Lonavala - a weekend getaway from Mumbai

Just 95 km away from Mumbai, Lonavala also called Lonavla or Lonavale is a charming hill station located about 620 metres above sea level in the popular Sahyadri ranges. Lonavala along with its nearby hill station of Khandala make an ideal spot to enjoy a weekend break with family members. Discovered by Sir Elphinstone, the then Governor of the Bombay Presidency in 1871, Lonavala is easily accessible from Mumbai through Mumbai-Pune Expressway as well as Konkan Railways. 

Lonavala

Nature has blessed Lonavala with abundant treasures that include lush green countryside, beautiful valleys, shimmering waterfalls, lakes and scenic water bodies. The twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala has many places of tourist interest that can be visited with family members including children. Some of the popular attractions in and around Lonavala include Bushy Dam, Lion’s Point, Tungarli Lake and Dam, Shooting Point, I.N.S Shivaji, Karla Caves, Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, Valvan Dam, Ryewood Park & Shivaji Udyan, Lonavala Lake and Rajmachi Point. 

The sightseeing expeditions in Lonavala – Khandala also offer a wonderful chance to indulge in a variety of leisure activities. You can enjoy a refreshing bath in the waterfalls around Lonavala or enjoy breathtaking views of the city and beautiful surroundings from the view points. Go for shopping with your family and buy special items of the Konkan region to keep as a souvenir of your trip. ‘Chikki’ – a hard candy sweet is a must buy while shopping in the markets of Lonavala.  

Sapotra - the home of Ramathra Fort

Location: Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan

Distance: 430 km from Delhi, 175 km from Jaipur

Popular for: Picturesque countryside, Ramathra Fort

Ramathra Fort, Sapotra

Getting There –
By Train – Sawai Madhopur railway station, situated on the Delhi – Mumbai route, is a major railhead close to Sapotra. The railway station is connected by a number of express and superfast trains to Delhi. From Sawai Madhopur, take the road to reach Sapotra, the 80 km long journey takes two hours.

By Road – From Delhi, take NH 8 to reach Jaipur (265 km), approximately five hours away. Further, take a left and proceed on NH 11 till Dausa. From there, switch on NH 11A to Lalsot and then take NH11B to Gangapur. From Gangapur, take the state road to reach Sapotra. The road journey from Delhi to Sapotra should take around eight to nine hours.

Overview – 
Sapotra, a small town located in Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, is an ideal getaway for weekend breaks. Besides its picturesque countryside, the town is known for historic Ramathra Fort and serene Kalisil Lake. Sapotra also serves a quaint base to visit world famous Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (80 km) and Kailadevi National Park (15 km). Tourists flock the town, round the year to enjoy a peaceful vacation and go back home with some lifelong memories.  

Don’t Miss – 
From Sapotra, jeep safaris to neighbouring hamlets and forest areas, is a must-do activity. While on jeep safari, meet villagers, experience the rural life and capture some wonderful moments in your camera. Take a jeep ride to Kaila Devi National Park, home to a variety of wild animals and famous Kaila Devi Temple. Also take day trip to Ranthambore National Park to spot tigers and several other animals. Visit Karauli, known for Bhanwar Vilas Palace and Madan Mohanji Temple. Close to Sapotra, Kalisil Lake is another interesting spot to see birds and enjoy kayaking.

Sawantwadi - a picturesque town boasts of natural beauty

Location: Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra

Distance: 540 km from Mumbai, 390 km from Pune, 60 km from Panjim

Popular for: Its lake and natural beauty

Sawantwadi

Getting There –

By Air – The nearest airport is located at Belgaum, about 64 km away. Belgaum airport is linked to Mumbai and Bangalore by a number of flights. Taxis are available at the airport to Sawantwadi.

By Train – Samantha Road railway station is the nearest railhead from Sawantwadi, at a distance of 28 km. The railway station is served by trains of the Konkan railway. From the railway station, hire a taxi to reach Sawantwadi, approximately one hour away. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on the Mumbai – Goa (NH 17) Highway to reach Sawantwadi via Nagothane, Khed, Hathkumbe, Kankauli and Kudal. The journey from Mumbai to Sawantwadi should take around 10 hours. Private and state owned bus services are available to Sawantwadi from Mumbai and other cities like Bangalore and Mysore.

Overview – 

Sawantwadi also called ‘Sunderwadi’ is a picturesque town in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. Set around a serene lake, ‘Moti Talav’, the town is surrounded on its all sides by mountains, and it is a perfect getaway for the lost souls. Mother Nature has blessed Sawantwadi with abundant jewels like the magnificent hillocks and verdant forests, which house a wide range of wildlife and medicinal plants. Once the capital of the erstwhile ‘Kingdom of Sawantwadi’, the town is famous its massive palace and traditional arts, especially wooden crafts. Even today, traditional art forms like Shilpa Gram, Lacquer ware, Ganjifa cards and Moghal cards flourish in the town. 

Don’t Miss – 

A beautiful lake, Moti Talav is a jewel on the crown of Sawantwadi. Enjoy thrilling water sports activities like boating, swimming and paddling in the lake, against the magnificent backdrop of Narendra Hill. After unwinding yourself at Moti Talav, proceed towards the Sawantwadi Palace, which provides a fine glimpse of the bygone era. The palace has an excellent collection of traditional lacquer ware goods, small dolls, exquisite royal furniture and paintings. Vithal Temple too is a must visit place in the town. Don’t forget to buy wooden toys, including wooden models of fruits and vegetables, to keep them as souvenir of the trip. 

