Beyond Manikaran and Vashisht: 5 Lesser-known natural hot springs in India you should not miss

India’s natural hot springs have long been associated with pilgrimage routes, mountain escapes and wellness travel. Places like Manikaran in Himachal Pradesh, Vashisht near Manali and Yumthang in Sikkim have become hugely popular among tourists looking for a mix of scenic beauty and therapeutic sulphur baths.

But with popularity has also come heavy crowds, commercialisation and packed bathing areas, especially during holiday seasons.

That is why many travellers are now looking beyond the obvious names towards quieter, lesser-known thermal springs tucked away inside forests, valleys and remote Himalayan villages. From Ladakh’s high-altitude sulphur springs to hidden geothermal pools in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, these lesser-explored hot springs offer a far more peaceful experience, often surrounded by untouched landscapes rather than tourist-heavy markets.

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Chumathang Hot Spring, Ladakh

While Panamik in Nubra Valley often gets most of the attention in Ladakh, Chumathang remains one of the region’s quieter geothermal gems. Located along the Leh–Tso Moriri route, the hot spring sits beside the Indus River and is known for naturally steaming sulphur pools surrounded by stark mountain terrain.

What makes Chumathang particularly special is the contrast, icy winds outside and naturally heated water emerging directly from the earth. The village itself remains relatively less commercial compared to Ladakh’s more tourist-heavy circuits, making it ideal for travellers looking for slower, quieter experiences.

Dhuni Pani, Madhya Pradesh

Hidden deep within the forests near Amarkantak, Dhuni Pani feels far removed from the usual image of crowded hot spring destinations. The natural spring is surrounded by the Vindhya and Satpura ranges and is often associated with local spiritual folklore and healing beliefs.

Unlike larger tourist-oriented thermal destinations, Dhuni Pani remains more rustic and nature-driven. The journey itself, through dense greenery and forest trails, becomes part of the experience.

Unhavare Hot Springs, Maharashtra

Maharashtra’s Western Ghats are better known for monsoon getaways than geothermal activity, which is exactly why Unhavare remains one of the country’s most underrated natural springs. Located near Dapoli in Ratnagiri district, the hot spring emerges amidst lush greenery and rural Konkan landscapes.

The water is believed by locals to contain medicinal sulphur properties, and the surrounding area remains relatively untouched by mass tourism compared to Himachal or Uttarakhand’s better-known hot springs.

The Western Ghats themselves are home to several naturally occurring springs and water systems that environmental experts say remain under-documented and ecologically important.

Phur Tsa Chu, Sikkim

Most tourists heading to Sikkim know Yumthang Valley, but far fewer venture towards Phur Tsa Chu. Located near the Rangeet River, this lesser-known hot spring is surrounded by forested landscapes and mountain scenery, offering a more secluded alternative to Sikkim’s busier thermal spots.

Because of its relatively remote location, the experience feels far more intimate and less commercialised than many mainstream hot spring destinations.

Taptapani, Odisha

Odisha’s Taptapani often quietly slips under the radar despite being one of eastern India’s most scenic geothermal springs. Located amid forested hills in Ganjam district, the sulphur-rich spring is believed to have therapeutic properties and is especially popular among travellers looking for wellness-focused nature escapes.

The surrounding tribal regions and dense greenery add to the offbeat appeal of the destination.

Why Popular Hot Springs Are Becoming Increasingly Crowded

India’s most famous thermal springs, especially Manikaran, Vashisht and Tattapani in Himachal Pradesh, continue to attract huge tourist footfall because of their accessibility and religious significance.

Manikaran, in particular, has become one of the most visited hot spring destinations in the country thanks to its location in Parvati Valley and its association with both Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage traditions.

Similarly, Vashisht Baths near Manali remain packed during peak tourist seasons because of their proximity to popular hill station routes.

While these places are undoubtedly worth visiting, travellers looking for solitude may find lesser-known springs more rewarding.

Why Natural Hot Springs Continue to Fascinate Travellers

Natural hot springs are formed through geothermal activity beneath the earth’s surface, where underground water gets heated and rises through cracks in rock formations.

Across cultures, these springs have historically been linked to healing, relaxation and spiritual cleansing. Many sulphur-rich springs are traditionally believed to help with skin conditions, muscle soreness and joint pain, though medical experts say therapeutic benefits can vary.

What continues to attract travellers, however, is often less about science and more about the experience itself, soaking in naturally heated water while surrounded by snow-covered mountains, forests or rivers.