Weekend Escapes: Explore These Hidden Gems Near Major Indian Cities Weekend Escapes: Explore These Hidden Gems Near Major Indian Cities Offbeat Here’s a guide to some lesser-known destinations near prominent Indian cities that are ideal for a quick, rejuvenating break. Priyanshu Tripathi <html> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Weekend Escapes: Explore These Hidden Gems Near Major Indian Cities</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With an upcoming long weekend on the horizon, it's the perfect time to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in nature's lap. Whether you're craving the tranquility of the mountains, the charm of heritage towns, or the allure of beaches, there's a perfect getaway waiting for you just a short drive from some of India&rsquo;s major cities. Here&rsquo;s a guide to some lesser-known destinations near prominent Indian cities that are ideal for a quick, rejuvenating break.</p> <h4 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Coorg: The Scotland of India from Bangalore</strong></h4> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Distance from Bangalore:</strong> 265 km</li> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Travel Time:</strong> 5-6 hours</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">Known for its coffee plantations, misty landscapes, and lush greenery, Coorg (Kodagu) is a paradise for nature lovers. Spend your weekend exploring the Abbey Falls, taking a coffee plantation tour, or trekking up to Raja&rsquo;s Seat for panoramic views of the valley. Don&rsquo;t miss the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe, one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. Coorg&rsquo;s cool climate and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for a refreshing weekend break.</p> <h4 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Kasauli: A Colonial Charm Near Chandigarh</strong></h4> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Distance from Chandigarh:</strong> 60 km</li> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Travel Time:</strong> 2 hours</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">Perched in the Shivalik Range, Kasauli is a small hill station that exudes old-world charm. Its British colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and beautiful churches make it a charming retreat. Visit the Monkey Point for stunning views, take a leisurely stroll on the Gilbert Trail, and don&rsquo;t miss a visit to the Kasauli Brewery, one of the oldest in India. With its pleasant weather and peaceful surroundings, Kasauli is a great destination for a quick getaway from Chandigarh.</p> <h4 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Mahabalipuram: A Heritage Getaway from Chennai</strong></h4> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Distance from Chennai:</strong> 60 km</li> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Travel Time:</strong> 1.5-2 hours</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you&rsquo;re in Chennai and looking for a blend of history, architecture, and the sea, Mahabalipuram is the place to be. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples and rock-cut caves, this coastal town is steeped in history. Explore the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas, and the intricately carved Krishna&rsquo;s Butterball. After a day of sightseeing, relax on the tranquil Mahabalipuram Beach, where you can watch the waves crash against the ancient structures.</p> <h4 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Panchgani: A Scenic Escape from Mumbai</strong></h4> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Distance from Mumbai:</strong> 250 km</li> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Travel Time:</strong> 5 hours</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range, Panchgani is a hill station that offers spectacular views of the valleys and mountains. Known for its strawberry farms, this charming town is perfect for a relaxing weekend. Visit Table Land, a vast volcanic plateau, for panoramic views, or take a leisurely walk through the strawberry farms and enjoy the fresh produce. The nearby Parsi Point offers breathtaking views of the Krishna Valley. Panchgani&rsquo;s cool climate and serene atmosphere make it a perfect escape from the city&rsquo;s chaos.</p> <h4 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Ranthambore: A Wildlife Adventure from Jaipur</strong></h4> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Distance from Jaipur:</strong> 180 km</li> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Travel Time:</strong> 3-4 hours</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">For those who love wildlife, a trip to Ranthambore National Park is a must. Known for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore offers an exciting opportunity to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Besides tigers, the park is home to a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, deer, and a rich birdlife. The Ranthambore Fort, located within the park, offers a glimpse into the region&rsquo;s history. A weekend spent here is a thrilling experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.</p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Final Thoughts</strong></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">These hidden gems near prominent Indian cities offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making them ideal destinations for the upcoming long weekend. Whether you&rsquo;re looking to explore historical sites, embark on a wildlife adventure, or simply relax in nature, these destinations promise a memorable escape. So, pack your bags, plan your train route with Trainman, and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of these lesser-known weekend getaways.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As always, we have something to offer for your train journeys. You can get a discount of up to INR200 on your FIRST train ticket booking. Use code - FREEDOM500, and get TM cash worth INR500 to avail the offer.&nbsp;</p> </html>

