With 2021 just around the corner, you must be browsing through the internet to choose the perfect location to visit this new year. However, COVID-19 pandemic requires everyone to maintain social distancing and avoid crowds. 

However, this doesn’t mean you should cancel your travel plans, instead, choose less explored sites, to have a quiet and safe new year.

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Auli

If you love hiking and skiing, Auli, situated in Uttarakhand is the perfect place for you. 

Mcleodganj

If you’re a mountain person or want to experience Tibetan culture closely, or both, then Mcleodganj is the perfect place for you. The suburb of Dharmshala, situated in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district, it’s often called ‘Little Lhasa’ due to its large Tibetan population.

The Tibetan government-in-exile, headed by the Dalai Lama, reside here. 

Orchha

If you’re a history buff, extremely interested in art and culture, then Orchha is the place for you. A town, located in Madhya Pradesh’s Niwari district, Orchha is still an unexplored treasure.

Ancient temples and palaces are its major attractions. While in town, you should not miss Raja Ram Temple, Jahangir Mahal and Rai Praveen Mahal.

Cherrapunji

Credited with being one of the wettest places on the face of the earth, Cherrapunji, located in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district, should be on your travel list. You can visit Nohkalikai Falls, Dainthlen Falls and Mawsmai Cave.

While in Cherrapunji, take a short drive to Mawlynnong, which is credited with being the cleanest village in India. 

Agumbe

If you plan to spend your New Year close to nature, then Agumbe is the place for you. Located in Karnataka’s Shimoga district, this village is nestled in the thickly forested Malendu region of the Western Ghats. 

Home to low land rainforests, the Agumbe Rainforest Complex is the place to visit. 

While in Agumbe, you can also visit several waterfalls around the village. These include Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, Jogigundi Falls, Koodlu Theerthra Falls and Sirimane Falls.

Kodaikanal 

Lake, rock pillars and pine forests make this picturesque hill station, situated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, perfect for those seeking a peaceful vacation. From Kodaikanal, you can also travel to the nearby village of Vattakanal, an emerging tourist attraction.

Munnar

This erstwhile British tea plantation, in Kerala’s Idukki district, is a tourist attraction. Located in the Western Ghats mountain range, the town is rich in flora and fauna.

While in Munnar, you can also visit Eravikulam National Park, the picturesque hill station of Muttupetty and the waterfalls of Chinnakanal and Anayirangal.

Wayanad

If you wish to explore this peaceful abode, situated in Kerala, opt for hiking. You can go on a little trekking adventure to Sahibkkunnu, Kurisumala peak and Chembra peak. 

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While in Wayanad, you can also visit Tholpetty and Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuaries.