TRAVEL SPECIAL....QUICK GETAWAY

QUICK GETAWAY

FROM MUMBAI: KOLAD, 150 KMS, 3 HRS, 27 DEGREES
    Take advantage of the monsoons before they end and drive down to Kolad, a thriving tiny village in the Roha region on the outskirts of Mumbai. Dressed in grasslands with grazing cows and goats and dotted with small villages around, the area is sheer natural beauty. Situated at the backdrop of the majestic Sahyadris, Kolad’s magnificent valleys are host to the Kundalika River.
    Kundalika’s 12-kilometre stretch of exciting rapids provide two hours of white water rafting fun with the guidance of skilled instructors. With life jackets buckled in, enjoy the end of the trip when guests are encouraged to jump into the 20 feet deep river and get carried forward by the lazy current.
    Apart from river rafting, other activities like kayaking, jungle camping, and river crossing can be enjoyed. This scenic locale with the fascinating and amazing spectacle of nature is a recommended picnic spot.
    Numerous farm houses and nature camps are situated near the river. Stay in an all-weather tent and spend the evening cycling along the slopes or simply enjoy the view with a cup of tea and a book.
Places to stay: Nature Trails, Adventure Kolad and Empower Activity Camp. By road: Take the NH 17, and drive through Panvel-Pen-Kolad-Mangaon-Srivardhan/Harihareshwar before reaching Diveagar. By rail: Nearest railhead is at Khed.
FROM DELHI: KULLU, 499 KMS, 8 HRS 30 MINUTES, 20 DEGREES
    Amidst the loftiness of the majestic Himalayas, and the serene ambience of the unpolluted River Beas is Kullu in the state of Himachal Pradesh, also known as the ‘Valley of Gods’. Formerly renowned as Kulanthpitha, translating to ‘the ending point of inhabitable world’, this fabulous valley has its mention in epics like Ramayana, Mahabarata and Vishnu Purana. Situated in the mountains, Kullu was not an easily accessible place earlier. This helped to preserve its unspoiled charm and centuries-old tradition.
    The awe-inspiring landscapes, friendly people with varied culture and traditions makes Kullu a favourite picnic spot.
    A cluster of beautiful valleys, Kullu is an enjoyable tourist spot where nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts can indulge in various activities.
    Challenging trekking, river rafting and mountaineering are activities you can enjoy here.
    Visit Raghunath Temple, Jagannathi Devi Temple (Bekhli Temple), Chandrakhani Pass, The Great Himalayan National Park and Pandoh Dam while spending the weekend in the cool mountains of Kullu.
By road: Drive from NH 2 to NH 21. By rail: Jogindernagar is the nearest railhead.
FROM BANGALORE: KOZHIKODE, 359 KMS, 7 HRS, 27 DEGREES
    Kozhikode or Calicut as it is popularly known, is a land of pristine beaches, aromatic spice gardens, picturesque countryside and warm people. It was way back in 1948 that the coastal town of Kozhikode rose to fame when Vasco Da Gama first set foot on its shores. Its verdant hills, gurgling streams, historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, quaint villages and busy bazaars lure tourists year after year.
    A sea town in Kerala with a busy port and thriving trading centre, some of the best places to get a glimpse into its history and natural beauty are the Kappad Beach and Beypore Fort. A visit to the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a treat for bird watchers with over a 100 species of birds. For nature lovers, the Thusharagiri waterfall, 50 km from Kozhikode is an ideal place to for a picnic. Adventure buffs can also trek this region amid spice plantations and dense evergreen forests.
By Road: From Mysore Rd to NH 17. By Rail: Nearest railhead is Kozhikkode.

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