Sasan Gir - home to Asiatic Lions

Location: South-east of Junagadh town in Gujarat

Distance: 385 km from Ahmedabad, 870 km from Mumbai

Popular for: Gir National Park, home to Asiatic lions

Asiatic Lions, Sasangir

Getting There –

By Air – The nearest airport is located at Keshod, 85 km away. Keshod airport is connected to Mumbai by low cost airlines, but daily flights are not available. Air India operates daily flights between Mumbai and Rajkot, located at a distance of 150 km from Sasan Gir.  

By Train – Sasan Gir has a railway station, but the train service to the station is temporarily suspended due to gauge conversion. Junagadh railway station is the major railhead close to Sasan Gir, which is served by several trains from Ahmedabad. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on NH 8 till Ahmedabad. Further, NH 8A takes you to Rajkot, then switch on NH 8B to reach Junagadh. From Junagadh, take the state highway to reach Sasan Gir, approximately two hours away. 

Overview – 

Sasan Gir is a small town, located 65 km south-east of Junagadh city in Gujarat. The town is renowned world over for its proximity to Gir National Park, home to Asiatic lions. In fact, outside the African continent, Sasan Gir is the only place in the world, where Asiatic lions can be seen in their natural habitat. However, the Asiatic lions of Sasan Gir are slightly smaller in size than their African counterparts. 

Don’t Miss – 

Asiatic lions are the prime attraction at Gir National Park, which was established in 1965. You can spot lions in the forest, comprises rugged terrain along with steep rocky hills. Permission to visit the Gir forest area is provided by forest department officials at Sasan Gir. Jeeps and minibuses are available in the town to visit Park. In addition to lions, animals like the leopard, chital, chinkara, four-horned antelope and spotted deer, add more excitement to your jungle safari. Also visit Nalsarovar Lake to spot birds like the back-headed cuckoo, paradise flycatcher, partridge, parrot and peacock. The Crocodile Rearing and Research Centre is another attraction of the town, where crocodiles are hatched and then released into their natural habitat. 

Pinjore - A weekend getaway from Delhi

Location: Panchkula district in Haryana

Distance: 270 km from Delhi

Popular As: Gateway to Himachal Pradesh

Pinjore Garden

Getting There –

By Train – Chandigarh railway station is the nearest railhead, 22 kms away. A number of express and superfast trains ply between Delhi and Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, you can either hire a taxi or travel by bus to reach Pinjore.  

By Road – From Delhi, take the NH 1 to Ambala. Further, hit the NH 21 to reach Zirakpur. Then, take a right onto Chandigarh – Kalka Highway (NH 22) to reach Pinjore. The driving time from Delhi to Pinjore is about seven hours. 

Overview – 

Pinjore is small town, lies in Panchkula district of Haryana. Due to its strategic location, on the Chandigarh – Kalka route, the town is often referred to as the ‘gateway to Himachal Pradesh’. Pinjore is situated in a picturesque valley, overlooking the Shivalik hills, at an altitude of above 1800 feet above the sea level. Far from the maddening crowd of the cities, the beautiful town is ideal for a relaxing vacation. Tourists flock the town to rejuvenate their mind and spirit, and experience the nature at its best. Pinjore is known world wide for the Mughal Gardens and tractor manufacturing unit of HMT Ltd. 

Don’t Miss – 

Visit the Mughal Gardens, the prime attraction of the town, especially at night, to enjoy delightful lighting and tranquil ambience. The terraced gardens at Pinjore, unlike other Mughal Gardens instead of ascending, descend and create a magical effect. The Sheesh Mahal built in the Rajasthani – Mughal style, Jal Mahal, Rang Mahal, along with a series of musical fountains and waterfalls, add to the charm of the gardens. While in Pinjore, do not miss to taste the delicious fruit chaat, prepared from the fresh fruits plucked from the gardens.

Pragpur - India’s first heritage village

Location: Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh

Distance: 430 km from Delhi

Popular As: India’s first heritage village’

Getting There –

By Train – Una Himachal railway station is the nearest railhead, at a distance of about 60 km. Himachal Express, an overnight train, run daily between Delhi and Una. The train departs from Delhi at 23.20 pm and reaches Una next day, at 7.50 in the morning. From Una, you have to reach Pragpur by road, approximately one and half hours away. 

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 1 till Phagwara via Ambala and Ludhiana. Then, switch onto the state road to reach Hoshiarpur. Further, NH 70 takes you to Gagret. From there, take the state road to reach Pragpur. The road trip from Delhi to Pragpur, should take around 10 hours. 

Overview – 

Renowned as ‘India’s first heritage village’, Pragpur is situated in Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Pragpur is beautiful hamlet in the Dhauladhar mountain ranges, thronged by visitors in large numbers for a relaxing weekend break. Bestowed with abundant greenery, the quaint village is a perfect eco-tourism destination. Pragpur is the home of the world famous Kangra School of painting. In addition to its serene beauty and magnificent views, the village is also known for its historic significance. It is said that world’s oldest ruling lineage comes from Pragpur. 

Don’t Miss – 

Pragpur is known for its traditional architecture. You can see a glimpse of the age old architecture, in the mud plastered and slate roofed houses, cobbled lanes and ornamental tanks, sprawling in the village. Interestingly, the water-tank at Pragpur is the centre of almost every activity of villagers. Take the leisurely walks across the village and nearby places, dotted with seasonal fruits and colourful flowers orchards. You can also enjoy fun-filled activities like angling and water sports. Other nearby attractions are Sidh Channo Temple (3 km), Chinour Temple (15 km), Kaleshwar Temple (20 km), Jwalamukhi Temple (21 km), Chintpurni Temple (20 km), Kangra Fort (45 km) and Dharamsala (65 km). 

