Making 2020 A Legendary One with The Enchanting India Travel Bucket List

The year 2019 is gone and 2020 is here which means only one thing for the wandering souls, it is time to follow the new travel bucket list for 2020. While the previous year was great for you, I’m pretty sure, there were still few Indian destinations left unticked on the bucket list which you must include in your travel plans this year. From skydiving to scuba diving to exploring the paranormal destinations, 2020 bucket list should be about taking the adventure to the next level. So, brace yourself because the new year means new travel goals and new travel plans and our blog will help you figure out where to go this year in India in 2020 to tick off some destinations from your bucket list.

Riding across Nelong Valley – The Ladakh of Uttarakhand

If you wish to experience Ladakh without the usual traffic and touristy crowd, then Uttarakhand has got a hidden surprise for you. Matching the tranquillity and geography of Ladakh region, Nelong Valley in Uttarakhand is the destination to see in 2020. One of the most beautiful places to visit in India and an adventure holiday destination, the valley was off-limits to the tourists because of its close proximity to Indo-China border. Opening its roads to tourists, Nelong Valley will surely give you the explorer feel. One of the most unexplored regions in Gangotri National Park, the arid mountains of Nelong valley offers amazing offbeat adventures like trekking and bike rides. A region not much developed, mind you, Nelong Valley is meant only for true adventurers.

How to Reach Nelong Valley?

By Air: Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, which is 350 km from the Nelong Valley. You can take a taxi or public bus to reach Harsil from where you can further proceed to Nelong Valley.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Haridwar and Rishikesh. You can book a taxi from the railway station to reach Nelong Valley.

By Road: Located near Harsil, Nelong Valley is well-connected by roads. However, as per rules, only 6 vehicles with 4 passengers are allowed to enter the zone, every day.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nelong Valley is from May to November. Rest of the year, the valley is closed for tourists.

Explore the mysteries of Sea with Scuba Diving in Andaman

Scuba diving is one of the best activities, which not just acquaints one to a whole new world but also liberates you as you dive deeper into the ocean. If you haven’t ticked scuba diving off your bucket list 2018 then you have to check out the scuba diving options in Andaman. The azure water of Andaman complimented with the scintillating beaches make Andaman a perfect getaway destination for scuba diving. Experience the private beach-like experience and explore the mysteries of seas in Andaman and check this off your bucket list for 2020.

How to Reach Andaman?

By Air: Port Blair is the airport in Andaman, which is well connected to all the major Indian cities.

By Train: Andaman is not connected by rail route.

By Ship: There are regular ships that ferry every week from Kolkata, Vizag and Chennai. Although it’s more time consuming, you get to experience the vastness of the ocean

Best Time to Visit: Although, you can visit Andaman throughout the year, the best time to visit Andaman is from October to February when the climate is moderate.

Places to Visit in Andaman: Cellular Jail National Memorial, Havelock Island, Mount Harriet, Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Baratang Island, Viper Island.

A Romantic Getaway in the White Desert of Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

A place that will leave you astounded and wondering about the tranquillity of nature, Kutch in Gujarat is one of the best destinations for family vacations and a picture-perfect honeymoon destination. Kutch is divided into two parts – Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch. World’s largest salt marsh and the serene landscape offer a quaint romantic getaway under the beautiful sky where the dream of staying with your family or significant other in a lavish tent, while you share stories with your companion over a bonfire comes true.

How to Reach Rann of Kutch?

By Air: Bhuj airport is the nearest airport to Rann of Kutch which is 53 km away. You can book a cab to reach here.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Bhuj, which is connected to all the major railway stations in India.

By Road: Rann of Kutch is well connected by roads and many state-operated buses ply to and from Kutch.

Best Time to Visit Rann of Kutch: One of the hottest places during summer, the best time to visit Rann of Kutch is during the winter season, from November to March. Rannutsav is the biggest attraction in Rann of Kutch and visiting the fair would acquaint you to the local culture and traditions.

