Anshu Sharma and Chirag Goyal, co-founders of Holiday Tribe, said in a joint statement, “Travel witnessed significant growth in the post-Covid era. People want to holiday with family and loved ones and explore newer destinations more than ever. Holiday Tribe was established to meet this growing demand while addressing a key market gap – the lack of accuracy and agility in curating customized solutions for customers. We continue to work towards narrowing this gap with the implementation of robust back-end technology to provide timely solutions, in line with customer preferences. This influx of capital will further our brand building efforts through better integration of latest technology, expanding our supply network and exploring newer destinations. We are excited to embark on this journey with our partners at Powerhouse Ventures and GSF and are optimistic of emerging as a leisure travel partner of choice for avid travellers.”

Kshitij Golwalkar, General Partner, Powerhouse Ventures, said, “Partnering with Holiday Tribe has provided us an opportunity to foray into the dynamic category of travel and hospitality. With sound tech integration and optimal human intervention, the brand is poised to change leisure travel in India. Fuelled by the unwavering grit and vision of the brand’s founders, we look forward to driving operational excellence and customer success for Holiday Tribe.”

Rajesh Sawhney, Founder, at early stage VC firm GSF, added, “From the first time we met Anshu and Chirag, we understood this is a uniquely talented team who are bringing together their deep experience in the travel industry to build India’s leading customised holiday travel operator. Today’s holiday maker has unparalleled access to information on the latest trending experiences both in India and abroad and expects a high degree of personalisation for their travels. Tailormade customer delight on every day of their trip – from flights and hotels to food and entertainment – has become the expectation that Holiday Tribe caters to.”

Madhya Pradesh is, without doubt, a treasure house of Tourism Experiences and an “Offbeat Multispecialty Destination of First Choice.” The accelerated change in the tourism scenario took the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board to commit to the organisation of comprehensive workshops. The extensive workshops showcased the state’s tourism products to bring greater synergy between principal industry stakeholders.

Madhya Pradesh is not only the greenest state in India but also fulfils the status of the ‘Tiger State of India’ with a population of 785 tigers and holds the status of ‘Cheetah State of India.’ It has acquired the reputation of being the cleanest and safest state for tourists visiting India. Astonishingly, Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to witness an unprecedented rise in the arrival of tourists in the year 2023 with 112.1 million tourists as compared to 34.1 million tourists in 2022.

An important highlight of the roadshow was Madhya Pradesh’s dynamic scenario in the tourism sector. The state is a perfect blend of historical, cultural, and natural beauty and an emerging spiritual tourism hub. This is evident from the huge numbers flocking to sites like Mahakal Lok in Ujjain and Raja Ram Temple in Orchha, which will soon be developed into the Raja Ram Lok. Besides, the tallest statue of Adi Shankaracharya in India, towering at 108 feet, is attracting tourists from far and wide.

Minister for Tourism, Culture, Religious Trusts, and Endowments Department Shri. Dharmendra Lodhi spoke about the immense importance of road shows in promoting the grandeur of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism on the national level. With this, the Managing Director of the MP Tourism Board and Principal Secretary in the Department of Tourism and Culture, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, highlighted his satisfaction with the event’s turnout and emphasised the point that this event would help give a new dimension to understand the tourism potential of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat while further strengthening the bond between the two regions.

Madhya Pradesh is soon coming up with a jungle safari, which is set to begin on 1st October 2024. The state is poised to be a leading tourist destination in India, offering unique and enriching experiences based on breathtaking landscapes, giants of history, and vibrant cultural sites.

14 UNESCO Heritage Sites of the State

Madhya Pradesh is currently home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites- Khajuraho temple complex, Bhimbetka Caves, and Sanchi Stupa. The state continues to strive for more such recognitions with formal entries like Gwalior Fort, Khooni Bhandara of Burhanpur, Rock Art Sites of the Chambal Valley, the Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple at Bhojpur, the Gond monuments of Ramnagar in Mandla, the historic ensemble of Dhamnar, Group of Monuments at Mandu, the historic ensemble of Orchha, Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in Narmada Valley, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and Chanderi: Iconic Saree Weaving Clusters of India.

Panchatatva Park and Naad Brahm Upavan. Other facilities include a Visitor Centre and a Water Experience Park.
Hasrat Jasmine, the district development officer of Mehsana, said, “The long-term vision is to establish North Gujarat as a major tourist circuit with Dharoi being the focal point. The peripheral attractions will be pilgrimage places like Ambaji, Hatkeshwar Temple, and Vadnagar. This will also generate good revenue and place this area on the cultural map.”.