Pokhran - the place of five mirages

Location: 110 km east of Jaisalmer, Pokhran

Distance: 730 kms from Delhi

Popular As: The place of five mirages

Getting There –

By Train – Pokhran railway station is situated on the Delhi – Jaisalmer route. The railway station is served by Delhi – Jaisalmer Express, running daily between Delhi and Jaisalmer.

By Road – From Delhi, proceed on NH 10 to reach Hisar. From there, take a left onto NH 65, leading to Fatehpur. Then, switch onto NH 11 and drive on the same road till Bikaner. Further, NH 15 takes you to Pokhran. The road trip from Delhi to Pokran should take around 16 hours.

Overview –

Located 110 km east of Jaisalmer, Pokhran also spelled Pokaran or Pokharan is a quaint weekend getaway. Literally meaning ‘the place of five mirages’, the town lies in the Great Indian Thar Desert. Despite its remote location, Pokhran is internationally renowned as the test site for India's first underground nuclear weapon detonation. On May 18, 1974, the town shot to international fame, when India successfully detonated its first nuclear weapon under project ‘Smiling Buddha’. Again after a gap of 24 years, on May 11 and May 13, 1998, India conducted five successful nuclear tests at Pokhran.

Don’t Miss –

Pokaran Fort is the landmark of the town. Built in the 16th century by Rao Maldeo, a Marwar Thakur (local chieftain), the fort is now a hotel. Also known as Balagarh, the magnificent fort houses exquisite palaces, namely Phool Niwas, Hawa Mahal, Rani Mahal and Mangal Niwas. Visit the museum, located inside the fort to see a fine collection of royal weapons, costumes, paintings, and pottery. Close to the fort are some marvellously carved sandstone chhatris (cenotaphs), belonging to the royal family. Also, visit the famous Baba Ramdeo Temple, situated at a distance of 15 km from Pokhran.

Phalodi - A weekend getaway off Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Location: Rajasthan

Distance: Around 140 km from Jodhpur, 670 km from Delhi

Popular For: Kalyan Raoji Temple

Getting There –

By Train – Phalodi railway station is located on the Delhi – Jaisalmer rail route. Delhi – Jaisalmer Express is the only train, running between Delhi and Jaisalmer daily. 

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 10 leading to Hisar. Proceed further, on NH 65 and switch onto NH 11 at Fatehpur to reach Bikaner. Then, take a right on NH 15 and drive straight to Phalodi. The road journey from Delhi to Phalodi, usually takes 15 hours. 

Overview – 

Situated in western Rajasthan, Phalodi is an excellent weekend getaway, about 140 km south of Jodhpur. The town enjoys a special place among the tourists, because of its strategic location, en-route to Jaisalmer (165 km west). In fact, Phalodi itself is home to a number of tourist attractions. Established in the 15th century, the historic town is known for its magnificent monuments, old temples and more. Phalodi serves as a major hub for commercial and industrial activities of the region. The town is also called the ‘Salt City’, due to presence of numerous salt manufacturing units.    

Don’t Miss – 

Kalyan Raoji Temple is major attraction of Phalodi, constructed in 1230 AD. The temple is famous for its stone epigraphic inscriptions, indicating existence of the old Phalodi town, called as ‘Vijay Nagar Patan’. Latiyal Devi Temple, Santinath Temple and Parsanth Jain Temple are other important temples. Hardly 5 km from Phalodi, Khichan is a must visit place, known for Siberian migratory birds ‘Kurja’. Take an excursion to see the temple of Pabhuji Maharaj, approximately 35 km away.

Nalagarh - A town of production units

Location: Himachal Pradesh

Distance: 300 km from Delhi, 60 km from Chandigarh

Popular for: production units for chemicals, threads and breweries

Getting There –

By Train – The nearest railhead is located at Chandigarh, approximately 60 km away. Chandigarh railway station is served by a number of express and superfast trains from Delhi. Taxis and bus services are available from Chandigarh to Nalagarh.  

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 1 up to Ambala. Further, take the NH 21 till Zirakpur and then switch onto NH 22 to reach Pinjore. From there, proceed on NH 21 A for about 30 km, and then take a right on the state road to reach Nalagarh. The road trip from Delhi to Nalagarh should take around eight hours. 

Overview – 

Nalagarh, also called Nawalgarh is a small town in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Founded by the Chandela Rajputs in 1100 AD, the town was a princely state during the British Raj. Set an altitude of 1,220 feet above sea level, Nalagarh draws tourists for a quiet weekend break, away from the maddening crowd of big cities. An industrial town, Nalagarh is also home to several production units of leather, steel, chemicals, threads and breweries.   

Don’t Miss – 

Nalagarh Fort is the prime attraction of the town, known for its excellent architecture and well-manicured lawns. Built in 1421 during the reign of Raja Bikram Chand, the magnificent fort is now functional as a heritage resort. Visit the fort to enjoy breathtaking views of Shivalik Hills and nearby areas. Nature walks along the forested trails is a must do recreational activity at Nalagarh. You may also visit Pinjore (35 km) en-route to Nalagarh, to see the famous Mughal Gardens. 

