Are you a water baby? Or love venturing onto water sports? But fed up of travelling to mainstream locations? Or maybe, you’re someone who’s on the lookout for some insanely beautiful hidden gems to celebrate your private moments? Fret not. We’ve got you covered!
Imagine yourself swinging on a hammock by the beach & enjoying a relaxing afternoon siesta. Or maybe, take a stroll around the sandy shores and witness mesmerizing sunsets with your loved one? Sounds interesting, isn’t it?
So, here we’ve curated a list of 7 secret islands in India to escape to in 2022 that are still miles away from the heavy tourist influx. Check them out!
1) Divar Island, Goa
Situated 10 km upstream from Panjim, Goa, Divar Island is one of the most unexplored & virgin islands in India. If you want to experience the local culture with a countryside atmosphere, then this is the place for you.
How to reach: Catch a ferry from Viceroy’s Arch in Old Goa
Things to see: European-style villas and Portuguese landmarks
Best time to visit: November - February
2) Majuli Island, Assam
Being one of the biggest river islands in India and the world, Majuli Island deserves genuine recognition and makes for great travel acclaim. From bewitching sceneries to mouth-watering local preparations, Majuli has it all for travellers who want to experience the unconventional.
How to reach: Catch a local ferry from Jorhat. There are only two ferries that take you to Majuli – one departs at 10 am & the other at 3 pm.
Things to see: Mishing Village and 21 Satras
Best time to visit: October - December
3) St. Mary’s Islands, Karnataka
Still, fantasizing over visiting Ireland’s Giant Causeway? It’s time to check out its doppelganger & the lesser-known but India’s very own Causeway – The St. Mary’s Islands in Karnataka. Located approximately 15 minutes away from the coast of Malpe, St. Mary’s Islands offers mesmerizing views of rock formations and coconut plantations.
How to reach: Catch a boat from Malpe coast. A round trip will cost you somewhere around INR 500.
Things to see: Basaltic rock formations & coconut gardens
Best time to visit: December - January
4) Munroe Island, Kerala
Tucked in God’s own country Kerala, Munroe Island surely deserves to be on every nature seeker’s list. You can enjoy a pristine stay at the houseboats, gaze at the serene & natural backwaters and soak in all the beauty to get a fair taste of Kerala.
How to reach: Catch a ferry from Kollam (25km away from Munroe Island); There are mainly two ferries that depart from Kollam to Munroe – one leaves at 9 am and the other at 2 pm.
Things to see: Varkala Beach, Jatayu rock, Thenmala and Palaruvi falls.
Best time to visit: October - May
5) Grand Island, Goa
Up for some ecstatic scuba diving sessions? We’ve got you! Located just a few minutes away from Goa, Grand Island makes for an amazing day trip spot and offers clean & untouched beaches that are sure to elevate your experience.
How to reach: Ask your resort to arrange a to & fro ferry ride to Grand Island; depending on your departure point, it may take from 20 – 40 minutes.
Things to see: Spice plantations, Dolphins point, Suzy’s wreck dive & sail rock dive
Best time to visit: October - May
6) Neil Island
Quite unknown but extremely beautiful, Neil Island is located just a few minutes away from the famous Havelock island in Andaman & Nicobar. This exotic location makes for a perfect honeymoon destination for couples & love birds. Also, this tropical island has quite a romantic atmosphere that never fails to lure people from near and far.
How to reach: Take a ferry ride from Havelock or Port Blair
Things to see: Sitapur beach & Bharatpur beach
Best time to visit: October - February
7) Peacock Island, Assam
Situated in Assam, Peacock Island, also known as Umananda Island, is said to be the smallest inhabited river island in India and the world. It’s still hidden from the sights of the maddening crowd & holds a significant place in the hearts of Assamese people. Perched on the mighty Brahmaputra, Peacock Island is truly a haven for travellers.
How to reach: Catch a local ferry from Guwahati anywhere from 7 am to 5 pm (10 min away from Umananda)
Things to see: Umananda temple, Maati centre, Northbrook Gate & Madan Kamdev
Best time to visit: October - April
So, what are waiting for? Start planning your vacation and get ready to make the most of 2022... Happy Exploring!
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