1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
The royal tiger, the Asiatic elephants, the gurgling streams and beautiful silences beckon. What better way to disconnect? You can fly into Dehradun, and drive the 180 km to Jim Corbett National Park from there.
2. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
If you haven’t already, put this one on your bucket list. Experience a full moon night in the white salt desert of Kutch. The views from Kala Dungar, the highest point in Kutch are spectacular.
3. Nubra Valley, Ladakh
Located about 150 km from Leh, the Nubra Valley is a Ladakh experience not to be missed. Little villages that are oases amidst the stark slopes give you a glimpse of the Ladakhi way of life. Non-locals need a permit to visit.
4. Alleppey, Kerala
Cruise down the backwaters in Kerala in a luxurious houseboat. The views are great, the food delicious and the tranquility is unbeatable. Stay overnight and experience the sounds of just the insects and the water around you. Alleppey is just an hour’s drive from Kochi.
5. Thar Desert, Rajasthan
Camp in the Thar desert, and soak in the culture of Rajasthan. Experience a camel ride, watch local dance and puppet shows, and have a simple, yet tasty local feast. You can fly to Jodhpur from major cities in India.
6. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Scuba diving in the surreal waters can be a life-changing experience. Fish in a myriad of colours and gorgeous coral reefs will make it unforgettable. Barefoot Scuba resort has a wide range of courses for beginners and professional divers.
7. Chettinad, Tamil Nadu
When you stroll through the lanes of Karaikudi, you cannot help being engulfed by the elegant architecture, the cultural richness and the warmth of the Chettiars around you. Ancient temples, delicious Chettinad chicken and delicate traditional jewellery are draws in this beautiful region. The nearest airport is at Madurai, less than two hours away.
8. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Need a spiritual getaway to retrospect and clear your head? The Tawang Monastery, amidst the snow-capped hills, will offer you the peace you’re looking for. Switch off that phone and that laptop; take long walks in this calm retreat. Fly into Guwahati, and Tawang is a 11-hour, breathtakingly scenic road trip from there.
9. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
It’s a perfect blend of the unapologetically loud, and immensely spiritual – it is a riot of colours and sounds. While millions gather to wash away their sins in the Ganga, visit Varanasi just to experience a whole new world.
10. Mawsynram, Meghalaya
Located just 65 km from the state’s capital, Shillong, Mawsynram is reportedly the wettest place on Earth. Witness the full fury of the rain, and make sure you visit the beautiful caves to see their limestone formations. Shillong is 120 km from Guwahati.
11. Pushkar, Rajasthan
Very different from most other cities in Rajasthan, Pushkar’s energy and magnetism will dazzle you. Home to one of the few Brahma temples in the world, Pushkar is also famous for its Camel Fair held in October/November every year. Pushkar is a two and a half hour drive from the Jaipur airport.
12. Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Close to a 9-hour drive from Mumbai, Sindhudurg is a Konkan district that will have you charmed in no time. The dramatic Sindhudurg Fort complements the solitude offered by the beautiful coast. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can scuba dive too.
13. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
Trekking through the Valley of Flowers in the month of July once the flowers begin blossoming will help you disconnect from the world, and take in the serenity that you need so badly. So take time to smell the flowers, and you won’t regret it.
14. Munnar, Kerala
Gently sloping, lush green tea plantations for miles, a hot cuppa in the land of tea itself – sounds enticing? Head to this retreat in Kerala where the hills, rivers, elephants and yes, the tea, will make you feel blessed. Munnar is a three and a half hour drive from Kochi.
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