Nahan - A beautiful hill station in Himachal

Location: Himachal Pradesh

Distance: 265 km from Delhi

Popular As: Hill Station

Getting There –

By Train – Ambala Cantt Junction is the major railhead close to Nahan. The railway station is served by numerous express and superfast trains from Delhi. Further, you can hire a taxi to reach Nahan, approximately three hours away. Bus services are also available at regular intervals from Ambala to Nahan. 

By Road – From Delhi, take NH 1 to reach Ambala town. Further, switch onto NH 72 leading straight to Nahan. The road journey from Delhi to Nahan, usually takes seven hours. 

Overview – 

Nahan is a picturesque town, situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Perched on a hill atop the Shivalik Hills, the town is an ideal getaway for a weekend break. Set at an altitude of about 900 mtr, Nahan enjoys pleasant weather round the year. Established in 1621 by Raja Karan Prakash, the city has its connections with great saints and princes. A well-planned town, Nahan is known for a man-made lake, lush gardens and beautifully decorated temples. Nahan is also a good base to visit popular places such as Paonta Sahib (20 km), Suketi Fossil Park (21 km) and Trilokpur Temple (23 km).  

Don’t Miss – 

Leisure walks across the town and nearby places is a must do activity. The Mall Road is one of the favourite areas for walking, especially in the evening. Do some shopping at Mall Road. Visit the magnificent temples, colonial buildings and other interesting structures situated in and around the town. Kalisthan Temple, Jagannath Temple, Sanatan Dharm Temple and Lakshmi Narayan Temple are some of the famous temples. Other must visit places include Rosin and Turpentine factory, Ranital Tank and Garden, Pakka Tank and Nahan Foundry. You can also go fishing on the rivers and streams, flowing close to the town. 

Munsiyari - A Quaint Weekend Getaway from Delhi

Location: Kumaon Hill of Uttarakhan

Distance: 600 km from Delhi, 260 km from Kathgodam

Popular As: Hill Station

Getting There –

By Train – Kathgodam railway station, at a distance of 260 km, is the nearest rail head. Board the Ranikhet Express or Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express in Delhi to reach Kathgodam. Further, you have to travel by road to reach Munsiyari, approximately 10 hours away. 

By Road – From Delhi, drive on NH 24 till Rampur. Then, take a left onto NH 87 to reach Nainital, a convenient place to break your journey en-route. The road journey from Delhi to Nainital, should take around eight hours. Further, the state road via Almora and Bageshwar, takes you to Munsiyari, around 280 kms away.  

Overview – 

Munsiyari is a quaint weekend getaway in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude 2,200 mtr above sea level, the small hamlet serves as a starting point of thrilling treks into the inner ranges of the Himalayas. Munsiyari is set along the banks of Goriganga River, flanked by lofty snow capped peaks. Opened to visitors only a few years back, the town draws discerning travellers, nature lovers and adventure seekers from across the globe. A fast growing tourist destination, Munsiyari greets visitors with its unspoiled environs, verdant valleys and breathtaking views of the glaciers.

Don’t Miss – 

From Munisyari you can enjoy splendid views of the snowy Himalayas, including the famous Panchuli quintuplets, looking like five chimneys. Proceed on leisurely walks along the exciting trek routes, leading to Milam, Ralan and Namik glaciers. Remember, you require inner line trekking permits before starting your expeditions. While trekking along the Munsiyari jungles, you can see vast range of mountain birds and animals. You can also enjoy river rafting on the Goriganga River and skiing on the higher slopes of Khaliatop and Betulidhar. Madkote (22km), Birthi Falls (31 km) and Jaulijibi (66 km) are other must visit places around Munsiyari. 

Moradabad - An Industrial City of Uttar Pradesh

Location: Uttar Pradesh

Distance: 165 km from Delhi 

Popular as: Industrial City of Uttar Pradesh 

Getting There –

By Train – Moradabad railway station is an important railhead of the Northern Railways. Several express and superfast trains connect Moradabad to Delhi. 

By Road – NH 24 connects Delhi directly to Moradabad. From Delhi, drive on NH 24 to Ghaziabad. Drive further on the same road to reach Moradabad, crossing Hapur, Gurumuteshwar and Gajraula en-route. The driving time from Delhi to Moradabad is approximately four hours. 

Overview – 

Moradabad is an industrial city of Uttar Pradesh, located 165 km from New Delhi. Situated on the bank of Ram Ganga River, the city is popularly known as ‘Peetal Nagri’ (Brass City). Moradabad is famous world over for massive export of brass handicrafts, especially to North America and many European countries. One of the important commercial centres of the country, the city is dotted with numerous big and small brass factories. A historic town, Moradabad was established in 1600 by Murad Baksh, the youngest son of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan.

Don’t Miss – 

While visiting Moradabad, don’t forget to buy brass items such as jewellery, pots and trophies. You can also buy impressive metal wares, glass wares and aluminium artworks. Visit the Metal World, an exclusive showroom of metal handicrafts. Prem Wonder Land and Water Kingdom are other interesting places, to indulge in adventure and amusement activities.    

Mohali - The Satellite City of Chandigarh

Location: Punjab, adjacent to Chandigarh

Distance: 252 km from Delhi

Popular as: Satellite City of Chandigarh

Popular for: International Cricket Stadium

Getting There –

By Air – The nearest airport is located in Chandigarh, at a distance of 10 km. Flights of Jet Airways, Air India and Kingfisher operate daily between Delhi and Chandigarh.

By Train – Chandigarh railway station, about 14 km away, is the nearest railhead from Mohali. Shatabdi Express, Himalayan Queen Express, Paschim Express and Howrah – Kalka Mail connect Delhi to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh railway station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Mohali.

