Nainital or Jog Falls: Plan your next long weekend getaway

From exploring the natural habitat to sinking in the romance of the good old Nainital, here is a look at the top picks:

Morachi Chincholi, Maharashtra
Would you like to see dancing peacocks admist tall tamarind trees? Morachi Chincholi is situated near Ahmednagar-Pune Highway. LEGEND HAS IT: During the time of Peshwa dynasty a lot of tamarind trees were planted which attracted peacocks to this tiny village. It is now said that there are around 2,500 peacocks in this region.


PLAN IT RIGHT: The best time to see peacocks is in the morning between 6 to 8 and in the evening between 5 to 7. Tourists can also relish Maharashtra’s specialties like Zunka and Bhakri and amazing pakodas.
Between the months of June and December the village gets maximum tourists. Do take a ride on a tractor/bullock cart to a nearby farm and experience the irrigation and farming life.

Jog Falls , Karnataka

Also known as the Gerosoppa Falls, is situated on the borders of Shimoga and North Kanara, 100 Kms from Shimoga city in Karnataka. The waterfall is created by the Sharavathi River falling from a height of 830 ft. The four streams are known as Raja, Roarer, Rocket and Rani. Tourists often enjoy the splendid view of the Linganamakki Dam, which is 1,819 ft above sea level built across the river Sharavathi. This dam is the main feeder reservoir of the Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric project in Shimoga.

MUST-DO: During the rainy season, June to October, the falls are voluminous and tourists can often see rainbows now and then. Adventure junkies take a walk at the bottom of the gorge when the gates of the Linganmakki Dam are closed. Also a paradise for bird watchers.



Nainital, Uttarakhand

Known for its tranquil natural beauty, towering peaks of the Kumaon Hills and the lake Nainital is a must-visit for tourists seeking old-world charm. Nainital is divided in two parts, Tallital and Mallital, with the lake separating them. Tallital is the southern side of the lake, while Mallital consists of the northern upper reaches.

The town was destroyed during the Landslide of 1880, and later rebuilt by the British. It is renowned for its lake, birds-eye views, and prestigious educational institutions.



MUST-VISIT: Situated 22 km from the city centre, Bhimtal Lake is named after the second Pandava brother Bhima in the Mahabharata who was known for his prodigious strength. œ Sattal also known as Seven Lakes, is a cluster of small interconnected lakes in the midst of an old oak forest. œ Hanumangarhi, a temple where Lord Hanuman is depicted tearing open his chest to reveal Rama and Sita in his heart.

Places to stay: One of the most prestigious heritage hotel in Nainital — The Naini Retreat is a palatial building that not only exudes an old-world charm but also imbibes imaginable marks of modern luxury. Tasteful bedrooms, an intimate dining room overlooking the valley, lush landscapes, a huge conference hall and a view of the Himalayas contribute to the creation of a fascinating experience. Just a kilometre from the mall, The Naini Retreat is situated on the picturesque Ayarpatta Slopes providing a breathtaking view of the Naini Lake at an altitude of 1,995 meters.