In today’s fast-paced world, we all are in a rat race to outdo ourselves and flare like a shooting star. But amid all this conundrum, the essence of life is being lost. Not so long back when we all were in college and full of enthusiasm, we were ready to face the world, we had our bucket list but when we move on to the real world, things change. Work and family gradually take over and the dreams get completely lost. The mundane life takes a toll on your mind and body and it also hampers your productivity. You are flagged as disconnected at work, family and in practically every sphere of life.
Well maybe, you need to disconnect yourself from the material world and recharge yourself. Pick up the phone, call your old pals, book hotel room and your one-way tickets and start ticking off those items one by one from your bucket list that you had planned long back. To help you through your rediscovery and rejuvenation here we have a list of 7 destinations in India that are far away from the busy and mundane urban life and will surely unwind and destress your mind, the body as well as your soul.
1. Leh Ladakh
Leh Ladakh trip is synonymous to an adventure. The long stretches of diverse landscapes, the barren mountains, the deep gorges and several high altitude passes. Riding to Leh alongside your friends is one of the best memories that you will ever have. The serenity and quietness inherent in the valley are analogous to nirvana. You can spend your days at the Leh palace, or the Buddhist monasteries seeking your inner self or ride out to the Pangong Lake or Nubra valley to challenge the rider in you. You can also go trekking to the famous Chadar trek in Zanskar Valley and savor the breath-taking view of the snow-covered Himalayas. Just turn off your phone, switch on the music and enjoy camping in nature’s lap.
Best time to visit: May to Early September for the ride (January for Chadar Trek)
2. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand offers one of its kind experiences and is filled with surprises. Be it the snow-covered mountain peaks or the serene landscape. A doorway to the Himalayas and the abode of the Gods, Uttarakhand is a land of natural beauty and serene spirituality. The tranquility of the land and the magnificent views are sure to strike a chord with your inner self. This journey of self-discovery to the natural bouquet of rare and exotic Himalayan flora is sure to bring you closer to the natural spirit and rejuvenate your inner self. The journey covers the spiritual cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh followed by the beautiful hill station of Lansdowne. Witness the confluence of Alakananda with Bhagirathi at Devprayag and with Mandakini at Rudraprayag. A night's stay at these stops will surely make you wonder in awe. The hotels nearby are very low priced and are worth staying for the night. The gateway to the valley of flowers begins at Joshimath. The scenic trek goes alongside the Pushpawati river through dense forests and is surrounded by snow-clad mountains, meadows, and dense vegetation of oak and coniferous.
Best time to visit: December to February
3. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
If you are looking for the most untouched, serene and tranquil atmosphere, go for Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. It receives snowfall every year from December to January. The USP of this picturesque landscape is the famous Buddhist monasteries, most notable being the Tawang monastery and the Tipi orchid sanctuary clad in the scent of spirituality. Make sure to indulge in the local cuisine and get lost in its unique taste. You can only reach there by road, so get down at Guwahati and make a road trip out of it. Other places to visit in Tawang are, Sela pass, Nuranang falls, Gorichen Peak among a few. Also, don’t forget to get the Inner Line Permit to make the most of your visit and not miss any of the exotic sceneries.
Best time to visit: March to June, and September to October
4. Alleppey Backwaters, Kerala
No wonder that Kerala is called God’s own country. Lush greenery, glittery rivers, and a picture-perfect landscape. Alleppey is the other name of beauty. Spend your days floating in the “Kettuvallam”, a houseboat on the palm-fringed waterways while sipping on to the delicious coconut water. The night cruise will certainly make you forget all the worries of your urban life and you will be mesmerised by the glitter of the stars. The experience is sure to top the extravagance of a 3 or 4 star hotel in the city. The numerous backwater routes have something unique to offer that is different from the others and its beauty will surely captivate you.
Best time to visit: December to February
5. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar, also known as “Mini Switzerland of India”, boasts of irresistible natural beauty. Surrounded by deodar and pine trees, this place is replete of the panoramic views of the plains with snow-capped mountains in the background that are irresistible. The place is a delight for nature lovers and couples. There are a plethora of adventure activities to choose from like Zorbing, trekking, paragliding and horse-riding. The best places that are a must-visit in Khajjiar are the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, 12th-century Khajji Naga Temple, and the Khajjiar Lake at the altitude of 1920 meters surrounded by pine and deodar trees. Honeymooners are recommended to stay at the couple-friendly hotels near Khajjiar lake and relish the opportunity to savour all the love in nature's lap.
Best time to visit: Khajjiar is accessible round the year but the best time is during the summers (March to October)
6. Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
Sitting in the clouds at around 2452 meters above sea level the Dzukou Valley is sandwiched between the borders of Nagaland and Manipur. Hills covered in green and bright flowers of varying hues pave way for a contrasting sunrise that is a spectacle to watch. The Japfu hill offers a picturesque trekking trail or you can take a stroll beside the flowery paths if trekking is not your thing. The beauty of this serene and untouched valley will surely surprise you.
Best time to visit: Round the year but the best time is during the first two weeks of July when the flowers bloom
7. Palolem beach, Goa
Palolem is one of the most exotic and famous white sand beaches of South Goa. It would be a disgrace to not talk about Goa when Natural beauty comes to mind. Goa tops the list of every traveller and a trip with loved ones to Goa is a cherished desire. Be it the beaches, water sports, long rides alongside the sea on wide highways or the old scenic Portuguese architecture Goa is full of surprises. Palolem is in South Goa away from the hustle of the crowded North Goa beaches. Palolem is known for its calm waters and nightlife including the silent disco where everyone wears headphones. Well, isn’t that different!!!! The beach faces Canacona Island making its view most beautiful among other beaches and thus a must-visit. Make sure to spend a day or two there. The hotels near the beach offer a spectacular view at the night time with the entire sea line lit up.
Best time to visit: New year for party freaks and March-April for budget travellers seeking tranquility and calmness
While having too many vacations is a luxury make sure you spend your holidays exploring these heavens on earth and refresh yourself once in a while to get back to your routine with a new and energised version of yourself.
If it's your first solo trip you need to follow this : "The To-Do List: A complete travel guide for your first Solo Trip"
Follow on read: 5 Smart Strategies to Travel Solo