By Road – From Delhi, take NH 1 to reach Ambala via Panipat and Karnal. Further, switch onto NH 21 and drive straight to reach Mohali via Zirakpur. The road trip from Delhi to Mohali should take around six hours.

Overview –

Mohali is a major city of Punjab, located adjacent to the state capital Chandigarh. The satellite city along with Chandigarh and Panchukla also constitute the ‘Chandigarh Tricity’. Mohali is renowned for housing the PCA (Punjab Cricket Association) Stadium, an international stadium equipped with world class facilities. Visitors throng the city in large numbers, especially to see international cricket matches organised at the PCA Stadium. In addition, Mohali also serves as an excellent base to visit Chandigarh, home to several well-laid gardens, museums, shopping centres and much more.

Don’t Miss –

The massive PCA Stadium is one of the major attractions of Mohali. The stadium organises international as well as domestic cricket matches at frequent intervals. Most of the tourist attractions are located in nearby cities of Chandigarh and Panchkula. Some of the popular attractions around Mohali are Sukhna Lake (Chandigarh), Rock Garden (Chandigarh), Rose Garden (Chandigarh), Arts Museum (Chandigarh), Vatika Gardens (Panchkula) and Nada Sahib Gurdwara (Panchkula). Visit the commercial centre at Sector 17 in Chandigarh, for exciting shopping and eating experiences. 

Malshej Ghat - A weekend getaway from Mumbai & Pune

Location: Maharasthra

Distance: From Mumbai – 150 km, From Pune – 120 km

Popular As: Hill Station

Getting There –

By Train – Kalyan railway station, at a distance of 60 km, is the nearest railhead from Malshej Ghat. From Kalyan, taxi, bus and auto-rickshaw services are available to Malshej Ghat at regular intervals. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on NH 3 close to Bhiwandi. Then, take a right onto State Highway to reach Malshej Ghat via Kalyan, Murbad and Saralgaon. The road trip from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat should take around three hours. 

Overview – Malshej Ghat is a little known hill station of Maharashtra, located close to Mumbai and Pune. Set amidst the lofty rugged hills of the Western Ghat ranges, the hill station greets the visitors with its pristine natural environs, hazy tops and ice cold cascades. Tourists throng the hill station in large number, especially during monsoon (July to September) to enjoy the mesmerising views of the heavy fog, deep valleys, amazing waterfalls and beautiful surroundings. Malshej Ghat is also home to huge varieties of flora and fauna, including the interesting avian population. 

Don’t Miss – Malshej Ghat is a paradise for avid trekkers and hikers. The rolling hills provide some never before experience to adventure enthusiasts. Scale the mystic peaks covered with dense fog or explore the thrilling trek routes leading to the waterfalls and other exciting places in the region. Visit the Shivneri Fort (the birthplace of Shivaji), Harishchandragad and other forts located in the vicinity. Take an excursion to nearby Khireshwar village famous for Siberian Hemingo birds, flock the place every year between July and September. 

Incredible India! Alibaug - a beachside town in Maharashtra

Fast Fact

Location: Located on Konkan Coast in Southern Maharashtra

Distance: 110 kms from Mumbai

Altitude: Sea Level

Best time to visit: Though Alibaug is a tourist destination for all seasons, the months of August to October are quite rainy, and in spite of the beauty of the sea and the inland lakes and greenery in this season, it is recommended to avoid it if lounging on the beaches is your intention. Summers are pleasant, with a maximum temperature of 36 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Alibaug is from November to July.

Recommended For: Single, Couple, Family (with children), Friends, Senior travellers

Overview of Alibaug

Alibaug (or Alibaugh), is a beautiful beachside town on the Konkan Coast, in the Raigad District of Maharashtra. Filled with beautiful beaches and numerous beautiful temples, Alibaug is also home to a sea fort called Kulaba Fort, which was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1680. It is an extremely popular getaway for citizens of Mumbai, and offers them numerous unspoiled beaches, and delicious seafood, along with some historical and religious monuments. In fact, in the present day, Alibaug’s primary source of revenue is in tourism.

How to Reach Alibaug

Alibaug is situated on the Konkan Coast in the Raigad District of southern Maharashtra, about 110 km from Mumbai.

By Air - The nearest airport is Mumbai International Airport, about 120 km away

By Rail - Nearest major railhead is Pen, about 28 km from Alibaug. From Pen, taxis and buses are easily available to take you to Alibaug. Panvel, 85 km away, is another major railhead.

By Road - From Mumbai take NH 17 (Mumbai Goa Highway) till 8 km after Pen, where you reach the Wadkal crossing. Here, proceed straight (left turn continues towards Goa), and Alibaugh is 22 km away.

Local Transport around Alibaug - There are lots of auto rickshaws (shared as well as individual) available for local transport. There are plenty of buses as well. You can also rent motorcycles, apart from taxis and cars.

Must See in and around Alibaug

Visit the historical and impressive sea fort of Kulaba (Kolaba), built by the Maratha hero – Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1680. This fort is unique in that it can be accessed on foot during low-tide, by walking the 1.5 kilometre stretch. Other places to visit include the famous Magnetic Observatory, as well as the beautiful temples of Vikramvinayak, Uma-Maheshwar, Balaji, and Kanakeshwar. Nearby, just 15 km away, lies a unique town called Chaul, which has plenty of monuments like Buddhist caves, Portuguese ruins, the Hamam Khana, an old church and even a synagogue! Other sights include the Tower of St. Barbara, the famous Murud Janjira and its legendarily-unvanquished sea fort, Sagargarh, Kanhoji Angre Samadhi, Datta Mandir, and Hingulja Mandir.