The project is likely to be completed within two years as the process of land acquisition is already complete by 80% . The authorities are also eyeing a PPP model for hastening the development process. Tourists have already started getting excited about the new facilities and are comparing it to the Statue of Unity.

Spiritual, adventure, and eco-tourism have combined under the banner of Dharoi Dam to turn this area into a formidable economic force in North Gujarat, opening up new vistas for employment opportunities and regional tourism.

Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said Madhya Pradesh is committed to responsible tourism and is focussing at the importance of minimizing environmental impact and involving local communities. By collaborating with forest departments, local authorities, and tourism operators, Madhya Pradesh aims to sustain tourism activities even during the park closures (July to September) and generate employment opportunities for local residents.

Here’s a glimpse into all 7 awe-inspiring tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh:

Bandhavgarh National Park: Boasts a thriving 104 tiger population

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve spans across districts of Umaria and Katni. Encompassing an area of 1,536.93 square kilometres, the reserve boasts a thriving tiger population of 104 tigers. Bandhavgarh is one of the smallest parks but wildlife-rich and picturesque park having the highest density of tigers in India. There are estimated to be one tiger to every 14 km which offers a thrilling opportunity to spot tigers in their natural environment. A flight from Delhi to Jabalpur takes roughly 2 hours which is followed by a 4 hour drive to the park.

Kanha National Park: A pioneer in conservation initiatives

Kanha Tiger Reserve spanning the districts of Mandla and Balaghat is proudly one of the country’s premier tiger reserves and the state’s largest national park. The reserve encompasses an area of 940 square kilometres and the tiger population is 61. Kanha undoubtedly offers an unforgettable safari experience and spotting the master of camouflage is a thrilling reward estimated with one tiger every 15 km. Interestingly the lush forests of Kanha are believed to have inspired the setting for “The Jungle Book.” Visitors can opt a flight to Jabalpur or reach the park by Balaghat Railway Station or take a bus to Kanha Gate from Balaghat.

Pench Tiger Reserve: More than just a wildlife sanctuary

Pench National Park spans across the districts of Seoni and Chhindwara. Pench National Park is renowned for its thriving tiger population of 61 tigers across an area of 1179.63 square kilometres posing a possibility of tiger tracking every 19 km. Pench Tiger Reserve is a living chapter from Rudyard Kipling’s iconic tale, “The Jungle Book.” The inspiration for the fictional world of Mowgli can be traced directly back to this region.
Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve: Newest reserve at Heart of Incredible India
Madhya Pradesh’s newest tiger reserve aims to conserve tigers and other wildlife within its vast expanse. The 7th protected habitat for big cats in the state is spread across Sagar, Damoh and Narsinghpur districts. Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve is spread across 2339 square kilometres and is estimated to have 15 tigers making it a vital habitat for the endangered species. The Tiger reserve is located approximately 20 kilometers from Bhopal.

Satpura Tiger Reserve: Spot at UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites

The Satpura Tiger Reserve stuns visitors with its exquisite natural beauty. It is aptly nicknamed as “Seven Folds,” derived from the Satpura mountain range.The reserve is estimated to have 40 tigers. The Satpura reserve also boasts ancient rock paintings dating back 10,000 years making it a memorable experience. Satpura’s ecological wealth has earned it a well-deserved spot on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites in the Natural category. Fly into Bhopal or Jabalpur, followed by a scenic road trip from either city to conveniently reach the Satpura Tiger Reserve.

Panna Tiger Reserve: Land of Ken River

Panna Tiger Reserve span 1,598.10 sq km spread across Panna and Chhatarpur districts. The reserve is home to 25 tigers. This reserve offers a glimpse at the dynamic dry deciduous forest. The visuals of Ken River are matchless memory during the safari with a flash of sunshine lends it unparalleled beauty. Reach Khajuraho which is the nearest Airport and the Railway station to enjoy a visit to Panna in between 15 October to 15 June for a lifetime memorable wildlife exploration.

