Quick Getaways: Gorai, Ranikhet, Nagarhole National Park

From Mumbai: Gorai, 85 kms, 1 hr 30 mins
Gorai is an ideal place to enjoy a family get-together, picnic with friends or just a day trip with colleagues. Lying on the Peninsula protruding off the north-west of the Salsette Island, the destination is bordered by the villages of Manori and Uttan. The destination has numerous churches that are testimony of the rule of Portuguese during 16th century. Among the three main churches, oldest is the Reis Magos, also known as Three Magi, which is situated close to Vairalla Tank.

The tropical monsoon type climate with mild and low temperature during winters is the ideal time to visit Gorai. The Global Vipassana Pagoda is a one of the biggest attractions of Gorai.

The pagoda is to serve as a monument of peace and harmony. Built out of gratitude to the Buddha, his teaching and the community of monks practicing his teaching. The shape of the pagoda is a copy of the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar. The centre of the Global Vipassana Pagoda contains the world’s largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars. Gorai Beach is also one of the few motorable beaches in India. The beach is good fun for children who would like to indulge in a game of volleyball, cricket or even just run and feel the wind in their hair.

MUST-EAT: Try the fish fry at Raju Koliwada’s at Gorai Beach. The piping hot tea and corn on the beach front are good to snack on too.

From Delhi: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, 364 kms, 5 hrs

Ranikhet is a hill station and cantonment town in Uttarakhand. At an altitude of over 1,869 meters above sea level and within sight of the western peaks of the Himalayas, Ranikhet is literally the Queen’s Meadow. Rich with Pine, Oak, and Deodar forests, Ranikhet is a much sought after holiday spot. The hill station also has the honour of having Asia’s highest 9-hole golf course. A visit to Kalika golf links maintained by the army will transport to an era of the 60s. From Ranikhet, one can trek up to Gagas and Dwarahat.

MUST-VISIT: The orchards at Chaubatia, few kilometres from Ranikhet, are very famous. The area grows extensive range of fruits includes apples, peaches, plums and apricots. Bhalu Dam is a small artificial lake 3 kms from the Chaubatia Garden.

From Bangalore: Nagarhole National Park, 236 kms, 4 hrs

The National Park is spread across Kodagu and Mysore districts of Karnataka. Also considered to be one of the best wildlife parks in the country. The park, which once served as hunting grounds for the Mysore kings, covers an area of 643 sq km and is named after the river Nagar Hole, which means the ‘snake river’ winds through the park.

Apart from the tigers, leopards and wild dogs, one can find elephants and bisons. Jackals, striped hyena, sloth bears, mouse deer, black naped hare, etc. Russell’s viper, vine snake, Indian rock python, common krait and more are some of the common reptile species found in the park. The critically endangered oriental white-backed vulture is a key attraction.

KEEP IN MIND: Entry to the park is free and does not require any permission.

The national park remains open from 6 am - 6 pm.

Safaris don’t take place during monsoon.

HOW TO GET THERE: By Air: The nearest airports are in Bangalore and Mysore. By Rail: The nearest station is in the city of Mysore. By Road: The park is well connected by roads and distances with various cities is as follows: Madikeri (93 km), Mysore (96 km) and Bangalore (236 km).