However, the hurly-burly of hectic Metro life has tailored this leisure privilege. Worry not, travel lovers can still plan weekend freak outs. A well planned short tour to nearby spots can be as cheerful and energizing as the long vacation.
‘Vacation’, the word that can paint a rosy picture instantly, however, is not a blinking boon one can enjoy anytime!
Especially when long leaves can foul-play with your job; it is advisable to avoid the risk! Do not make that long face! As the solution lies in your calendar!
Well, no need to get puzzled, it is nothing but your short and sweet weekend escapades. Choose the off days of the week and make the best of them in that short, yet, exciting trip of the lifetime.
Here are some of the exotic destinations that you can explore for weekend getaways, around the metros of India.
FROM MUMBAI
Shillim
Sited on the Sahyadri mountain range, Shillim is 90kms away from Mumbai. Located inthe Mavaal region, it holds significant historic importance. It offers a placid beauty sans modernization. The prime attraction of Shillim is the spectacular Lake Pawna which facilitates the boating option. Trekkers will get abundant chances of trekking at Tikona hill. The Ariel view of the place can be received through paragliding.
Gorai and Manori Beaches
These two beaches are the ideal weekend escape for those who are just looking forward to having absolute relaxed weekend breaks. Gorai beach is 44Kms away, whereas Manori beach is at 48Kms away from Mumbai.
FROM DELHI
Agra
The Delhi-Agra expressway makes the to-and-fro Delhi-Agra voyage absolutely hassle-free. Situated at a distance of 197Kms, the Taj city has become the most preferred weekend spot for the Delhites. It is beholding one of the most spectacular wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. This is the reason that every year this city witnesses tourists sprawling in, from all across the globe.
Other than Taj, there are numerous other attractions in Agra, such as Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb, Mehtab Bagh and Agra Fort.
Bharatpur
Located 186Kms away from Delhi and famous for its enthralling wild life tales, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a UNESCO certified World Heritage Site. Every year, rare migratory birds, visit Bharatpur in winters. The city also houses several ancient relics that date back to the early 15th century.
FROM KOLKATTA
Shanti Niketan (Abode of Peace)
Away from the maddening crowd, it is an ideal weekend getaway for the Kolkatians. Nestled in 212Kms by road, it is the home of Nobel Laureate and National poet of India Rabindranath Tagore. This University town is not only rich in culture but also in scenic beauty. One can get a glimpse of village life; enjoy various festivals including Poush Mela, Basanta Utsav, Nandan Mela etcetera. One can also bring home local handicrafts hawked at Sonajhuri Haat.
Shundarban
Sited at a distance of 114kms, it is a perfect spot for wildlife as well as photography lovers. This is the hub of Sundari trees, thus the place named accordingly. This dense national park covers an approximate area of area 38,500sqft. Besides 30,000 Royal Bengal Tigers, it accumulates deer, wild boars, fowls and reptiles.
From Chennai
Pondichery
Located 244kms away from Chennai and known as the “Quintessence of France” because it was under the rule of French people for 281 years; this is a perfect weekend getaway. The city still holds the mark from past in its magnificent colonial mansions, serene boulevards, name of the streets and peaceful promenades. Auroville is a place which houses 50,000 people throughout the globe. At the center of the city lies sacred Matrimandir, a lake and the amphitheater with Urn of Human Unity containing the soils of 121 countries and 23 Indian states. One should not miss the chance of treating his taste buds with lip-smacking French food served in the local eatery.
Dakhinashetra
Developed and maintained by Madras Craft Foundation, it is small heritage village positioned on the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach. Situated at 21Kms away from Chennai, this village represents glaring example of traditional South Indian art, craft as well as architecture. One must try hands at crafting a terracotta doll.
Some pointers before you pack your bags:
- Make a thorough research of nearby spots
- Plan your travel idea at least four to five days prior to travel
- Prepare a “things to do” list especially for pending tasks before and after the holidays. This will help to plan in a systematic way and also to get back on track quickly post-vacation
- Get financially prepared. Make a rough estimate of the trip expenses. Though, now we have the privilege of carrying cards instead of cash, but it is always advisable to carry liquid cash
- Make advance bookings for the accommodations
Do not struggle for nearly impossible extended leaves; plan the weekends out and refresh your mind, body and soul. Happy weekend guys!