Enjoy a Laid Back Vacation at Marari Beach in Kerala

A secluded beach destination near the quaint town of Alleppey, Marari Beach is a perfect destination for a family vacation. The picture-perfect hammock beach nestled in the Arabian Sea is best suited for those who wish to spend some quiet time amidst the nature. Offering the best of beach experience and Kerala’s backwater, Marari Beach has been a trending destination. Also a haven for adventurers, this destination offers water sports like parasailing, surfing, water skiing and deep sea fishing. If you visit in the month of August, you can witness the famous snake boat race in Kerala.

How to Reach Marari Beach?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Kochi, which is 75 km from Marari Beach. You can book a private taxi to reach Marari.

By Train: The nearest major railway station near Marari is Alleppey, from where you can book a taxi to reach Marari Beach.

By Road: Marari is well-connected by roads.

Best Time to Visit Marari Beach: November to March is the best time to visit Marari Beach.

Places to See Around Marari Beach: Thumpoly Beach, Arthunkal, Thiruvizha, Mararikulam Shiva Temple, Kokkamangalam Apostle St. Thomas Pilgrim Centre.

Enjoy the Beachlife at Gokarna, Karnataka

Bored of Goa and seeking a new beach paradise for your travel bucket list 2020? Look no further because Gokarna is the answer to all your dilemmas. A picture-perfect beach destination in the state of Karnataka, Gokarna offers the much-needed privacy and seclusion that Goa fails to provide due to overcrowding. With its pristine beaches and azure waters complimented with some of the most vibrant beach accommodations, Gokarna will satiate all your beach goals with rejuvenating your mind and body.

How to Reach Gokarna?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Goa which is around 110 km from Gokarna. You can book a taxi or take public buses to reach Gokarna.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Gokarna Road railway station which is 8 km from the city. You can hire a taxi from the station to reach Gokarna.

By Road: Gokarna is well-connected by roads.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the moderate temperature allows an ideal day exploration.

Places to Visit in Gokarna: Om Beach and Kudle Beach are two of the best beaches in Gokarna. Visit Mahabaleshwara Temple for a quaint religious experience in Gokarna.

Explore the Last Villages of India, Chitkul and Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh

The last Indian villages along the Indo-China border in Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul and Kalpa are the well-hidden gems. Nestled deep in the Himalayan mountains, Kalpa and Chitkul can be the best destinations to visit in 2020. These remote villages will refresh your mind and body while providing you with the much need perspective of life. If you are one of those who seek quaint getaways, Chitkul and Kalpa offer hundreds of sites where you could just sit and contemplate. Staying in the homestays in Chitkul and Kalpa will help you get an insight into the local lifestyle of Himalayan villages.

How to Reach Chitkul and Kalpa?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Shimla, which is 240 km from Kalpa. You can book a taxi to reach Kalpa or take HRTC bus to Kalpa and Chitkul.

By Train: Train is not the most effective mode to reach Kalpa. The nearest railway station is in Shimla, which is a narrow gauge route.

By Road: Kalpa and Chitkul are well connected by roads and reaching Kalpa and Chitkul via road is a memorable experience with scenic landscapes accompanying you throughout the journey. HRCT buses are operated from Delhi and Shimla to Kalpa and Chitkul.

Best Time to Visit: Being tranquil hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Kalpa and Chitkul can be visited throughout the year. Winters in Kalpa and Chitkul can be extremely cold and roads to Chitkul are closed during winters because of heavy snowfall. However, Kalpa remains open throughout the year.

Places to Visit in Chitkul and Kalpa: Kailash Shivling Rock and Chandika temple are two of the major religious attractions in Kalpa. Kagyupa Temple, Baspa River Front and Mathi temple are tourist attractions in Chitkul.

