When the travel bug bites you, the months don't really matter. However, with the nip in the air and the renewed vigour of the change in seasons, a trip to some offbeat destination seems like an enticing idea. In September, at the turn of the weather, the traveller in you would yearn to explore destinations that are not thronged by the usual crowd. A time of reflection and renewal, September is quite possibly the best month to venture out on the paths less taken. Here is a list of some underrated places in India to visit this September that would make for a perfect getaway from your daily life.
If you're yearning for an offbeat beach vacation with a touch of old-world charm, look no further than Diu. While Goa can wait until December, the former Portuguese colonies of Daman and Diu offer a memorable holiday experience. This serene destination boasts attractions like Nagoa Beach, Diu Fort, Mirasol Lake Garden, St. Paul's Church, Gangeshwar Temple, Sea Shell Museum, and INS Khukri Memorial. Those who love water sports have a lot of great options at their disposal and can indulge in a variety of water sports.
Diu has its own airport, and the nearest railway station is located 90 km away in Veraval.
The twin towns of Lachen-Lachung are postcard-perfect with its breathtaking beauty that is enhanced due to it being a lesser-known hill station. For discerning travellers, these two North Sikkim towns are a dream come true. Lachen serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Gurudongmar Lake, situated at an altitude of 17,800 ft. Acclimatize at 9,000 ft in Lachen before going further. In Lachung, explore Zero Point (the last civilian outpost before the Indo-China border), Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, and Yumthang Valley. Don't miss out on Phensang Monastery, Kabi Longstok, Phodong Monastery, and Munsithang.
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (200 km from Lachen), and the nearest railhead is Darjeeling Railway Station (174 km from Lachen).
Nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, Roing is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This region boasts lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, steep gorges, rivers and serene lakes, with intriguing archaeological sites. The warmth and hospitality of the locals add to the charm of Roing, making it an enticing tourist destination. If you love immersive travelling, mingling with the locals here and learning about their culture would be a truly fulfilling experience.
The nearest railway station is New Tinsukia Junction, just 102 km (2 hr 25 min) from Roing. Buses and cabs connect Tinsukia to Roing throughout the day, while Dibrugarh Airport is approximately 207 km away.
Mandu, perched atop a verdant, thinly forested plateau, boasts India's finest examples of Afghan architecture. You'll also find impressive baobab trees, originally from Africa, dotting the landscape. This region has numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including palaces, tombs, monuments, and mosques.
The nearest airport is Indore (99 km away), and the nearest railhead is in Ratlam (124 km away).
Coonoor, the Nilgiris' largest hill station after Ooty, is a picturesque destination. Its beautiful landscapes, forts, parks, and hillocks offering breathtaking views make it an ideal place to visit in September. Coonoor also serves as a base for various trekking expeditions into the Nilgiris. Explore attractions like Sim's Park, Dolphin's Nose, Lamb's Rock, Catherine Falls, Lady Canning's Seat, Droog Fort, and St. George's Church. Don't miss out on trekking and forest walks for a truly immersive experience.
Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport, located 79 km from Coonoor. The major railhead closest to Coonoor is Mettupalayam Railway Station, situated 34 km away.