Sanjay-Dubri National Park and Tiger Reserve: Haven for wildlife

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve comprising an Evergreen Sal, Bamboo and mixed forest span an impressive 1,674.5 square kilometers across Sidhi and Shahdol districts is a haven for wildlife. The reserve plays a crucial role in tiger conservation is home to about 5 tigers, 152 species of birds 32 species of mammals, 11 species of reptiles, 03 species of amphibian and many more, 34 species of fresh water fishes. Sanjay National Park which is a part of Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve is the most popular place to visit.

Planning Your Tiger Safari: The best time to visit the tiger reserves is generally between October and June.

Alongside these efforts, officials would also carry out awareness campaigns amongst tourists to sensitize them about waste management and the requirement of environmental sustainability if Sikkim has to be kept green and clean.

1. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh:

Located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh is this pristine valley, an ideal sojourn for nature and culture enthusiasts with lush green rice fields, small rustic villages, and rolling hills—that is Ziro. The land of the Apatani tribe, this valley has been in the limelight since identifying its own facial tattoos and traditional farming, which recently found a place in the lists of UNESCO cultural heritage. One can get familiar with the local culture, attend the Ziro Music Festival, and trek through the green landscapes that offer striking, panoramic views of the valley.

2. Chettinad, Tamil Nadu:

Chettinad, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, holds upon itself a land of absolutely surreal wonders condensed together into architectural and culinary marvels. This land, with its opulent mansions of rich Chettiar merchants, speaks of a glimpse into the enhanced history and enriched cultural heritage. Skilfully designed wooden doors, large inner courtyards, and Athangudi tiles in various colours relate to tales of a glorious past. Chettinad cuisine boasts of legendary aromatic spices and great taste—paradise for any foodie.

3. Gokarna, Karnataka:

This is one small coastal town on the Karnataka coastline, which is known for its raw natural beauty. Though this town is very close to Goa, along the Konkan coast, it is still quite far away from the chaos of Goa. Beautiful beaches with divine landscapes of emerald green forests and pure, clear beaches are simply captivating here. This beach is exactly in the shape of the letter ‘Om’, apt for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation. It is also the land of temples, notably the Mahabaleshwar Temple, a pilgrim centre that sees countless devotees visit every year.

4. Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh:

Mechuka forms one of those areas situated in the far-flung corner of Arunachal Pradesh, which one definitely can say to be very equal to entering a different world. Mechuka means a land of snow-capped peaks, emerald green valleys, serpentine rivers, and fast-flowing streams. It is endowed with charming views that would delight one’s senses, among which are the crystal-clear waters of the Siang River, allowing one to indulge in rafting and adventure fishing activities. This is a village oozing Tibetan-Indian culture through architecture and various traditions. One can also see the spiritual heritage in this place in the 400-year-old Samten Yongcha Monastery.

5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:

In the midst of adventure and rugged beauty, you will find Spiti Valley. A high-altitude desert representing landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture, it has been named as “Little Tibet.” Key Monastery lies at the top of a hill from which one can get panoramas over the valley and also have a peek into monastic life in that area. The hues change with the colours of the waters of the lake and the nearby peaks, creating an illusion of a piece of turquoise set right in the heart of a barren silvery terrain. Then, when it seems that one has seen it all, Spiti greets with mesmerising valleys and ancient hidden villages.

6. Majuli, Assam:

It is the world’s largest luminescent river island in the Brahmaputra River. It serves to carry the great culture and natural heritage. With its vibrant Assamese culture, Majuli boasts of some Vaishnavite monasteries known as Satras, which form the very centre of art, dance, and music. The landscape on this island is provided by lush green areas along paddy fields and water bodies, giving the viewers beautiful scenic views, quite perfect for a pastime of watching birds flying and riding boats. It decorates itself onto the world map with its annual festival, the Raas, conducted with much pomp and show, illustrating the rich culture prevalent here.

These offbeat destinations in India are soaked in varied experiences that are way beyond the beaten track. Each destination, be it the green valleys of Arunachal Pradesh or the tranquil beaches of Karnataka, blends beauty, culture, and adventure in its own perceptive style. Traveling to expose the unknown identity of India, these were some places that would guarantee a journey so unforgettable, diverse, and enchanting.

The Monsoon Tourism Festival is going to present many varieties of activities and events. Water sports of a new genre would be on display to enthral the visitors, showcasing the adventure potential of the islands. An exciting tug-of-war event will be organised to instil community spirit and this will turn out to be an entertainment for both participants and viewers. All these cultural programs will be a representation of the rich cultural heritage of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the form of live music, dance shows, and an immersive experience provided to visitors.

