Now, that the winters
are slowly making us wear hoodies and mufflers, we know that it’s time to start
planning our winter vacation. However, instead of going to well-known destinations
such as Shimla or Goa, why don’t you try something new? How about travelling to
off-beat places to explore them on your own? Keeping this in mind, we show you
5 unknown places in India which make your vacations worth it.
Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Known as the mini Switzerland of India, the
magnificent hill station of Khajjiar is filled with lakes, hills and meadows.
Before you get all excited to go there, let me tell you that the roads are
often sealed during winters due to snowfall. So, make sure that your trip
doesn’t get spoiled because of it. The best part of this town is that it provides
a various number of adventure sports such as paragliding, horse-riding and
trekking.
How to Reach: In order to reach Khajjiar, take a flight to
Dharamsala and then you can take a cab till Khajjiar.
Where to Stay: Shining Star Resort, Hotel Mini Swiss, Hotel
Grace Mount.
Places to Visit: Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Khajjiar Lake,
Khajji Naga Temple.
Gokarna, Karnataka
Those who reside in hill stations and are used
to cold weather, often look forward to traversing warmer destinations. So, if
you want to check out warm and crystal clear beaches in India, Gokarna is the
place for you. It has a pure and relaxing environment which will help you
unwind during your vacation. Hang out at the beach, watching the beautiful
sunset or go for a swim in the salted sea. It’s a great place for photographers
too, which allows them to capture a diverse flora and fauna along with cultural
miscellanies. Also, you can also check out the Namaste Café which is popularly
known as the hidden gem for foodies.
How to Reach: You can take an overnight train to Karwar and
then you are just a cab ride away from Gokarna.
Where to Stay: Om Beach Resort, Sanskruti Resort, SwaSwara.
Places to Visit: Mahabaleswara Temple, Kudle Beach, Shiva Cave.
Varkala, Kerala
Planning a romantic getaway this winter season?
Varkala might turn out to be the right place for you. With its authentic white
sand beaches, shrines, hills and lighthouses, you might be able to light that
spark in your romance with its atmosphere. Whether you go for a boat ride to be
surrounded with crystalline water or choose to go for an adventure sport like
paragliding and parasailing, Varkala can be a great option for newlyweds.
How to Reach: Reach Varkala by taking an overnight train.
Where to Stay: Hill-top Ayurvedic Beach Resort, Palm Tree
Heritage, Blue Water Beach Resort.
Places to Visit: Varkala Beach, Janardhana Swami Temple, Varkala
Lighthouse
Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
Full of architectural ruins, Mandu is an
elegant destination for travel bugs who want to explore the history of India.
Home to some of the oldest monuments in India, let your eyes absorb the beauty
of these architectures. And why just your eyes, capture the beauty with your
camera too! Also, don’t forget to visit the shrine of Prince Baz Bahadur and
Rani Roopmati’s unconditional love story.
How to Reach: Just take a flight to Indore and you can take a
cab to reach Mandu.
Where to Stay: Hotel Rupmati, Hotel Royal Palace, Ahilya Fort.
Places to Visit: Jahaz
Mahal, Rani Roopmati Pavillion, Hindola Mahal
Mokokchung, Nagaland
Situated on a hilltop, you are sure to get
mesmerised by the scenic beauty of Mokokchung. One of the biggest urban centres
of Nagaland, you will be glad to know that the people there are quite friendly
and civilised. The view from the top of the hill is exceptionally
breath-taking, especially in the night. The best way to visit Mokokchung is to
explore it on your own.
How to Reach: Reaching Mokokchung is a little difficult as
you will have to take a cab from Kohima, for a day and a half journey to get there.
Where to Stay: Circuit House, Whispering Winds, Hotel
Metsuben.
Places to Visit: Chuchuyimlang, Longkhum, Mokukchung Park.
I’m sure after reading
about all these unexplored places in India, you just can’t wait to travel to
all these alluring destinations and spend your winter vacations. After all if
the world is a book, you need to read some of the pages to find your peace and
content.