Bow Down to the Prowess of Nature in the Zanskar Region, Ladakh

Seldom do you ever come across a settlement in such a remote destination, but Zanskar region is one such exception. One of the most remote Himalayan regions, this destination in Ladakh is rather an experience of the prowess of mother nature. Completely cut off during winters with only the frozen Zanskar river as the way in and out, Zanskar region gives us the much-needed perspective of the life. One can attempt the famous Chadar in the winter season to make the most of the year 2020.

How to Reach Zanskar?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Leh, which is 460 km from Zanskar. You can reach Zanskar via public bus or taxi.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Banihal, which is 560 km from Zanskar. You can book a taxi to reach Zanskar or take the public bus.

By Road: Zanskar is connected by roads, but most of them close in the winters and the only way to reach Zanskar is through Chadar Trek.

Best Time to Visit Zanskar: The best time to visit Zanskar is from July to early September when the roads are open and the temperature is not extremely cold. However, if you wish to do the Chadar trek during winters, December to January is the best time to visit Zanskar.

Places to Visit in Zanskar: Phuktal Monastery, Stongdey Monastery, Zangla, Panikhar, Drang Drung Glacier are the major tourist attractions in Zanskar.

Trek to Shiva’s abode Shrikhand Mahadev, Himachal Pradesh

Primarily known for its religious significance, Shrikhand Mahadev Trek is a blend of spirituality and nature. The legend says that there was once a demon named Bhasmasur who, through his hard penance, impressed Lord Shiva. He was given a power which is known as Bhasma Kangan, which has the power to turn anything into stone. Bhasmasur, soaked in his power and pride, tried to turn Lord Shiva into ash but he with the help of Lord Vishnu, escaped to caves on top of the mountain which is now called Shrikhand Mahadev. With the sight of vast Kullu mountains and Himalayan peaks, Shrikhand Mahadev Trek provides all the thrills of extensive treks. Located at a height of 5,227m, the trek is one of the best things to do in 2020. A 5-day trek, Shrikhand Mahadev Trek takes you’re through the hidden gems of Kullu villages and introduces you to the vastness of Kullu peaks.

How to Reach Shrikhand Mahadev?

The trek starts from Jaon village near Nirmand.

By Air: The nearest airport is in Shimla, from where you can take a bus or hire a private taxi to reach Jaon.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Shimla.

By Road: Jaon village is well-connected by roads, with buses plying from Shimla to Rampur. From Rampur, you can hire a private taxi to reach Jaon village.

Best Time to do Shrikhand Mahadev Trek: Late May to mid-October is the best time for Shrikhand Mahadev Trek. However, an organised pilgrimage tour is organised in the month of July or August.

Major Attractions on Shrikhand Mahadev Trek: Being a famous pilgrimage destination in Kullu region, Shrikhand Mahadev also offers the scenic view of Kullu mountains, Rangrik and Jorkandan ranges of Kinnaur and Hansbeshan and other surrounding peaks in the south-east of Satluj river.

Free Fall from 10,000 Feet While Skydiving in Mysore

One of the most adventurous things to do, skydiving can be one of those best things to happen in 2020 with you. If you haven’t experienced it yet or planning to try it, skydiving in Mysore is believed to be one of the best experience in India. Ideal for both beginners and professionals, skydiving in Mysore offers all sorts of options from tandem jump with a trainer to free falling. Mysore ensure that you get all the adrenaline rush with all the safety measures.

How to Reach Mysore?

By Air: The nearest airport is the new Bangalore Airport, which is 170 km from Mysore. You can book a private taxi or take the public bus to reach Mysore from the airport.

By Train: Mysore has its own railway station which is well-connected to all major Indian cities.

By Road: Mysore is well-connected via roads and many government operated buses operate to and from Mysore.

Best Time for Skydiving in Mysore: Months from October to February is the best time to skydive in Mysore.

Places to visit in Mysore: Mysore Palace, Lalitha Mahal, Jagmohan Palace, Railway Museum, Karanji Lake, St. Philomena Church are the famous tourism attractions in Mysore.

