Break the monotony and plan these quick getaways for some relief

FROM MUMBAI: AMBOLI
Distance from Mumbai: 490km

Situated on the southern ranges of the Sahyadris at a height of 2,265 ft, this sylvan precinct is the last mountain resort along the western coast before the Sahyadris give way to beaches. With gently rolling knolls and dense vegetation, Amboli is mesmerising in the rains. In summers, the slopes with their multi-hued flora are a popular trekking destination with the forts of Manohargad and Mansantoshgad located in proximity.

The first showers transform this busy tourist spot into a quiet, green monsoon retreat covered with mist and fog. Go for a stroll in the early morning. The aroma of fresh, wet earth, the cool monsoon breeze, a panoramic view of the lush Konkan plains and the glistening sea are sure to leave your mind and body rejuvenated. Walk to the bank of river Hiranyakeshi and watch the waters gush over rocks and pebbles. A few metres away are the Nangardas Falls, frothy and gushing in their monsoon glory.

FROM DELHI: KINNAUR
Distance from Delhi: 493km


Kinnaur is one of the most pristine, and untouched areas of India. (Image: BCCL)

Kinnaur is known for its serenity and beauty of the lush green and rocky mountainscape having Satluj, Baspa and Spiti rivers snaking through it. Apart from places of religious relevance, Kinnaur also has a large scope in adventure sports like trekking and skiing. There are about nine known routes for trekking and some which are five days or six-day trips. Chitkul in Kinnaur is called the ‘Last Village of India’. It is on the Indo-Tibetan border. The drive to Chitkul takes just two hours from Sangla, but the views on the way take your breath away.

FROM BENGALURU: BADAMI
Distance from Bengaluru: 510km



Badami showcases the superior architectural works of the Chalukya Empire. (Image: BCCL)

Recognised for its magnificent rock-cut cave temples and red sandstone cliffs, Badami showcases the superior architectural works of the Chalukya Empire. Turning back the pages of Archeological Survey of India, the rock-cut Badami Cave Temples were carven mostly between the 6th and 8th centuries. There are four cave temples that represent the profane nature of the emperors then, with lenience and piousness following that inclines towards Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. While Cave-1 is dedicated to Shiva, Caves-2 and 3 are dedicated to Vishnu. On the other hand, Cave-4 displays reliefs of Jain Tirthankaras. Another major attraction is the Badami Fort that lies east of the Bhuthnatha temple, atop a cliff right opposite the Badami cave temples.