Plan an exciting adventure in Himachal Pradesh or Tawang
ET Bureau|
Feb 15, 2018, 05.27 AM IST
By Shireen Kanchwala
To add some strokes of romance and affection, look deep into nature. If you are wondering where to head, our nation provides several options based on the theme you wish to explore.
Plan a getaway as per the activities that interests you both; it is recommended that you choose lesser known getaways, allowing you to enjoy some intimate moments together. If you’re seeking the sun and sand, then think beyond just Goa and head to Varkala in Kerala instead, which offers a quintessential backdrop for a lazy day at the beach. Want to take that one exciting adventurous step together? Think Himachal Pradesh or Tawang. For more options, read on...
ABUNDANT WILDLIFE AND MYSTIC FALLS
Region: Bandhavgarh and Rewa, Madhya Pradesh
Make the most of the last few weeks with a slight nip in the air and explore the central belt of our nation, which packs in a mix of destinations. Madhya Pradesh offers a little something for both thrill seekers and nature lovers: Bandhavgarh, needs no introduction. This mesmeric forest area is home of amazing wildlife like Royal Bengal tigers, white tigers, monkeys, deer, elephants, primates, and many endangered birds.
ADVENTURES IN THE WILD: Enjoy a cosy jeep safari with your loved one to complete your adventure in Bandhavgarh and (below) Waterfall in Rewa (©ImagesBazaar)
Visit the Bandhavgarh Fort, which offers a stunning panorama of the entire forest area. There are also romantic stay options inside the park for honeymoon couples. Rewa, a lesser known jewel, enjoys a soothing climate and abundant greenery. These factors have given rise to a lineage of the rare white tigers to flourish. Rewa’s charm is further illustrated through the many waterfalls, which offer a perfect ambiance for romance. The falls drop from a great height, along a backdrop of a majestic, flat-rocky terrain, you can spend a day visiting the Keoti, Purva and Bahuti Falls.
A PERFECT BACKDROP FOR ROMANCE
Region: Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The tiny tinsel town Dalhousie, offers little night life. Hence, most travellers who wish to de-stress and slow down their pace come here. Dalhousie hence serves as a magnet for people dwelling in the busy cities of the northern belt. Replete with misty valleys, green landscapes, snow capped mountains, charming colonial structures and enchanting lakes, there’s lots more to Dalhousie than its landscape. The numerous wellness retreats and monasteries further add to the serenity of this hill station. For those getting married in the summer months, Dalhousie offers a perfect break from the scorching heat of the sun. A walk along Dalhousie transports you to a different region altogether; the Victorian-style mansions, charming colonial buildings, Scottish architecture and quaint churches remind you of the bygone British era. The Dhauladhar Range of mountains envelope you with a sense of solitude, giving you the feeling of being the only two people around. At Dalhousie, many retreats offer a healthy scrumptious spread, which is a hit with health-conscious individuals.
VALLEY VIEWS: Dalhousie is perfect to be explored on foot. Simply find a quiet spot to enjoy the views and a fruitful conversation (Pic: Roopaushree PRS)
EMBRACE THE MAJESTIC HIMALAYAS
Region: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is both historically and naturally endowed. The journey to Tawang itself is good enough to elevate the mood and give a romantic vibe. Take the route from Guwahati to Tawang by road via Tejpur, Dirang, Sela Pass to enjoy beautiful landscapes. One of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan vista, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, as it is the only way that connects Tawang district of the state to the rest of the country. The nearby Sela Lake is as heavenly as it gets. The two combine to enchant one and all by their mystic beauty. Beside, the majestic Himalaya serves as witness as you cosy up and gaze into the frozen Sela Lake. Another beauty, the Pankang teng tso Lake (also called P T Tso) and the other half-frozen lakes in the vicinity with cotton-candy clouds forming a canopy over the lake, are a few other surreal sights to enjoy. The natural beauty and solitude of Gudpi and Chong-Chugmi Ranges, Tawang chu River and the views over Tawang Valley are truly mesmerising.
POSTCARD-PERFECT: The landscape of Tawang dusted with powder snow and cottoncandy clouds looks splendid (Pic: Swapan Nandi)
ENJOY A TASTE OF BEACH LIFE
Region: Varkala, Kerala
At Varkala in Kerala, the cliffs embrace the Arabian Sea. These tertiary sedimentary cliff formations are a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast, which renders Varkala its uniqueness. Counted as one of the top 10 seasonal beaches, the stretch offers a mix of landscapes, brown sand, and sea. It’s perfect for those looking to unwind, take a dip in the sea or just watch the world go by. Varkala, per say, exudes a vibe of a Mediterranean beach town. Apart from swimming and sunbathing, the beach allows you to enjoy striking sunset views with a backdrop of the long winding stretch of cliff clinging to the calm waters of the sea. The beach is lined with numerous spas, mineral springs and ayurvedic centres offering the best treatments and therapies. Summing up, it’s a wonderful destination to chill out and revitalise your senses at famous Ayurvedic massage centres available in many resorts of Varkala. In between all the fun, whisper a prayer and be blessed at the two thousandyear-old Janardhanaswamy Temple that stands on the cliffs overlooking the beach.
