounding hills, waterfalls and nature trails in the town.
- Panhala
Another little-known hill station in Maharashtra, Panhala, in Kolhapur, is best known for its historical fort from the Shivaji era. It is the smallest city in Maharashtra and has a cool climate throughout the year, making a trek to the fort extremely pleasant and worthwhile.