A rain dance arena will provide an activity zone through which the visitors can enjoy the monsoon rains in an active, chirpy atmosphere. To engage all visitors with entertainment, a beach volleyball arena will showcase interesting volleyball matches on the beach.
Stalls will be allotted for Rs. 2500 per day with applicable GST. Interested parties should apply through application forms that will be available from the Directorate of Tourism’s Planning Cell and to be submitted with a security deposit of Rs. 5000 before 9 July 2024. Fuel in the stalls shall be allotted on a lottery system, subject to other criteria prescribed hereinafter that makes the process of allotment fair and transparent for the applicants.

The Monsoon Tourism Festival will then have massive global effects on travellers. It is taken up with the intention to achieve all-year-round tourism so that the Andaman Islands can be projected as a destination to be enjoyed irrespective of the season. This will eventually attract international tourists who seek new tourism experiences and would like to travel to the Andaman Islands during the monsoon season. The lineup of socio-cultural events in the festival is likely to provide international visitors the opportunity to engage with and appreciate the local heritage and people, directly contributing to enriching all parties concerned with social-cultural understanding and exchange. Coupled with the fact that the monsoon season is a high time for tourist inflow, this inflames the local economy, giving an opportunity to provide income and employment to the people inhabiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

1.  Manali 

Nestled on the Beas River, Manali is a rustic township located in Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect riverside destination that is frequented by honeymooners, families, trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Manali offers peace, tranquillity and breathtaking views from the valley. If you are dreaming of soaking your feet in gushing water while enjoying the sunset views, then Manali is the place to be.

Best time to visit: March to June is the peak season for tourists if you wish to escape the heat and move to cooler temperatures. To witness snowfall, December end to January is the best time.

Things to do: Visit Hidimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple.

How to reach

By air: Fly to the Bhuntar airport which is 50 kilometres away from Manali.

By rail: Joginder Nagar Railway Station is approximately 160 kilometres away from Manali that can be reached via Pathankot.

By road: Manali is well connected by road and can be reached easily via Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Shimla, Haridwar, Dharamshala and Chamba.

2. Tirthan Valley

Just 90 kilometres southeast of Manali, lies another Himachal’s treasure – Tirthan Valley. This destination, named after the pristine Tirthan River that flows through the valley, sits at an average elevation of 2,300 metres. With snow-capped peaks and Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, within walking distance, it is a paradise for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Best time to visit:  Between March and June.

Things to do: Visit local sights such as Chehni Kothi, Jalori Pass and Serolsar Lake, spot the rare bird species of western tragopan and cheer pheasant.

How to reach

By air: Bhuntar is the closest airport and is only two hours away from Tirthan Valley.

By rail: Railheads are quite far from Tirthan however, you can hop on to the famous toy train from Kalka to Shimla or take the narrow-gauge train to Joginder Nagar.

By road: Drive through NH-21 on the Manali highway via Chandigarh to reach Tirthan Valley.

3. Odi Thach 

Located in Himachal Pradesh on the banks of Parvati River, Odi Thach is a popular destination amongst trekkers. It is the fourth camp location in the Pin Parvati Pass Trek that ends at the Pin Basecamp in Spiti. The trekking route begins from the quaint village of Manikaran, crossing beautiful terrains covered with flowers and waterfalls leading up to the rocky terrains as one goes higher up. Imagine spending days doing nothing but just admiring the picturesque meadow that passes through the natural rock bridge – Pandu Bridge situated on Parvati River, breathtaking, isn’t it?

Best time to visit: In the months of July and August.

Things to do: Trek up to the Pin Valley Basecamp, visit Kungri Monastery, spot avian diversity such as goldfinches, Himalayan griffons, yellow-headed wagtails, and yellow-billed chough at the Pin Valley National Park.

How to reach

By air: Fly to the Bhuntar airport which is 50 km away from Manali.

By rail: Joginder Nagar Railway Station  is approximately 160 km away from Manali that can be reached via Pathankot.

By road: Manali is well connected by road and can be reached via Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Shimla, Haridwar, Dharamshala and Chamba.

4. Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett, India’s first national park, is located on the bank of the Ramganga River in Uttarakhand. Travellers visit this park hoping to spot a tiger or two during the jeep safari. The safari takes you inside the dense forest where you can witness wild animals in their natural habitat and enjoy the lush green forests along with streams, rivers and Corbett waterfall.

