Discover India's natural wonders: Inspiring nature travel experiences

North India: Mountain scenes, green valleys, and trekking trails

Let's embark on our adventure in the north, which boasts some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the country. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the verdant valleys of Himachal Pradesh and the serene hills of Uttarakhand, this region offers a host of fascinating experiences for every traveller. If you're looking for a mountain adventure, a visit to the Himalayas is a must. The stunning snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes of Ladakh, nestled in the northernmost part of India, offer a unique experience. You can also explore the lush valleys and quaint hill stations of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which are perfect for trekking and camping. One trek that I highly recommend is the Valley of Flowers trek in Uttarakhand. This remarkable trail will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain scenes, where you will be greeted by a mesmerising display of over 500 species of flowers and plants. You can begin the trek in Govindghat, which is easily accessible from Rishikesh.

South India: Backwaters, beaches, tea plantations, and ancient temples

As we move towards the south, we come to the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, which are renowned for their natural beauty. Popularly known as 'God's Own Country', Kerala is famous for its pristine backwaters and beaches. The backwaters of Kerala are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. One of my best experiences here was a houseboat ride along the backwaters. I got to experience the local way of life while soaking in the scenic beauty all around. On the other hand, Tamil Nadu is celebrated for its magnificent temples and scenic hill stations. Ooty, a charming hill station tucked away in the Nilgiri Hills, is home to sprawling tea plantations and colonial-era bungalows. The most unique experience I had in this region was a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. In 2005, this railway was accorded the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another popular hill station in the state is Kodaikanal, situated in the Palani Hills. While here, be sure to check out the stunning Kodaikanal Lake–a sight that left me spellbound during my visit.

Central India: Jeep safaris and wildlife-watching

Central India is home to gorgeous landscapes and offers abundant delights for wildlife enthusiasts. In Madhya Pradesh, one can experience the beauty of the Satpura Range, which has rugged hills and deep valleys. On my travels, I had the opportunity to visit the Kanha and Bandhavgarh national parks, which are home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, as well as a variety of other wildlife species, such as leopards, wild dogs, and spotted deer.  The Pench Tiger Reserve, which is spread across Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, beckons nature lovers with its natural treasures. This park was the inspiration behind The Jungle Book, written by Rudyard Kipling. You can take a guided safari tour to see tigers and other wildlife up close.

While Uttar Pradesh may not be the first place that comes to mind when it comes to nature travel in India, it does have some incredible experiences for nature lovers. One such gem that I was fortunate to visit is the Dudhwa National Park, located in the Terai region of the state. The park is famous for its diverse flora and fauna. I took a jeep safari and had the chance to spot several rare and endangered species, such as the Bengal Florican, One-horned Rhinoceros, and Indian Elephant. Another destination that demands a visit is the Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, located along the Chambal River. The sanctuary harbours several species of crocodiles, alligators, and dolphins, as well as over 300 species of birds. You can take a boat ride along the river to catch a glimpse of these incredible creatures.

Eastern India: The largest lagoon and biggest mangrove forest

In the eastern part of India lies the state of Odisha, a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The region boasts several beautiful beaches and is also known for its natural hot springs. The Chilika Lake, which is the largest lagoon in India, is a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Just north of Odisha lies the state of West Bengal, where you must visit the Sundarbans—the world's largest delta and home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. I had the chance to take a boat safari in the Sundarbans. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one that you should not miss. It is also the largest mangrove forest in the world, for which it was accorded the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Northeast: Waterfalls, living root bridges, and one-horned rhinoceros

Further northeast, we come to the picturesque state of Meghalaya, which translates to 'the abode of clouds'. Meghalaya has some of the most spectacular waterfalls and unique living root bridges. I was completely awestruck when I came upon the double-decker living root bridge in the village of Nongriat. The bridge is entirely made of the living roots of rubber fig trees and is over 200 years old. Even though the trek to the bridge was extremely challenging, it was well worth it. It allowed me to marvel at the pristine rainforests and stunning waterfalls on the way. You can also visit the idyllic village of Mawlynnong, which has twice been awarded the title of being the 'Cleanest Village in Asia'. Another gem in the northeast is the Kaziranga National Park in Assam, which proudly harbours the world's largest population of One-horned Rhinoceroses. Here, you can also spot tigers, elephants, and wild buffaloes. The best time to visit Kaziranga is between November and April, when the weather is mild.

Western India: Salt marshes, sand dunes, and vibrant nightlife

Finally, in western India, we begin with the state of Gujarat, which is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here, I highly recommend that you visit The Rann of Kutch—a salt marsh that spans across the border of India and Pakistan. The vast, white salt desert looks like a never-ending sheet of snow. I visited the region during the Rann Utsav, a festival that celebrates the culture and heritage of Gujarat, and it was a truly memorable experience. Continuing along the coast, we arrive in Goa, known for its exotic beaches and thrilling nightlife. For lovers of nature travel, a hidden treasure awaits at Dudhsagar Waterfall. The waterfall is located within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, and is one of the tallest waterfalls in India—at a height of over 1,000 feet.

Those yearning to experience life in the desert must visit Rajasthan in the northwest of the country. The vast expanse of sand dunes, bathed in the shimmering golden light of sunrise and sunset, is a sight to behold. Rajasthan also holds hidden gems for lovers of nature travel—Ranthambore National Park is home to the majestic Bengal tiger, and is one of the best places in India to spot tigers in the wild. You can also spot leopards, wild boars, and a variety of birds in the park. In addition to this, Keoladeo National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—beckons with its diverse avian population. With its vast range of landscapes and natural beauty, India is full of surprises. Whether you're seeking adventure or leisure, India presents plenty of opportunities to satisfy your wanderlust.