SOAK UP THE SUN: Visitors enjoy the scenic views of Varkala Beach dotted with colourful parasols (Pic: Swathi Balaji)
ESCAPE TO THE SERENE WATER FALLS, SANCTUARIES AND COFFEE PLANTATIONS
Region: Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, titled as the Scotland of India, is one of the prime hill stations of Western Ghats and a treasure trove of biodiversity. A misty ambiance coupled with evergreen forests, lush valleys and the streams cutting right through them, add charm to the hill station. Along with this, coffee plantations, orange groves interspersed with cardamom and pepper gives the area a high concentration of diverse endemic fauna.
SERENE: Coorg’s scenery is a great stress-buster, especially if you are looking to get away from the city life! (Pic: Ananya Jalali)
Due to a steep elevation gradient ranging from 120 m to 1,750 m above sea level, high rainfall and many streams and waterfalls in its rainforests; this place is known to support a maximum number of amphibians and reptiles one can see in a single location. If you are looking to add an element of nature and adventure to your outing, visit the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Labelled as one of the best for bird watching, it is a refuge to several endangered species. This attracts the likes of many nature enthusiasts.
A SPICY AFFAIR: A farm stay option allows you to observe pepper and other plantations (Pic: Ananya Jalali)
Apart from the scenic beauty of Coorg, which is known to add more glamour to the romance between couples, it is the variety of stay options that it offers. From high-end luxury resorts to eco-friendly retreats to homestay experiences at a plantation and budget options offering numerous activities across a scenic backdrop, a stay in Coorg is a hit even as a quick getaway.
HIDE AND SEEK: An elephant heads to quench his thirst at the Nagarahole Sanctuary in Kodagu District (Pic: Pascal Lopes)
Besides, a visit to the famous Abbey Falls and the Irupu Falls will give you plenty of backdrops for clicking romantic pictures. Raja’s Seat, a viewpoint offering uninterrupted views of the valley is another spot to capture memorable moments. End your trip with a visit to Talacauvery, the origin of River Cauvery, a very peaceful sight to watch the calm waters and the sunlight glittering over.
To add some strokes of romance and affection, look deep into nature. If you are wondering where to head, our nation provides several options based on the theme you wish to explore.
Plan a getaway as per the activities that interests you both; it is recommended that you choose lesser known getaways, allowing you to enjoy some intimate moments together. If you’re seeking the sun and sand, then think beyond just Goa and head to Varkala in Kerala instead, which offers a quintessential backdrop for a lazy day at the beach. Want to take that one exciting adventurous step together? Think Himachal Pradesh or Tawang. For more options, read on...
ABUNDANT WILDLIFE AND MYSTIC FALLS
Region: Bandhavgarh and Rewa, Madhya Pradesh
Make the most of the last few weeks with a slight nip in the air and explore the central belt of our nation, which packs in a mix of destinations. Madhya Pradesh offers a little something for both thrill seekers and nature lovers: Bandhavgarh, needs no introduction. This mesmeric forest area is home of amazing wildlife like Royal Bengal tigers, white tigers, monkeys, deer, elephants, primates, and many endangered birds.
ADVENTURES IN THE WILD: Enjoy a cosy jeep safari with your loved one to complete your adventure in Bandhavgarh and (below) Waterfall in Rewa (©ImagesBazaar)
Visit the Bandhavgarh Fort, which offers a stunning panorama of the entire forest area. There are also romantic stay options inside the park for honeymoon couples. Rewa, a lesser known jewel, enjoys a soothing climate and abundant greenery. These factors have given rise to a lineage of the rare white tigers to flourish. Rewa’s charm is further illustrated through the many waterfalls, which offer a perfect ambiance for romance. The falls drop from a great height, along a backdrop of a majestic, flat-rocky terrain, you can spend a day visiting the Keoti, Purva and Bahuti Falls.
A PERFECT BACKDROP FOR ROMANCE
Region: Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The tiny tinsel town Dalhousie, offers little night life. Hence, most travellers who wish to de-stress and slow down their pace come here. Dalhousie hence serves as a magnet for people dwelling in the busy cities of the northern belt. Replete with misty valleys, green landscapes, snow capped mountains, charming colonial structures and enchanting lakes, there’s lots more to Dalhousie than its landscape. The numerous wellness retreats and monasteries further add to the serenity of this hill station. For those getting married in the summer months, Dalhousie offers a perfect break from the scorching heat of the sun. A walk along Dalhousie transports you to a different region altogether; the Victorian-style mansions, charming colonial buildings, Scottish architecture and quaint churches remind you of the bygone British era. The Dhauladhar Range of mountains envelope you with a sense of solitude, giving you the feeling of being the only two people around. At Dalhousie, many retreats offer a healthy scrumptious spread, which is a hit with health-conscious individuals.
