Culture & Living
Looking to escape to a scenic view this Valentine’s Day? Pick from our line-up of weekend getaways around your city
Even when you’re living in a metropolitan city, dating get can monotonous. Whether you’re tired of trying new restaurants or just looking for some quiet time, there’s no better time than February to renew the spark in your relationship. Considering Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year, why not make a weekend out of it and whisk your partner away from a romantic getaway? To help you plan your mini vacation, we round up the most scenic weekend getaways around Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru for you to take your pick from. Scroll ahead for our recommendations.
The Machan
The Machan is as green as it gets, whether you’re referring to its view of lush forests or its eco-friendly practices. The treehouse resort are located in the middle of a secluded tropical forest in the Western Ghats, spanning across 25 acres, and the treehouses themselves rise 30-45 feet above the forest floor. If you get tired of gazing at the scenery at any point (though we don’t think it’s likely), there are plenty of outdoor activities for two available, including stargazing, trekking and birdwatching.
Address: Private Road, Lonavala Rd, Atvan, Maharashtra
The Source at Sula vineyards
For the wine lovers, The Source at Sula is a cosy heritage winery resort that awe-inspiring views—you can gawk at the endless scape of the Sula Estate Vineyards, and those gentle hills that mesh into the Gangapur lake in the distance. For a mesmerising experience, head over to Pandav Leni, a group of 24 caves carved on a hillside that provide a bird’s-eye view of Nashik.
Address: Gangapur-Savargaon Road Gat 36/2, Govardhan Village, Nashik
Taj Rishikesh
Situated along the bank of river Ganga, this tranquil resort offers unhindered views of the Ganga and the Himalayas. The in-house restaurant serves authentic Pahadi cuisine, making it a great place for food enthusiasts, and they also have a ramping camp on offer. Alternatively, you can also book a couple’s yoga session at their expansive yoga pavilion.
Address: Singthali, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The Gateway Resort Damdama Lake
Located 45km from IGI Airport Delhi, the modern resort is perfect for those want to escape the noise and pollution of a big city. The lush greenery of the location, as well as a view of the Aravalli hills and Damdama lake nearby, promise a serene and memorable Valentine’s Day getaway.
Address: PO Damdama, Off, Sohna - Gurgaon Road, Gurugram
Vedic Village
Just 20 mins away from the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata lies a quaint resort and spa, called Vedic Village. If you and your partner are heavily into wellness and Ayurvedic practices, this is the getaway for you—they’re surrounded by greenery on all sides, and also offer Ayurvedic spas to rejuvenate your senses.
Address: Shikharpur, PO, Bagu, Newtown, Kolkata
Ffort Raichak
Even the trip to Ffort Raichak by Raichak on Ganges promises a romantic start to your Valentine’s Day getaway—that’s how perfect it is. Located in a grand, medieval fort-like building—complete with lush gardens and a moat—you need to take a ferry ride from Kolkata to reach the resort. Combine the experience of living at a heritage fort resort with a picturesque sunset along the Ganga river, and you’re sure to have a Valentine’s Day that you’re not likely to forget any time soon.
Address: Raichak (Singhalgunjabad), South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
Jungle Hut
Located at the foot of the Nilgiris, the tranquil resort offers up cosy cottages for quiet time with your partner. Partake in the bonfires, barbecues and jungle safaris when here, or sit idle doing absolutely nothing by the pool—it’ll be the perfect Valentine’s Day either way.
Address: Jungle Hut, Bokkapuram, Masinagudi, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
Evolve Back
Located in the middle of a 300-acre plantation, this resort rests at a height of 800m, giving you a mystic view of the mountains in the distance, and the Kaveri river. Take a stab at birdwatching on your trip, or spend your time walking around the plantation. Plus, you can also visit the nearby village for a novel experience.
Address: Karadigodu Post, Siddapura, Kodagu, Karnataka
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