India is full of famous tourist destinations, but the real magic often lies in the places most people overlook. These underrated cities hold stories, flavours, cultures, and landscapes that feel untouched and authentic. They don’t shout for attention — they quietly mesmerize you with their charm. If you love discovering hidden gems, travelling without crowds, and experiencing India in its most raw and beautiful form, this list will open your eyes to places you must visit at least once in your life.
Each of these cities offers something unique: ancient legends, peaceful lakes, unexplored cultures, mouth-watering food, old-world architecture, and a sense of calm that big tourist hubs can never match.
1. Gwalior – The Royal City Nobody Talks About, But Should
Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh is a treasure chest of Indian history. The majestic Gwalior Fort stands tall like a golden crown, said to be one of the most powerful forts in India. Walking through its sandstone walls feels like stepping inside a forgotten era. The quiet palaces, the sculpted temples, and the musical magic of Tansen’s legacy give the city its own soul. Gwalior is heritage in its purest form — untouched, grand, and unforgettable.
Best For: History lovers, architecture fans, culture explorers
Must Visit: Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Palace, Tansen Tomb
How to Reach:
Gwalior has its own airport and a major railway station. Direct flights and trains are available from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, and Jaipur.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹6,000 – ₹12,000 for a 2–3 day trip (stay, food, local travel)
2. Madurai – The Soul of Tamil Nadu’s Culture
Madurai is often called the “Athens of the East,” yet it still remains underrated for many travellers. The heart of the city beats inside the Meenakshi Temple — a place so grand and spiritual that it leaves you speechless. The colourful gopurams, the ancient rituals, the aroma of filter coffee, and the warmth of Tamil culture make Madurai feel alive at every corner. It’s old, it’s vibrant, and it holds more stories than most modern cities combined.
Best For: Cultural tourism, temple architecture, heritage walks
Must Visit: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
How to Reach:
Madurai has an international airport with connections across India. Trains from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Coimbatore are also frequent.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹7,000 – ₹15,000 for a 2–3 day visit
3. Shillong – The Scotland You Never Expected in India
Shillong still feels like a hidden paradise compared to mainstream hill stations. The city is wrapped in rolling hills, misty mornings, pine forests, and beautiful waterfalls. The music culture here is exceptional — every café has its own story, and people love to sing their hearts out. Shillong is peaceful, artistic, and deeply refreshing.
Best For: Nature lovers, music lovers, peaceful getaways
Must Visit: Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake
How to Reach:
Nearest airport is in Guwahati (125 km). From there, shared taxis and cabs take around 3 hours to reach Shillong.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹10,000 – ₹20,000 depending on travel and stay
4. Kochi – Where History Meets the Sea in the Most Beautiful Way
Kochi is not just a coastal city — it’s a melting pot of cultures. From Dutch and Portuguese influences to Jewish quarters and Kathakali performances, Kochi beautifully blends its heritage with modern charm. The lanes of Fort Kochi feel like walking through a storybook, and the Chinese fishing nets create the perfect backdrop for sunset lovers.
Best For: Art, culture, café-hopping, seaside beauty
Must Visit: Fort Kochi, Jewish Synagogue, Marine Drive
How to Reach:
Cochin International Airport is one of India’s busiest. Kochi is also well-connected by rail and road from Kerala’s major cities.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹8,000 – ₹18,000 for a 2–3 day trip
5. Jodhpur – Beyond Blue Walls Lies a Heart Full of Tradition
The “Blue City” is one of Rajasthan’s purest wonders. Its narrow lanes painted in soothing shades of blue, the towering Mehrangarh Fort, and the authentic Rajasthani food make it feel magical. Jodhpur feels personal, warm, and deeply connected to its culture.
Best For: History, food, cultural photography
Must Visit: Mehrangarh Fort, Ghanta Ghar Market
How to Reach:
Jodhpur Airport connects to Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Trains from across Rajasthan and Gujarat are frequent.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹6,000 – ₹14,000 for 2–3 days
6. Bhubaneshwar – The Temple City With Modern Soul
Bhubaneshwar is one of India’s oldest living cities. With over 700 ancient temples, peaceful lakes, and a beautiful balance of tradition and modernity, the city feels calm and culturally rich. Clean roads, incredible food, and soothing vibes make it an underrated gem.
Best For: Spirituality, history, serene travel
Must Visit: Lingaraj Temple, Dhauli Giri, Nandankanan Zoo
How to Reach:
Bhubaneshwar Airport is well-connected to major metros. Trains are available from Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Visakhapatnam.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹6,000 – ₹13,000 for a short trip
7. Mysore – Royalty That Feels Soft, Calm, and Beautiful
Mysore blends heritage with greenery, palaces with bustling markets, and history with serene lakes. Mysore Palace during the evening lights is unforgettable. The city’s cleanliness and slow-paced charm make it one of South India’s most peaceful destinations.
Best For: Heritage lovers, family trips, peaceful vacations
Must Visit: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Brindavan Gardens
How to Reach:
Bengaluru Airport is the closest (170 km). Regular trains and buses operate between Bengaluru and Mysore.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹5,000 – ₹12,000 for 2–3 days
8. Varanasi – The Heart of Spiritual India, Still Underrated in Depth
Varanasi is older than history itself. Every ghat, every lane, every sunrise over the Ganges carries centuries of stories. Beyond the crowds lies a spiritual calm that touches your soul. Handmade crafts, music, and rituals add to the city’s beauty.
Best For: Culture, spirituality, photography
Must Visit: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath, Assi Ghat Sunrise
How to Reach:
Varanasi has an international airport and one of India’s busiest railway junctions.
Estimated Trip Cost:
₹6,000 – ₹14,000 depending on stay and food
Conclusion
These cities might not appear on the top of every travel list, but they hold experiences that feel more personal, more raw, and more unforgettable than most mainstream destinations. They offer untouched beauty, deeper stories, and rich cultures that remind you how vast and magical India truly is.
If you want to explore India beyond the obvious, start with these underrated cities. Each one will leave a mark on your heart — and you’ll come back with stories that no one else has heard.
FAQs
Which underrated Indian city is best for culture?
Madurai and Varanasi offer the richest cultural experiences.
Which city is best for peaceful nature travel?
Shillong is ideal for serene landscapes and calm weather.
Which underrated city is best for food?
Jodhpur and Kochi offer incredible local flavours.
Which city is best for history and architecture?
Gwalior and Mysore are perfect for heritage lovers.
Is travelling to these underrated cities budget-friendly?
Yes, most underrated cities are cheaper and less crowded than popular tourist spots.
