The abandoned Rajasthan village is surrounded by legends about its sudden disappearance, though many details remain debated.
Kuldhara
This Meghalaya village became famous for community-led cleanliness, with residents traditionally taking collective responsibility for keeping the settlement clean.
Mawlynnong
In this Meghalaya village, people traditionally receive a special melodic name, known as a jingrwai iawbei, alongside their regular name.
Kongthong
The village sits along the India–Myanmar border, and the traditional chief’s house famously extends across both sides of the international boundary.
Longwa
Many homes and streets were built beneath massive rock overhangs, creating a distinctive settlement shaped by the surrounding landscape.
Setenil De Las Bodegas
Known for canals, bridges and boat travel, parts of the village traditionally rely more on waterways than conventional roads.
Giethoorn
Homes were built among enormous granite boulders, with some buildings appearing to use the rocks themselves as walls or roofs.
Monsanto
From unusual naming customs to remarkable architecture and community practices, these villages show how local traditions can shape everyday life.