Discover India’s hidden gems with the cleanest air and rich culture

As urban centres like Delhi and other major metropolitan cities grapple with ever-increasing pollution levels, many lesser-known towns in India offer a refreshing escape with clean air and peaceful surroundings. These hidden gems not only provide some of the lowest AQI levels in the country but also offer rich cultural experiences, stunning natural landscapes and a glimpse into local traditions.

While metropolitan areas like Delhi and other cities are shrouded in thick layers of smog due to rising pollution, making daily life and even basic breathing a challenge, there are several lesser-known cities in India that offer not only some of the cleanest air but also a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere.

These cities are perfect retreats, providing much more than just fresh air. Boasting excellent air quality, they also offer a rich blend of culture, heritage, natural beauty, and delectable cuisine.

Here is a list of cities, nestled in different parts of India which are worth visiting not only for their low AQI but also for the unique experiences they offer to travellers seeking both relaxation and immersion in local traditions.

Bishnupur, Manipur

Tucked away in the heart of Manipur, this charming town not only boasts an AQI of five, one of the lowest in India but also offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Located about 27 km from the state capital, Imphal, this quaint city is renowned for its terracotta temples, unique handicrafts, stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals and much more, making it one of the most recommended places to visit in Manipur.

When in Bishnupur, make sure to explore its ancient temples, such as the Jorbangala Temple, Rasmancha, and the Pancha Ratna Temple, all of which date back to the reign of the Malla kings. These historic sites not only offer a glimpse into the town’s rich past but also provide a tranquil space for contemplation.

For adventure and nature enthusiasts, Bishnupur is a haven. Surrounded by lush green hills, the town offers an array of scenic hikes and treks. Just a short distance away, you can visit Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, renowned for its unique floating islands, or phumdis.

Bishnupur is also a vibrant cultural hub. Its exquisite terracotta pottery, intricate silk weaving, and lively festivals, like the Ras Lila, an enchanting dance and music performance that narrates the story of Lord Krishna make it a captivating destination that draws visitors from all over the country.

Balasore, Odisha

Balasore is a small city on the eastern coast of India that offers a serene and peaceful retreat, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of just 23, making it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan cities.

Known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and religious landmarks, the city is a hidden gem for those seeking a mix of spirituality and relaxation. The district is home to a number of significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, including those at Chandaneshwar, Baneshwar, Jhadeshwar, Panchalingeshwar, Bhusandeshwar and Maninageshwar.

These temples attract pilgrims throughout the year and offer a glimpse into the region’s religious history. Other notable religious and cultural sites in Balasore include the Sun Temples of Ayodhya, Seragarh, Nilagiri and Bardhanpur, all of which hold great significance for both locals and tourists alike.

The city is also renowned for its vibrant festivals, which draw visitors from across India. The festivities, characterised by zeal and grandeur, include celebrations like Makara Sankranti, Raja Sankranti, Ganga Mela, Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Saraswati Puja, Laxmi Puja, and Bishwakarma Puja, among many others.

Each festival offers a unique experience of Balasore’s cultural traditions. One of the highlights of Balasore’s cultural calendar is the game of Akhada, a traditional wrestling competition held during Durga Puja by Hindus and during Muharram by Muslims.

Balasore’s beautiful beaches make it an ideal destination for a peaceful beach-cation, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and calm atmosphere.

Aizawl, Mizoram

The capital, and also the largest city of Mizoram, is a serene and beautiful destination set against the backdrop of lush green hills and enchanting rivers. The city also boasts an AQI of 25 benefiting from its terrain and untouched forests.

Aizawl which literally translates to “a field of wild cardamom” is an ideal destination for visitors looking to unwind in the lap of nature. The city also beckons adventure lovers from all over the country owing to its high Durtlang cliffs and thrilling rapids of the Tlawng river ideal for sports like paragliding and river rafting.

Other attractions worth visiting in Aizawl include Zokhua, a typical Mizo village 18 km south of Aizawl, Solomon’s temple, A non-denominational church, Khawahpawp Waterfalls and the Quarter Guard, a heritage sites for Assam Rifles, amongst others.

Madikeri, Karnataka

The capital of Coorg region in Karnataka, Madikeri is a beautiful town perched on the hills of the Western Ghats. The enchanting city is also called the “Scotland of India” or the “Kashmir of South” owing to its picturesque slopes, dense topical forests and plantations and cascading waterfalls.

The hill station also boasts an AQI of 29, making it an ideal destination to escape the pollution. Some of the must-visit places in Madikeri include Abbey Falls, Namdroling Monastry and the Madikeri Fort.

Once in Madikeri, be sure to visit Talacauvery, a sacred location, known to be the origin place of Cauvery River from the Brahmagiri Hills which attracts numerous tourists and devotees from other parts of India.

The town also offers a plethora of trekking trails and hikes through its serene and majestic forests leading to picturesque views of the surrounding hilltops.

Parigi, Telangana

Parigi, a small and quaint town located about 80 km from Hyderabad is an ideal destination for people looking to escape the hustle of cities and enjoy natural beauty and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

The town boasts an AQI of 23 and offers visitors a chance to experience the life of rural Telangana all the while being close to urban conveniences.

One of the top attractions is the Pochampally village, known for its traditional Ikat weaving, where visitors can witness the intricate process of crafting these handwoven textiles. Pochampally sarees are renowned all over the world thanks to their unique designs.

Hilsay Forest, located close to Parigi offers a serene atmosphere for nature walks and bird watching, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. For history enthusiasts, the Bhongir Fort, situated a short drive from Parigi, provides a glimpse into the region’s medieval past with stunning views from the top of the hill where it sits.

The region is also known for its ancient temples, like the Shiva temple in Pochampally.