Unravel the Secrets of Himalayas on the Milam Glacier Trek

A trek so beautiful and picturesque, Milam Glacier trek takes you across the picturesque places where you walk on glaciers, passing through dense forests and pitch tents under a clear sky. Offering a chance to enjoy nature in its purest form, Milam Glacier trek is perfect for your travel bucket list 2020. The trek was closed to the public for three decades and it reopened in 1992. The traces of Indo-China war are still visible en route the trekking trails. With Mt. Trisuli (23,209 feet) and Hardeol (23,461 feet) appearing to be within touching distance, the trek will leave you wanting for more. Apart from the serene glaciers, you can also explore the quaint town of Munsiyari.

Starting Point of Milam Glacier Trek: Munsiyari would be the starting point of the trek.

Trek Route: Munsiyari – Lilam – Bugdyar – Martoli – Ganghar – Pachu – Milam – Milam Glacier – Rilkot – Bugdyar – Lilam – Munsiyari.

Highlight of Milam Glacier Trek: Milam Glacier, view of Mt. Trishul & Hardeol.

Height of Milam Glacier: 13,612 feet

When to do Milam Glacier Trek: April-June & September-October

Duration of Milam Glacier Trek: 9 Days

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, mainly because of steep ascent.

Exploring the Secrets of Gurez Valley, Jammu and Kashmir

A natural paradise which was predicted by Sir Walter Lawrence in 1895 to be the future popular Himalayan tourist spot has yet not made its mark in the travelling radar. Once off-limits for tourists, Gurez Valley today welcomes guests with its traditional Kashmiri welcome and scenic Himalayan landscapes. An offbeat destination in Kashmir, Gurez Valley offers a raw experience of the untouched Kashmiri traditions and villages. From its mesmerising mountains to its tourmaline waters of the Kishenganga River and the vibrant local villages, Gurez Valley would be a perfect destination for your 2020 travel bucket list.

How to Reach Gurez Valley?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Srinagar which 125 km from Gurez. You can book a taxi to reach Gurez.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Udhampur, which is 350 km from the Gurez Valley. You can hire a taxi or take a public bus to reach Gurez from Udhampur.

By Road: Gurez is well-connected by roads, with state operated buses plying to and from Gurez Valley.

Best Time to Visit Gurez Valley: The best time to visit Gurez is from May to October. Gurez remains inaccessible during winters because of heavy snowfall.

Places to Visit in Gurez Valley: Habba Khatoon, Harmukh, Tulail Valley and Dawar are major attractions in Gurez Valley. Razdan Pass is one of the best places in Gurez Valley to experience the mountains of the region.

Drive between Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal at Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu

An abandoned town on the edge end of Rameswaram, Dhanushkodi is ideally nestled between Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal.  Dhanushkodi was believed to be the place where Lord Ram constructed Ram Setu to cross the Indian Ocean to reach Sri Lanka. A place where nature and man become one, Dhanushkodi is one of the most picturesque destinations to see in India.

How to Reach Dhanushkodi?

By Air:

Madurai International Airport is the nearest airport, which is 200 km from Dhanushkodi. You can hire a private taxi to reach here.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Rameshwaram, which is well connected to all major Indian cities.

By Road:

Dhanushkodi is well-connected by roads.

Best Time to Visit Dhanushkodi: Although you can visit Dhanushkodi throughout the year, months from October to February are the best time to visit Dhanushkodi as the weather is pleasant and the waves are not extreme.

Places to Visit in Dhanushkodi: Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Island, Adam’s Bridge, Church and Station Ruins, Ramar Patham Temple, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park.