Must Do/Must Experience at Alibaug

You can simply chill on the many beautiful beaches of Alibaug, which are perfect primarily for strolls and sunbathing, since swimming is prohibited here due to the very strong currents in the sea. This is what Alibaug is all about, relaxed lounging on miles of unpolluted beaches. Famous beaches include: Alibaug Beach, Kihim Beach, Mandwa Beach, Kashid Beach, Nandgaon Beach, Akshi Beach, Chaul Revadanda Beach, Varsoli Beach, Saswane Beach, Rewas Beach, Awas Beach, and Nagao Beach.

What to Eat at Alibaug

Famous across India, Konkan food is absolutely delicious, and Alibaug is no exception. With its own distinct way of cooking food, Konkon cuisine uses coconut liberally in various forms such as grated, dry grated, fried, coconut paste, coconut oil, and coconut milk. Though Konkanastha Brahmin style food is vegetarian and not spicy, non-vegetarian dishes in particular are famous for the use of red chillies in their preparation, including such spices as coriander seeds, peppercorns, cumin, cardamom, ginger, garlic, and many more. 

Common souring agents in Konkan food, which provide the distinctive tangy flavours, are kokum, tamarind, and raw mango. Seafood dishes dominate the Konkan cuisine, and crab, prawn, shrimp, and various sorts of fish are a staple diet for most Konkans, along with rice. Common dishes are Sol Kadhi (an energizing curry drink), Kombdi Vade (a sort of chicken curry), Mori Masala (shark curry), Bangda Fry (Fish fry), Malvani Mutton Curry, Khavda Curry (made from a local Konkani bird called Khavda), Bombay Duck Fry, Phanasachi Bhaji (exotic vegetarian Jackfruit dish), and others. 

A good place to eat in Alibaug is the famous Sanman Restaurant, which specialises in local seafood. The Masala Garlic Crab and the Pomfret Rice Plate are must tries. Also visit Flora Restaurant for good vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian cuisine, and head to Hotel Ravikiran’s Sudama Restaurant for excellent and authentic local cuisine.

Shopping at Alibaug

If you are looking for a big shopping experience in this serene coastal town, then Alibaug will leave you disappointed. A better idea might to enjoy the town’s beautiful beaches.

Nightlife in Alibaug

There is virtually no nightlife to speak of in Alibaug, and chilling at your hotel’s bar is good idea, as is simply relaxing below the stars on the beach at night.

Events (Festivals) at Alibaug

A typical Maharashtrian place, Alibaug celebrates the famous Ganesh Chaturthi festival (September) with all the pomp and splendour of its bigger counterparts. Deepavali or Diwali (October or November) is another festival celebrated with much enthusiasm and fanfare in Alibaug.

Excursions around Alibaug

Murud Janjira as well as Padmadurg contain remarkable and historically important sea forts, and are must visits. Now, Alibaug, as mentioned earlier, rests on the Konkan coast, and there are numerous places to visit along the coast and just inland, such as Ratnagiri, Dapoli, Amboli, Madh Island, Goa, Udipi, Ganapatipule, Sindhudurg, and even Mangalore. Other places to visit include Lonavala and Khandala, Karjat, and Shrivardhan.

Top 5 Nearby Getaways

Chaul - Located just 15 km from Alibaug, Chaul is place that is unique in India. A historical but small town, it contains diverse cultures, embodied in the Hamam Khana, the Buddhist caves, the synagogue, a church, apart from Portuguese ruins!

Murud - A quaint coastal town 45 km away, Murud is home to one of the most famous sea forts in the world, built by an Abyssinian pirate named Siddhi Johar, a fort that has never been conquered.

Kashid - About 30 km away from Alibaug, along the Alibaug-Murud highway, Kashid is considered to be the home of one of the best beaches in India, with pristine white sand and clear water.

Ganapatipule - About 250 km away, this temple town has a unique mix of religious fervour, seaside cliffs, and impressive beaches.

Shrivardhan – About 105 km away, Shrivardhan is a historical town with colonial and mythological importance. It also has excellent beaches.

Incredible India! Unexplored Attraction! Masrur Temple, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Intricately carved from one single piece of sandstone, almost nothing is known about the Masrur Temples. Besides conjecture and legend, there are no hard facts connecting the complex to a people or even a time period. When the temples were first constructed, there were 19 in total, all ranging in size and complexity. Over the years, invasion and natural disaster has left only 15 ruins standing, but the high concentration and unique architecture make it one of the most intriguing temple sites in India.

The temples were built by the Pandava, five brothers who engaged in a massive war with their cousins in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Later archeological speculation supposed the temples were built in the 9th century by wealthy traders, who built the complex as a shrine to Shiva, Rama, Lakshman and Sita. A number of stone statues depicting these deities still exist inside of the larger temples. Along with the actual structures, a 50 meter-long reservoir that is also hollowed from sandstone lies in front of the main structure, and reflects the stone-carved mystery in its waters.

The setting, the carvings and the layout is a must-see.