Best time to visit: October till March.

Things to do: Go for a morning or evening Jeep Safari, experience camping, do river rafting, try angling, attend yoga and meditation workshops.

How to reach

By air: Fly to the Patanagar airport which is 70 kilometres away from Jim Corbett National Park.

By rail:  Ramnagar Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

By road: Drive down from Delhi, Haridwar, Nainital or Ramnagar to reach Jim Corbett National Park. It is a six hour drive from Delhi.

5. Majuli Island 

Majuli Island in Assam is the world’s largest river island, but it is fast disappearing. But, before it fades away in the vastness of Brahmaputra River, plan a trip to see this natural wonder, which is famous for its flora and fauna and culture of mask and pottery making. And also, don’t miss the sunset!

Best time to visit: In the winter season starting from November till February.

Things to do: Sneak peek at the tribal culture, visit centres of performing arts and monasteries at Vaishnava Satras, attend festivals of Raas Mahotsav, Paal Naam and Ali-Aye-Ligang.

How to reach:

The only way to reach the island is by hopping on a ferry from Jorhat.

By air: Fly to the Rowriah Airport which is 8 Kilometres away from the main city of Jorhat.

By rail: Two major railway stations of Jorhat are Mariani Junction and Jorhat Town that are well connected to other parts of the country.

By road: Hire a taxi to reach Jorhat from Guwahati.

6. Kabini

Home to tigers, elephants, deer, black panthers and jaguars, Kabini is an exciting destination in Karnataka for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and those who are seeking peace. Located on the banks of Kabini River, a traditional coracle boat ride is a must do once you are done exploring the wildlife and soaking in the greenery.

Best time to visit: October to June is the best time to be in Kabini.

Things to do: Take the jungle jeep safari in the morning, spend the day doing river safari in the backwaters, explore the diverse flora and fauna.

How to reach:

By air: Fly to the Mysuru airport which is 60 kilometres away from Kabini forest.

By rail: Mysuru Junction is the nearest railhead to Kabini.

By road: Taxis are available from Mysuru and other parts of Karnataka to reach Kabini easily.

7. Darjeeling 

British charm, pristine beauty, vibrant green hills and majestic views of the Himalayas, Darjeeling has it all! This tea garden city is bordered by the Teesta River. Rafting down the Teesta, mesmerising views of the lush forests, spotting rare birds such as the Eurasian cuckoo, oriental cuckoo, common kestrel and yellow-bellied fantail among many others will give you memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Best time to visit: Between March to May and October to December are the best months to get clear views of Kanchenjunga Mountain peak.

Things to do: Board the toy train, hike up to the Sandakphu range, experience water rafting and watch the sunrise from Tiger Hill.

How to reach:

By air: Bagdogra is the closest airport to Darjeeling.

By rail: Darjeeling Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

By road: Darjeeling is well connected by road and can be reached via Siliguri.

8. Coorg

River Barapole adds charm to the hilly district of Coorg in Karnataka. Also called Kodagu, Coorg is a famous tourist destination that offers pleasant weather throughout the year. You can easily spend days here trekking, fishing, trying waterfall rappelling, quad biking and other fun activities.

Best time to visit: October to March are the best months to be in Coorg.

Things to do: Learn about the coffee making process at the various coffee plantations, go up in the air on Microlight flying, bathe elephants at Dubare elephant camp.

How to reach: 

By air: Fly to the Mangalore or Mysore Airport to reach Coorg.

By rail: Mysore Railway Station is the nearest railhead to reach Coorg.

By road: Coorg is well connected to the nearby cities of Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore.

9. Papikondalu 

Papikondalu in Andhra Pradesh is a scenic mountain range bounded by India’s second largest river. Its beauty, which is often compared to Kashmir, can be admired on day long luxury cruises that stop at several other local attractions, such as Gandi Pochamma Temple and Veereswara Swamy Temple.

Best time to visit: October to January is the best time to visit Papikondalu.

Things to do: Visit Perantapalli village of Khammam district and Ashram of Ramakrishna Muni Vatika.

How to reach: 

By air: Rajahmundry Airport is well connected to all major cities of India and is the closest to reach Papikondalu.

By rail: Rajahmundry Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

By road: Taxis are easily available from Rajahmundry.

