10 places in India that feel like foreign countries, unique experience from Gulmarg to Pondicherry

The journey to India surprises everyone. Even those people who have lived in this country all their lives are surprised. Many times a beautiful valley, a green hill or an old street corner suddenly starts looking very familiar. This happens not because you have been there before, but because the place looks like scenes seen in pictures or movies of another country.

There are many places in India which remind of foreign countries. These places do not intentionally copy any country. The natural beauty, atmosphere and structure are such that the mind of the viewer automatically goes to some distant country. These similarities have arisen naturally due to geography, climate and culture. Let us know about some special places of India, which look like foreign tourist places. These places are not only beautiful but also give a unique experience to the travelers.

Gulmarg – A Little Piece of Switzerland

Gulmarg of Jammu and Kashmir reminds of Switzerland. There are vast grasslands, gently sloping hills and in winter there is a thick blanket of white snow all around. This view looks as calm and charming as the alpine areas of Europe. In summer the snow melts and lush green grass spreads everywhere. At that time the atmosphere becomes calm and peaceful. Time feels like passing slowly in Gulmarg. The peace and natural beauty here makes it one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in India.

Khajjiar – Mini Switzerland

Khajjiar, located in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, is called ‘Mini Switzerland’. There is a circular green field amidst dense pine forests. There is also a small lake in the middle of it. The whole scene is so balanced and beautiful that it looks as if an artist has created it. The biggest quality of Khajjiar is its simplicity. There is no need to roam around much here. By simply standing at one place one can enjoy the beauty all around. Khajjiar is a great place for those who are unable to go abroad but want an environment like Switzerland.

Pondicherry – a quiet corner of France

While visiting the French Quarter in Pondicherry (Puducherry), one suddenly gets reminded of France. There are old buildings here in light yellow, pink and white colors. Colorful vines of bougainvillea flutter on the walls. There are small cafes where people sit comfortably and spend time. The atmosphere here is calm and dull. No noise, no hurry. It feels great to stroll through the streets, sit in cafes, watch people and enjoy the French-Indian mixed culture.

Spiti Valley – A Glimpse of Tibet

Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh may not look exactly like any other country, but the deep influence of Tibetan culture is visible here. High barren mountains, ancient Buddhist monasteries, colorful flags and peaceful atmosphere remind of Tibet. Very few people live here. The silence is so deep that the mind becomes calm. Spiti is an ideal place for travelers who are looking for peace and natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle.

Andaman Islands – A paradise like Thailand and Bali

The white sands, crystal clear waters and lush forests of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are reminiscent of Thailand or Bali. Especially Radhanagar beach is so beautiful and clean that it fascinates the mind just by looking at it. There is much less crowd here compared to the mainland. This combination of peace and natural beauty makes Andaman one of the most beautiful sea tourist destinations in India.

Coorg – European Village Charm

Coorg (Kodagu) of Karnataka is famous for rolling hills, coffee plantations and morning fog. The rural environment here feels like a peaceful village in Europe. The roads pass through lush green fields and gardens. The cool air, peaceful environment and slow pace of life here are liked by the travelers very much.

Zero Valley – Peace of Japan

Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh is seen to be associated with rural Japan. The rice fields, traditional wooden houses, clean environment and peace all around remind us of the villages of Japan. This place doesn’t brag about itself. Slowly she casts her magic.

Leh-Ladakh – cold desert

The dry, barren and vast landscape of Ladakh resembles the cold deserts of Central Asia. Seeing the high mountains, blue sky, and empty fields, it feels as if you have come to another planet.

Alleppey – The Magic of the Backwaters

Alleppey in Kerala is famous for visiting by houseboat. Quiet backwaters, canals lined with coconut trees and slow flowing water are reminiscent of Venice or some places in South-East Asia.

Auroville – Small Globe of the World

Auroville of Tamil Nadu is not like any other country. People from all over the world live here. The architecture of different countries, global culture and peaceful community life make it different from other places.