Weekend Escapes: Explore These Hidden Gems Near Major Indian Cities

  •  2115 views · 
  • Aug. 21, 2024

Weekend Escapes: Explore These Hidden Gems Near Major Indian Cities

With an upcoming long weekend on the horizon, it's the perfect time to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in nature's lap. Whether you're craving the tranquility of the mountains, the charm of heritage towns, or the allure of beaches, there's a perfect getaway waiting for you just a short drive from some of India’s major cities. Here’s a guide to some lesser-known destinations near prominent Indian cities that are ideal for a quick, rejuvenating break.

Coorg: The Scotland of India from Bangalore

  • Distance from Bangalore: 265 km
  • Travel Time: 5-6 hours

Known for its coffee plantations, misty landscapes, and lush greenery, Coorg (Kodagu) is a paradise for nature lovers. Spend your weekend exploring the Abbey Falls, taking a coffee plantation tour, or trekking up to Raja’s Seat for panoramic views of the valley. Don’t miss the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe, one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. Coorg’s cool climate and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for a refreshing weekend break.

Kasauli: A Colonial Charm Near Chandigarh

  • Distance from Chandigarh: 60 km
  • Travel Time: 2 hours

Perched in the Shivalik Range, Kasauli is a small hill station that exudes old-world charm. Its British colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and beautiful churches make it a charming retreat. Visit the Monkey Point for stunning views, take a leisurely stroll on the Gilbert Trail, and don’t miss a visit to the Kasauli Brewery, one of the oldest in India. With its pleasant weather and peaceful surroundings, Kasauli is a great destination for a quick getaway from Chandigarh.

Mahabalipuram: A Heritage Getaway from Chennai

  • Distance from Chennai: 60 km
  • Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours

If you’re in Chennai and looking for a blend of history, architecture, and the sea, Mahabalipuram is the place to be. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples and rock-cut caves, this coastal town is steeped in history. Explore the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas, and the intricately carved Krishna’s Butterball. After a day of sightseeing, relax on the tranquil Mahabalipuram Beach, where you can watch the waves crash against the ancient structures.

Panchgani: A Scenic Escape from Mumbai

  • Distance from Mumbai: 250 km
  • Travel Time: 5 hours

Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range, Panchgani is a hill station that offers spectacular views of the valleys and mountains. Known for its strawberry farms, this charming town is perfect for a relaxing weekend. Visit Table Land, a vast volcanic plateau, for panoramic views, or take a leisurely walk through the strawberry farms and enjoy the fresh produce. The nearby Parsi Point offers breathtaking views of the Krishna Valley. Panchgani’s cool climate and serene atmosphere make it a perfect escape from the city’s chaos.

Ranthambore: A Wildlife Adventure from Jaipur

  • Distance from Jaipur: 180 km
  • Travel Time: 3-4 hours

For those who love wildlife, a trip to Ranthambore National Park is a must. Known for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore offers an exciting opportunity to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Besides tigers, the park is home to a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, deer, and a rich birdlife. The Ranthambore Fort, located within the park, offers a glimpse into the region’s history. A weekend spent here is a thrilling experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Final Thoughts

These hidden gems near prominent Indian cities offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making them ideal destinations for the upcoming long weekend. Whether you’re looking to explore historical sites, embark on a wildlife adventure, or simply relax in nature, these destinations promise a memorable escape. So, pack your bags, plan your train route with Trainman, and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of these lesser-known weekend getaways.

As always, we have something to offer for your train journeys. You can get a discount of up to INR200 on your FIRST train ticket booking. Use code - FREEDOM500, and get TM cash worth INR500 to avail the offer. 






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