Incredible India! Mandu - The city of Joy in Madhya Pradesh

Fast Facts About Mandu

Located in the State of : Madhya Pradesh

District: Dhar

Famous As / For : Heritage, History

Languages Spoken: Hindi, English

Best Time to Visit Mandu: July to March

Average Temperatures at Mandu: Summer 33 to 44°C, Winter 10 to 27°C

Altitude of Mandu: 633 metre

STD code of Mandu: 07292

Earlier known as the CITY OF JOY and now called the LOST WORLD, Mandu is built on the edge of the Malwa Plateau overlooking the narmada valley and is around 20 sq kms in area. It is a fort city with the fort housing a number of palaces, mosques, reservoirs, ravines and having 12 gates. This is a 10th century creation by Raja Bhoj. Mandu is located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. Its main attraction is its ruined forts and structures. The tourists find the rich history behind the ruined structures very interesting.

Fairy tale love story of a Muslim Prince with a local poor shepherd girl, brings the mythological face to Mandu. Mandu, a small town on the edge of Malwa Plateau, is surrounded by forests and has a historical significance. History tells that the founder of this cute, beautiful town was Raja Bhoj and was once a royal retreat. Architectural marvel is the main attraction in this city, with reminiscence of ancient architecture, way back to 10th century is still visible. Mandu has finest examples of Afghan architecture in India. The entire Mandu region has a number of wonderful palaces, baths, attractive canals and artistically crafted pavilions bringing out the age old fairy tale love story with its all beautiful pop and pomp. Rock cut caves with enchanting paintings decorating the walls and ceilings are added attractions.

Antiquity and Artistry merges here to bring the some of the marvelous structures, the massive gateways to Mandu is an example of this ancient artistic excellence. It is city of monuments with some of them are Alamgir, Bhangi, Rampol Darwaza, Jehangir Gate and Tarapur Gate. Mandu is one of the few places where the very rare Baobab tree grows. Mandu welcomes the visitors will all her charm and heritage; this is a price worthy place to visit. Mandu is the perfect honeymoon destination as it is the city of love and delight.

Tourist Attractions in Mandu

Key attractions are the architecture of the era, a swaying palace, ship-like harem, pavilions, stunning collection of ruins (including a royal palace & mosque) and the Nil Kanth palace (pilgrimage place for Lord Shiva devotees).

How to Reach Mandu

Mandu is about a 100 kms from Indore and thus well connected by rail and air.

By Air: Indore Airport or Ahilyabai Holker Airport is the nearest airport to Mandu. Mandu is about 100 km from the airport and taxi charges costs about Rs 2000. Indore is a domestic terminal and connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur and Ranchi with limited flights.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Ratlam Railway Station, which is about 120 km away from Mandu. This is an important junction in the western railways and served by trains from different parts of the country.

By Bus: Mandu is connected by State owned buses to many cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states. Many private bus services are available to Mandu from cities of Madhya Pradesh and rest of India. Regular deluxe and semi deluxe buses are available from Indore (100 km), Bhopal (278 km), Ratlam (125 km) and Ujjain. Deluxe buses charges about Rs 3 per km.

Hotels in Mandu

Tourists visit the town of Mandu round the year, hence it would be ideal if the hotel is booked in advance. Most of the luxury hotels are situated on the outskirts. The most luxurious ones have fantastic facilities such as the swimming pools, night bars, multiple cuisines and air conditioned lobbies. The cost for a night’s stay is around Rs. 2500. The mid-range hotels are much cheaper. The cost of accommodation is around Rs. 800 to Rs. 1500 for a day. Budget hotels are the cheapest and can be found everywhere. They provide both a/c and non a/c rooms. The basic facilities usually fits the budget as it could cost you only Rs. 500 for a day’s stay.

Some of the famous hotels in Mandu are Hotel Rupmati (Mandu) and Jheera Bagh Palace (Mandu).

Incredible India! Anaimalai - A Seculded Hill Station of Tamil Nadu

Fast Facts About Anaimalai

Located in the State of : Tamil Nadu

District: Coimbatore

Famous As / For : Wildlife / Historic link

Languages Spoken: Malayalam, English

Best Time to Visit Anaimalai: November to May

Average Temperatures at Anaimalai: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 22 to 33°C

Altitude of Anaimalai: 2695 metre

STD code of Anaimalai: 04253

Situated in the Coimbatore Hills district in the state of Tamil Nadu, Anaimalai is the biggest draw for tourists in this area. Anaimalai is renowned for the remarkable beauty of the natural landscape and varied shades of green make up the dense forest of this area. The village of Anaimalai exists near an abundant supply of wildlife. Animals like panthers, crocodiles, tigers, elephants, spotted deer, civet cats, and wild boars are found in the region. Numerous birds can also be sighted in the area. It is possible to spot such birds as the Malabar pied hornbill, black headed oriole, rocket-tailed drongo, tree pie, spotted dove, and red whiskered bulbul. In fact, the vary name of this village invokes thoughts of wildlife, since the name's translation means elephant hill.

Anaimalai itself also has some incredibly interesting history. The village is one of the eight sacred Jaina hills. Right by the village there is a natural cavern that contains numerous berths that are located both inside and outside of it. There is a Brahmi inscription on the outside wall that is dated back to the 1st or 2nd century. This inscription states that the berths were gifts from Nathan of Kunrattur made in honor of three monks named Eri Aritan, Attuvay, and Arrattakayipan. This is a rather unusual find since this village was not known for being a lama center until the 9th century. It was around that time that several stone sculptures started to be carved into the rocks by devout local people.

