Bird-watching in Gujarat or skiing in Himachal Pradesh: What's your pick for a quick getaway?

FROM MUMBAI: DHORDO, GUJARAT

Visiting Rann during the Rann Utsav and feel like indulging yourself with a luxury tent stay? Then head to Dhordo, this grand tent city with over 350 Luxury Tents in Dhordo Village is situated about 85 kms from Bhuj City. Dhordo Village is renowned for its White desert, bird watching and craft villages. Dhordo is where you can enjoy a desert getaway and make the most of its popular cultural, traditional fests and shopping. You can buy gifts for your friends and pick from authentic handicraft items, Bandini sarees, traditional ornaments. Take some time out later to visit Little Rann Of Kutch, which is famous for Wild Ass.

NOTE: Kutch is perhaps the only place in Gujarat where you can enjoy all touristy moments at one place.



ENJOY: Participate in cultural activities in Dhordo.

FROM DELHI: KUFRI, HIMACHAL PRADESH

If you’ve never gone skiing, then this is the right time. Good news is that, skiing lessons are available right here in Himachal Pradesh. Head to Kufri, a beautiful small hill station in Shimla of Himachal Pradesh. Many honeymooners like to visit Kufri and find a variety of outdoor activities to indulge in. Locals will tell you that the name Kufri is derived from the word ‘Kufr’ meaning a Lake in the local language.

Animals spotted here are rare too and you can catch a glimpse in the Himalayan Wild Life Zoo, which also hosts Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. During winters in Kufri, a meandering path through the potato plantations turns into a popular ski track.

NOTE: You must try your hands at skiing and of course, do not forget to don Himachali local attire and take pictures. It’s great fun.



CLICK IT: Don traditional Himachali attire and capture it!

FROM BANGALORE: CHAMUNDI HILLS, KARNATAKA

Taking to a picturesque view along with a chance to say your prayers can be a good combination this season. We suggest you head to Chamundi Hills, which is over 13 kms from Mysore in Karnataka. The popularity of Chamundi Hills comes from its significance from ancient times. Atop the hills is the famous Sri Chamundeshwari Temple. ‘Chamundi’ or ‘Durga’ is the fierce form of ‘Shakti’. She is the slayer of demons, ‘Chanda’ and ‘Munda’ and also ‘Mahishasura’, the buffalo-headed monster

It is said that she is tutelary deity of the Mysore Maharajas and the presiding deity of Mysore. While going up the hills, a bird’s eye view of Mysore is seen and several prominent places can be spotted. It offers a spectacular scene when the Palace and its surroundings are illuminated during festivals and other occasions.

The road to the temple is motorable and you can drive your car right near the temple premises. Bus services by Karnataka Tourism are also a favoured way to this locale.

NOTE: Visit during abhishekham or aarti time. It’s just mesmerising!



BLESSINGS: Say your prayers at Chamundi Hills.