10. Dhankar 

Dhankar village, perched at 3,894 metres above sea level in Spiti Valley, is unlike any other lush green tourist hotspots in Himachal. Its mountains are brown and barren. But don’t be mistaken! They only add to its charm while Spiti River weaves its way through them. Trek alongside this river destination for spectacular views of Manirang Peak which is the highest peak of Himachal Pradesh..

Best time to visit: Between May to October.

Things to do: Visit Dhankar Lake and Dhankar Monastery, watch the sunset as it occurs behind Himalayan peaks.

How to reach:

By air: Fly to the Bhuntar Airport.

By rail: Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Manali that is 400 kilometres away from the Dhankar Lake.

By road: Manali is well connected by road from Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Shimla, Haridwar, Dharamshala and Chamba. From Manali, take a cab to reach Tabo or Kaza town and then you can trek to Dhankar.

11. Dandeli

If you are looking for an adventurous weekend getaway from Bengaluru, then visit Dandeli on the banks of river Kali in Karnataka. Offering a number of activities, such as jungle safari, rafting, kayaking and coracle rides, you can cap it off with a bonfire on the riverside.

Best time to visit: Dandeli can be visited all year round however, November to February are the best months for river rafting.

Things to do: Visit Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, admire the stunning Sathodi and Magod Waterfalls.

How to reach:

By air: Fly to the Belgaum Airport which is well connected to Mumbai, Bangalore and Goa.

By rail: Alnavar Railway Station is the nearest railhead which is 35 kilometres away from Dandeli.

By road: Taxis can be hired from Bangalore, Mumbai, Goa, Belgaum, Karwar, Dharwad and Hubli to reach Dandeli.

12. Kolad

Kolad is an offbeat destination in Maharashtra that should be visited for the water sports it offers such as river rafting, banana boat ride, jet-ski, water rappelling and river crossing. Experience a slow-paced life living close to nature in eco-friendly camps that can be reached crossing Kundalika River.

Best time to visit: Kolad can be visited all year round, however, June to February are the best months for river rafting.

Things to do: Visit Tamhini Ghat, Kuda Caves, Ghosala Fort and Devkund Waterfall.

How to reach:

By air: Nanded Airport is the nearest airport to Kolad.

By rail: Lonavla Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

By road: Mumbai is 120 kilometres away and the closest mahor city that connects to Kolad.

13. Chadar 

Chadar Trek is one of the toughest treks in India that takes place on the surface of the frozen Zanskar River. Trekking on the whirly passages of this frozen river makes it a thrilling experience for adventure seekers as they learn to survive in harsh terrains at low temperatures.

Best time to visit: Chadar should be visited in January and February.

Things to do: Admire snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls during the trek.

How to reach:

By air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is 50 kilometres away from Chadar.

By rail: Tawi Railway Station is the nearest railhead which is 670 kilometres away from Chadar.

By road: Leh is the nearest city that can be reached easily by taxi.

14. Bheemeshwari

Located 100 kilometres away from Bangalore, you can enjoy fishing, biking, coracle rides and kayaking in Bheemeshwari. This weekend getaway spot in Karnataka is frequented by families that spend days in solitude sitting on the banks of Cauvery River enjoying the view while they sip on piping hot filter coffee.

Best time to visit: Between August and February.

Things to do: Take boat rides, hike up to the beautiful valleys, spot pelicans and painted storks.

How to reach:

By air: Fly to the Bengaluru Airport which is 145 km away from Bheemeshwari.

By rail: Bengaluru Railway Station is the nearest railhead located 101 km away.

By road: Taxis are easily available from Bangalore to reach Bheemeshwari.

15. Varanasi 

Varanasi, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, is famous for its temples, religious rituals and historical ghats that touch the sacred river Ganga. But that’s not all that attracts travellers to this holy city. Adventure enthusiasts too make a pilgrimage but of a different kind. They prefer to indulge in water sports, such as speed boat, para motor, bumpy ride, desert bike, jet-ski, parasailing and banana boat ride.

Best time to visit: Between October to March.

Things to do: Attend evening aarti, try the famous paan at Krishna Paan Bhandar, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Assi Ghat.

How to reach:

By air: Fly to the Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport in Babatpur which is 22 kilometres away from Varanasi. Direct flights to Varanasi are available from Delhi, Agra, Khajurao, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, Bhuvaneshwar and Kathmandu.

By rail: Varanasi Cantt and Mughal Sarai Railway Station are linked with all major cities of India.

By road: Varanasi is well connected by road with taxis easily available from major cities in India.