If you are like us, we are sure that you are always counting down the days to the next weekend. And while there are always a host of activities right within our city itself, the urge to escape the urban chaos is also very real. And thankfully with Uttarakhand, just a few hours away from Delhi, we have plenty of quick escapes that we can plan for literally any weekend of the year.
Also with summer almost here, now is the best time to escape into the hills and make our summer-cation a reality. And if you confused about where to head to in the coming days, fret not because we have you sorted with some of the top places that you can visit in Uttarakhand. The best part? You can visit these places, all through the year and not just during the summer season.
Excited? Well let us start.
Sattal for an Indulgent Weekend
Skip Nainital for the relatively tourist-free town of Sattal. It does not have any religious shrines or colonial monuments, that draws tourists to Nainital (46km/1.30 hours away), but is perfect for walks, charming views, and perfect relaxation. Here you can spend your day fishing, tucking into fresh parathas, and exploring the modest local market.
Where to stay: V Resorts Sattal is located in the Lower Himalayan range and is surrounded by dense forests of oak and pine trees. It is about 56.4 km/1.30 hr from the nearest airport, Pantnagar, and 298 km/7.30 hr from Delhi by road (lake view room & Forest view room at INR 6,500; Pine View Room INR 3900). More info here.
Insider Tip: Sattal is home to more than 250 species of birds. If you are a fan of these avian wonders, planning a holiday to Sattal has to be on top of your list.
Kotabagh for an Offbeat Experience
Located near the Corbett National Park, Kotabagh promises an offbeat experience that is unlike any other. Besides being located on the periphery of the famed Jim Corbett National Park, Kotabagh is also a great base to explore places like Nainital, Bhimtal and Ranikhet.
Established in 1936, Corbett is Indias oldest national park, and is named after hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, who played a vital role in its protection. And while many people come here to catch a glimpse of the famed Bengal Tiger, it is important to not make that your single agenda, as the park has a host of magical experiences just waiting to be discovered. Some other animals that you can spot in the park includes elephants, types of deer including sambar, spotted deer, barking deer and hog deer, wild boars, jackals, and even snakes. The park is also home to some stunning grasslands, where the grass grows taller than people. Its also got a riverine vegetation growing alongside the Ramganga and Kosi rivers that meander through the park. And thick jungles of sal and deciduous trees that fill the air with their faint fragrance, making it an experience that will stay with you long after the trip is over.
Where to stay: A riverside resort housing 4 elegant cottage rooms, V Resorts Kotabagh offers expansive view of the surrounding forest and hills. Here you can go beyond the usual wildlife-themed options through a host of other activities that include bonfire with friends, star-gazing across the clear night sky or a picturesque drive to the hill town of Nainital. You can also enjoy dinner under the stars at the river-bed, have tea at the birding deck and indulge in a scrumptious lunch in the garden area of the resort.
It is about 81.1 km/2 hr from the nearest airport, Pantnagar, and 262 km/6 hr from Delhi by road (Cottage room INR 2898). More info here.
Bhimtal for A Wellness Retreat
A wellness vacation doesnt have to be austere. And it doesnt have to cost a lot either. Head to Bhimtal that offers an idyllic stay for travelers, complete with a host of attractions that will satisfy even the most skeptic of tourists. A perfect destination to connect with local cultures through trekking, yoga and cooking classes, Bhimtal offers you a chance to connect with not just the local community but your inner self as well. Its holidaying at a gentler pace.
Where to stay: Mornings at V Resorts Satvik Bhimtal begin with yoga with misty views of the mountains outside; days wind down with nature trails and incredible dinners. With large, simple but comfy rooms that open out to refreshing views of mountains, this is your chance to find some solace in nature. (Deluxe rooms: INR 2143; Super Deluxe Rooms: INR 2321)
Bhimtal is approx. 307km/6hr50min by road from Delhi.
Book here
Rishikesh For An Adrenaline Rush
Rishikesh, with its pristine natural beauty and host of adventure options, makes for a memorable getaway. From river rafting to flying fox to trekking, theres a plethora of adventure sports to match both your mood and budget. Thats not all. Rishikesh also boasts of the countrys highest free-fall bungee which is located at Mohanchatti. With experts from New Zealand available to monitor the 83 metre jump, youll be lowered all the way down to the river. Dont forget to get your photographs and video {remember, jump head first; its so much more graceful on camera, and, oh, your Dare To Jump certificate to show off to your family and friends
Where to stay: Tucked away in the wilderness of Shivpuri, V Resorts Ganga Camp is spread across ten sections of land amidst lush greenery. With an in-house swimming pool, dining area and arrangements for adventure activities like river rafting, nature trails, bungee jumping and more, the resort is perfect for every kind of traveller. (Tents: INR 3909)
Book here
Mukteshwar For A Quiet Weekend
The peaceful town of Mukteshwar is a stark contrast to the urban culture of cities. If you are looking for a weekend that comprises of some quality time, either alone or with your SO, Mukteshwar has something for everyone. Walk through the amazing nature trails that are made even more incredible with birdsongs that reveal atmospheric hidden temples, scenic waterfalls and sunlit glades perfect for a picnic stop. If that does not spell a perfect vacation, what does right?
Where to stay: Located at an altitude of 7,500 feet, V Resorts Greek Oak is surrounded by valleys, lush pine, deodar & oak trees, villages and panoramic views of the mountains. With 20 well appointed rooms that are ideal for the urban traveller, the resort is an ideal choice for all types of tourists including solo tourists and family vacationers. (Executive rooms: INR 2874, Superior Rooms: INR 3219, Luxury Rooms: INR 3909)
Book here
Haridwar For Spiritual Enlightenment
Varanasi, India – December 13, 2015 : Hindu priests perform an Arti worship ceremony at Ganges River, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Some places have the ability to shape our life and Haridwar is definitely one of them. Many people come here to bid adieu to their loved ones and also find some closure. And while for many that might paint a picture of peace and calm, Haridwar is noisy and chaotic. But if you are all about seeking the calm in the chaos, Haridwar will not disappoint you. Also no trip to Haridwar is complete without attending the aarti at Har-ki-pairi Ghat, when the river comes alive with flickering flames as floating offerings are released onto the Ganges. Highly recommended
Where to stay: V Resorts Chitra Grand is located very close to all the local attractions of the city. Whether you want to go to the Ganga river, or the Mansa Devi temple or even travel to the airport/railway station, this resort is just a few minutes away. (Deluxe rooms: INR 1494; Executive Rooms: INR 2069; Super Deluxe: INR 1764)
Book here