Live with Head Hunting Tribes in Longwa, Nagaland

How would you feel about being around a tribe who boasts the human head collection, hunted by the person himself? One of the few surviving tribes in Nagaland, Konyak tribe is the only remaining head-hunting tribe who were believed to be a fierce group of people until 1970. Distinguished by their pierced ears and tattoos on their entire body, Konyak Tribe also exhibit facial tattoos that are earned by taking an enemy’s head. Visiting Longwa Island is like venturing into a unique culture and traditions. You won’t find expensive restaurants or homestays, rather just a unique culture is what this place has to offer.

How to Reach Longwa?

By Air: The nearest airport is Dimapur Airport, which is 298 km from Longwa in Nagaland. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach here.

By Train: Longwa is not connected by rail routes.

By Road: You can easily reach Longwa via roads.

Best Time to Visit Longwa: November to April is the best time to visit Longwa as the weather is pleasant and ideal for day excursions.

Places to Visit around Longwa: Located in the Mon region of Nagaland, the area is known for its tribal lifestyle. You can visit Shangnyu Village, Chui Village and Veda Peak near Longwa.

Watch the Paranormal World at Kuldhara, Rajasthan

About 35 km from Jaisalmer lies the eerie town of Kuldhara. An abandoned village with a numerous alleged backstory, it is believed to be haunted. One of the major tourist attractions in Rajasthan, Kuldhara has a gothic aura to it. A story suggests that a colony of Paliwal Brahmins lived here, who abandoned the village after Diwan was hell-bent on marrying the village chief’s daughter against chief’s will. After witnessing the wrath of the Diwan, the villagers abandoned the town, cursing that no other civilisation would be able to call Kuldhara their home. Amidst the ruins of the village, one can sense an eerie silence surrounding the place. Is it haunted or is it not? There is only one way to find out, by visiting it.

How to Reach Kuldhara?

By Air: The near airport is in Jodhpur which is 315 km from Kuldhara. You can book a taxi to reach Kuldhara.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Jaisalmer which is 30 km from Kuldhara. You can book a taxi to reach here.

By Road: Kuldhara is well connected by roads with many state-run buses plying to and from Kuldhara.

Best time to Visit Kuldhara: November to March is the best time to visit Kuldhara as the pleasant winter weather allows for an ideal day exploration.

Places to Visit around Kuldhara: Visit the nearby town of Jaisalmer and visit Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake and Bada Bagh, Go for Desert Safari in Jaisalmer, Visit Patwon ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli.

Interact with Nature and Wildlife at Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a natural haven for endangered and exotic species of flora and fauna, Sundarbans National Park is a national park, tiger reserve and an integral biosphere reserve in the vibrant state of West Bengal. Home to animals like Royal Bengal Tiger, Saltwater Crocodiles, Olive Ridley Turtles and Ganga Dolphins, Sunderbans offers an explicit interaction with nature and wildlife. In 2020, it can be a great idea to visit Sundarbans to spot tigers and enjoying the unique boat safari amidst the mangrove.

How to Reach Sundarbans National Park?

By Air: The nearest airport is Dum Dum Airport in Kolkata, which is 166 km from Sundarbans National Park. You can take a taxi to reach here.

By Train: The nearest railhead is at Canning, which is 48 km from Sundarbans National Park. You can take a private taxi to reach Sundarbans National Park.

By Road: Sundarbans National Park is accessible via roads.

Best Time to Visit Sunderbans National Park: November to February is the best time to visit Sunderbans National Park as the weather is clear and dry, ideal for day excursions.

Things to do in Sunderbans National Park: Boat Safari in Sunderbans National Park for Ganga Dolphins and Great Bengal Tiger. Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary for bird watching and Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project to witness the royal Saltwater Crocodile.

Here you go, your 2020 travel plans are all set.  So now, book your tickets and pack your bags and check these destinations of your bucket list and ensure that the year 2020 is a legendary one.

Well, if you’re looking for such adventure tours in places like these, you can contact us at Tour My India. For best holiday & sightseeing tour packages, you can call us at +91-9212553106 or send us your queries at info@tourmyindia.com

For any other queries, feel free to post your questions in the comment section below.