VALLEY VIEWS: Dalhousie is perfect to be explored on foot. Simply find a quiet spot to enjoy the views and a fruitful conversation (Pic: Roopaushree PRS)
EMBRACE THE MAJESTIC HIMALAYAS
Region: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is both historically and naturally endowed. The journey to Tawang itself is good enough to elevate the mood and give a romantic vibe. Take the route from Guwahati to Tawang by road via Tejpur, Dirang, Sela Pass to enjoy beautiful landscapes. One of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan vista, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, as it is the only way that connects Tawang district of the state to the rest of the country. The nearby Sela Lake is as heavenly as it gets. The two combine to enchant one and all by their mystic beauty. Beside, the majestic Himalaya serves as witness as you cosy up and gaze into the frozen Sela Lake. Another beauty, the Pankang teng tso Lake (also called P T Tso) and the other half-frozen lakes in the vicinity with cotton-candy clouds forming a canopy over the lake, are a few other surreal sights to enjoy. The natural beauty and solitude of Gudpi and Chong-Chugmi Ranges, Tawang chu River and the views over Tawang Valley are truly mesmerising.
POSTCARD-PERFECT: The landscape of Tawang dusted with powder snow and cottoncandy clouds looks splendid (Pic: Swapan Nandi)
ENJOY A TASTE OF BEACH LIFE
Region: Varkala, Kerala
At Varkala in Kerala, the cliffs embrace the Arabian Sea. These tertiary sedimentary cliff formations are a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast, which renders Varkala its uniqueness. Counted as one of the top 10 seasonal beaches, the stretch offers a mix of landscapes, brown sand, and sea. It’s perfect for those looking to unwind, take a dip in the sea or just watch the world go by. Varkala, per say, exudes a vibe of a Mediterranean beach town. Apart from swimming and sunbathing, the beach allows you to enjoy striking sunset views with a backdrop of the long winding stretch of cliff clinging to the calm waters of the sea. The beach is lined with numerous spas, mineral springs and ayurvedic centres offering the best treatments and therapies. Summing up, it’s a wonderful destination to chill out and revitalise your senses at famous Ayurvedic massage centres available in many resorts of Varkala. In between all the fun, whisper a prayer and be blessed at the two thousandyear-old Janardhanaswamy Temple that stands on the cliffs overlooking the beach.
SOAK UP THE SUN: Visitors enjoy the scenic views of Varkala Beach dotted with colourful parasols (Pic: Swathi Balaji)
ESCAPE TO THE SERENE WATER FALLS, SANCTUARIES AND COFFEE PLANTATIONS
Region: Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, titled as the Scotland of India, is one of the prime hill stations of Western Ghats and a treasure trove of biodiversity. A misty ambiance coupled with evergreen forests, lush valleys and the streams cutting right through them, add charm to the hill station. Along with this, coffee plantations, orange groves interspersed with cardamom and pepper gives the area a high concentration of diverse endemic fauna.
SERENE: Coorg’s scenery is a great stress-buster, especially if you are looking to get away from the city life! (Pic: Ananya Jalali)
Due to a steep elevation gradient ranging from 120 m to 1,750 m above sea level, high rainfall and many streams and waterfalls in its rainforests; this place is known to support a maximum number of amphibians and reptiles one can see in a single location. If you are looking to add an element of nature and adventure to your outing, visit the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Labelled as one of the best for bird watching, it is a refuge to several endangered species. This attracts the likes of many nature enthusiasts.
A SPICY AFFAIR: A farm stay option allows you to observe pepper and other plantations (Pic: Ananya Jalali)
Apart from the scenic beauty of Coorg, which is known to add more glamour to the romance between couples, it is the variety of stay options that it offers. From high-end luxury resorts to eco-friendly retreats to homestay experiences at a plantation and budget options offering numerous activities across a scenic backdrop, a stay in Coorg is a hit even as a quick getaway.
HIDE AND SEEK: An elephant heads to quench his thirst at the Nagarahole Sanctuary in Kodagu District (Pic: Pascal Lopes)
Besides, a visit to the famous Abbey Falls and the Irupu Falls will give you plenty of backdrops for clicking romantic pictures. Raja’s Seat, a viewpoint offering uninterrupted views of the valley is another spot to capture memorable moments. End your trip with a visit to Talacauvery, the origin of River Cauvery, a very peaceful sight to watch the calm waters and the sunlight glittering over.
