Places to explore during the weekends

ET-Travel suggests you take a casual day off at work to make the most of an extended weekend in coming months.
UPCOMING HOLIDAYS IN DEC 2014 & JAN 2015

1. Thursday, December 25, 2014- Christmas 2. Thursday, January 1, 2015- New Year

Here’s where you can head to...

FROM MUMBAI: PANHALA, MAHARASHTRA

A lesser-known fact is that the history of Panhala is also the history of the Marathas. Panhala is 19 kms from Kolhapur and has innumerable places of interest, each with its own share of lineage attached. For instance, Sajja Kothi was built in 1008 AD documents the story of how Shivaji Maharaj escaped from the jaws of death. Sajja Kothi literally translates to the ‘Punishment Cell’. The place is also associated with Sambaji who was jailed by his own father for his criminal delinquent activities. The Sajja Kothi is based right in the middle of lush greenery and one can catch sight of the magnificent Warana Valley. In addition to history, Panhala at an altitude of 977 m offers some inspiring scenery and a soothing climate.

MUST TRY: Hike to Fort Panhala with friends and family. Considered as one of the largest forts in the Deccan, this fort is built on the Sahyadris, rising more than 400 m (1,312 ft) above its surrounding plain. The numerous underground tunnels underneath the fort make for an exciting holiday trek.



FROM DELHI: RUDRAPRAYAG, UTTARAKHAND

Rudraprayag is a town situated in Uttarakhand. Rudraprayag is one of the Panch Prayag (five confluence) of Alaknanda River, the point of confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini. Post the floods, last year the town’s layout was significantly altered.

MUST-DO: Do camp at the confluence of the rivers to enjoy a scenic view of the mountains.

PLACES OF INTEREST: Rudranath Temple is named after Lord Shiva and is situated at the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini. According to mythology, Narada Muni worshiped Lord Shiva here to learn music from him. The god then taught him music in his form of Rudra (Lord of Music).

Basukedar is a small village reputedly where Shiva lived before coming to Kedarnath. Visit the local Shiva temple. Architecture and idols seems to be centuries old. A good place for meditation and yoga.

FROM BANGALORE: RAMANAGARA, KARNATAKA

Ramanagara is famous for its sericulture, and is nicknamed Silk City. Known as the largest market for silk cocoons in Asia. Ramanagar has some of the world’s oldest granite outcrops. The hill Ramadevarabetta, along with Savandurga was one of the shooting locations for David Lean’s A Passage to India and Sholay.

MUST-DO: Kanva Reservoir is located 10 kilometres from Ramanagara formed by the waters of River Kanva. Climbing enthusiasts from across the country, visit this quaint town for bouldering, rappelling and strenuous climbing on the rocky outcrops of the hills.

MUST-SPOT: Ramanagara is also home of many rare birds like Yellow-throated bulbul, Long-billed and Egyptian vulture. Most of the vultures habitat can be also seen around the mountain. Do visit the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary (RVS), it will be treat for you and your family.