10 Off-beat Places to Visit in 2020

If you are one of the curious kinds and want a taste of the unexplored and the unusual, then read on to find out some of the best places to visit in 2020 for your next travel escapade. After all, the Dalai Lama also suggests, “Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.”

1. Kutch

rann-of-kutch-in-gujarat — The white desert of Rann of Kutch

Submerged under water during monsoon and a glistening stretch of white salt otherwise, the Great Rann of Kutch is a masterpiece of Gujarat. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in India. You could see a magical sunset from Bhuj’s historic forts, take a moonlit camel safari in the white desert or learn about traditional handicrafts from artisans settled in ancient Khavda, Dhordo and Hodka villages surrounding the desert. Nearby is Kala Dungar, an amazing place to capture panoramic views of the desert all the way to the Pakistani desert border. You can also visit the port of Mandvi, famous for its beach and 400-year-old shipbuilding yard or the Wild Ass Sanctuary in Dhrangadhra.

Explore Gujarat Holidays Now!

2. Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri is a scenic wonder situated at 4,595 meters in the Changthang region of Ladakh. The largest high-altitude lake in India, it is one of the perfect places to visit in 2020 for some creative inspiration. Located nearby is the ancient Korzok Monastery which is also a home to 70 monks, the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and beautiful Thangka Paintings preserved for centuries. It is one of the most sublime offbeat destinations in the world with snow-clad mountains, abundant natural beauty and rugged landscapes.

Explore Ladakh Holidays Now!

3. Lachung

yumthang-valley-in-lachung — The scenic view of Yumthang Valley

Adventure, serenity, and a snow-capped view of the Himalayas – what else do you need for the perfect getaway? Enriched with blooming meadows and green valleys, Lachung is one of the best places to visit in India. Situated in the rugged terrains of North Sikkim, this hamlet offers plenty to do, a popular activity being the Yumthang Valley trek. This experience will take you through a picture-perfect meadow and on the way you can also take a dip in the Yumesamdong Hot Spring. Across the Lachung River stands the beautiful Lachung Monastery where there are exquisite wall murals and ancient Tibetan statues. Visitors can spend time in nature at the multi-tiered Bhim Nala Falls or feel the spirit of adventure on a trek to the high altitude Zero Point.

Explore Lachung Holidays Now!

4. Spiti

With ancient villages and charming monasteries complementing its peaceful setting, Spiti is an untouched gem and the perfect haven for adventure enthusiasts, photographers and history buffs. The hilltop Ki Monastery houses splendid paintings and scriptures of Lord Buddha and offers unforgettable landscape views. Other attractions include Dhankar village and Tabo monastery. Also, visitors can spot a variety of Himalayan wildlife at Pin Valley National Park and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary.

Explore Himachal Holidays Now!

5. Chopta

view-in-chopta — Capture the unspoiled view of hills in Chopta

Tucked in the Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand, Chopta is a tiny hamlet surrounded by green meadows and majestic mountains. Unspoilt by commercialisation, it is one of the best places to visit in India. The main attraction here is the trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. A further ascent from Tungnath is the Chandrashila summit offering awe-inspiring views of the mighty Himalayan Range. A must-visit spot is Deoria Tal Lake adorned with pine and oak trees, it is one of the best places to travel in 2020.

Explore Uttarakhand Holidays Now!

6. Kazan

The ancient capital of the Tatars, Kazan in Russia is a melting pot of both Eastern and European cultures with a diverse population, glorious museums, mosques and baroque cathedrals celebrating the city’s rich Tatar and Russian history. Sacred sites like the Temple of All Religions, Kazan Kremlin and Kul Sharif Mosque, all pay homage to the existence of one of the most offbeat destinations in the world. Another legendary symbol is Kazan’s highest leaning Suyumbike Tower, also famous for a tragic love story behind it. Eat, explore and enjoy Russia’s exotic charm at one of the most unique places to visit in 2020.

Explore Russia Holidays Now!

7. Petra

ancient-building-of-petra — Learn about the rich past of Petra

Wonderfully carved into canyon rocks, Petra has remained faded as a myth until it was rediscovered in 1812 and is now one of the new Seven Wonders of the Modern World, making it one of the most significant places to visit in 2020. Much can be explored in this Red Rose City, from jaw-dropping ruins and elaborate mausoleums, to holy temples and the epic Treasury made famous by Indiana Jones. The Siq is a dramatic passageway to the historic city you can spend hours wandering around. Along the Street of Facades, you’ll find the ancient Royal Tombs from the Byzantine Empire. Hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice for incredible views of this iconic sandstone city.

Explore Petra Holidays Now!

8. Masai Mara

A paradise for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts, the Masai Mara National Reserve located in South Western Kenya is world-renowned for its abundant population of lions, cheetahs, gazelles and antelopes thriving in dramatic landscapes ranging from wide grasslands, rolling hills and rivers snaking through. From enjoying hot air balloon rides in the sky, exploring the savannahs on foot, embarking on a jeep safari or mingling with the Maasai tribe, go wild here and check Africa off your list of places to visit in 2020!

Explore Masai Mara Holidays Now!

9. Jerusalem

old-city-in-jeruselam — Enjoy a stroll in the ancient streets of Jerusalem

One of Israel’s four holy cities Jerusalem has witnessed critical events in the world of Christianity, making it one of the top places to visit for culture explorers and history buffs. Explore some of the holiest sites in the world like the Western Wall, Mount of Olives and the Hurva Synagogue, all commemorating multiple faiths and traditions. Apart from this you can enjoy cycling along the beautifully landscaped Rakevet Trail. Get a dose of art at cultural museums and savour authentic Middle Eastern delicacies at one of the best places to travel to in 2020.

Explore Jerusalem Holidays Now!

10. Hoi An

Located in the heart of Vietnam, the laidback city of Hoi An is one of best places to visit in 2020 with its emerald rice fields, beautiful beaches and architectural treasures. Explore the streets on a bicycle, take a cultural class to learn about the Vietnamese people, photograph locals in their traditional dwellings or laze around the beaches in this laidback yet delightful city for a charming holiday you’ll wish never ends.

Explore Vietnam Holidays Now!

Book memorable experiences with MakeMyTrip for a divine adventure in these offbeat destinations that are waiting to be explored.