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary also called Anaimalai Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the village. Other attractions in and around Anaimalai include Mt. Stuart Block, Top Slip, Kolikamuthi Elephant Camp, Varagaliar Elephant Camp, Parambikkulam and Thoonakkadavu. Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking amidst the dense forest along the thrilling trails. So, plan a trip to Anaimalai in Tamil Nadu to experience a wonderful combination of nature and adventure accompanied with rich history.

Hotels in Anaimalai

Limited accommodation is available at Anaimalai. There are tourist lodges and budget hotels with very basic facilities at Anaimalai. ARV’s Lodge on Masani Amman Kovil Street is a good place to stay at Anaimalai. Rooms are available at a cheap rate of Rs. 400 per day.

How to Reach Anaimalai

By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore Airport, about 95 kms. away, which is served by flights from important cities of the country. After reaching at Coimbatore Airport, you can hire a taxi that will cost you about Rs. 1200.

By Rail: Coimbatore (50 km) and Cochin (100 km) are the nearest railheads from Anaisalai. Express and mail trains connect these railway stations with rest of the country.

By Bus: Tourist and govt buses are available for Anaisalai from Chennai, Bangalore, Cochin and nearby cities.

Incredible India! Madikeri - A Beautiful Hill Station of Karnataka

Fast Facts About Madikeri

Located in the State of : Karnataka

District: Kodagu

Famous As / For : Hill Station, Fort, Trekking

Languages Spoken: Kannada, Kodava, Byari

Best Time to Visit Madikeri: October to April

Average Temperatures at Madikeri: Summer 23 to 31°C, Winter 16 to 23°C

Altitude of Madikeri: 1525 metre

STD code of Madikeri: 08272

Earlier known as Mercara, Madikeri is the picturesque capital of Coorg and draws leisure travelers and adventure seekers from far and near. Located in the hills of Karnataka, the hill station is present in the Kodagu region in the state. Tourists flock to Madikeri during the peak season in order to revel in the beauty of the place. In fact, it seems the time has stopped at Madikeri for feasting the eyes of its visitors. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this hilly town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views altogether make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.

Dotted with a cluster of red-roofed dwellings and a bustling bazaar, the town situated at an elevation of 1525 m, has a charming old-world feel. Madikeri town is full of trekking options with some of the most picturesque trek routes in Karnataka a perfect gateway for a leisure holiday. Raja's seat perched atop a hill is where the kings of yore spent many pleasant evenings watching the golden sunset. Madikeri Fort is one of the major attractions of Madikeri.

Also referred to as the land of the Kodavas, Madikeri is inhabited by Kodavas wearing distinctive dresses, the men wearing wraparound robes called the Kupya and the women with a distinctive style of wearing the sari. Kodavas have many distinctive practices such as carrying ceremonial knives, and martial war dances. The culture also includes communal gatherings where drink, dance and special meat dishes seasoned with Garcinia are central attractions. The locals in Madikeri celebrate many festivals like Kailpodhu, Kaveri Sankramana, Puttari and Dasara. Karaga Festival also starts during the time of Navarathri. Madikeri Dasara procession is a very beautiful procession of mantapas.

Modes of Transport in Madikeri

Traveling around the town of Madikeri is quite hard, though. This is because not many modes of transport are available within the hill station of Madikeri . Some of the places of interest in this region can be easily covered by walk. While traveling in Madikeri, however, you may need to visit the nearby regions as well, like the Abbey Falls.

Taxis - In order to cover tourists destinations without any problems, you can opt for taxis in the hill station of Madikeri. There are no major taxis or car rental agencies available in the hill station of Madikeri, however you can rent a car or call a taxi from one of the nearby tourist locations. All the places of interest around the region are almost twenty five (25 km) to thirty kilometers away (30 km). Opting for a taxi can cost you around Rs 1000 to 1200, but the ride will be comfortable.

Accommodation in Madikeri

There are hotels, resorts, and homestays in Madikeri that offers comfortable stay to guests. Some of the popular accommodation options in Madikeri include Coorg Hallimane, Veera Bhoomi Tourist Village, Misty Heights Hotel Madikeri , Madikeri Medium Range Hotels , Hotel Coorg International Madikeri, Madikeri Resorts, Misty Wood Resort, Parumpara Holiday Resort and Madikeri Homestays

Incredible India! Wardha - A Little Explored Destination in Maharashtra

Fast Facts About Wardha

Located in the State of : Maharashtra

District: Wardha

Famous As / For : Sightseeing Spot, Cotton Production

Languages Spoken: Marathi & Hindi

Best Time to Visit Wardha: September to March

Average Temperatures at Wardha: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 20 to 33°C

Altitude of Wardha: 234 metre

STD code of Wardha: 07152

A charming city in the Wardha district of the state of Maharashtra, Wardha is located to the South of the River Wardha. Founded in 1866, Wardha is a relatively modern place and mainly known for its cotton production. However, Wardha region has rich historic connection and there have been settlements in the regions for many centuries. The area was ruled by many kingdoms such as the Satavanahas, Mauryas, Sungas and Vakatakas and each have left their mark on the place. The place has subsequently been ruled by Muslim Dynasties and finally by the British Empire.

There are many places of tourist interest that one can visit in the city of Wardha. In fact, the historic city of Wardha was an important part of the independence movement and Gandhi’s Ashram is located in the city as well. This Ashram has now been converted to a national institute and it is worth visiting. You can see a spinning wheel that was used by Mahatama Gandhi , and his spectacles as well. The Ashram also has a chronographic collection of photos that depict the life of Mahatma Gandhi. The nearby city of Sewagram is known as the as the sister city of Wardha and their histories are entwined.