14 Places to Escape from Holi Madness
We all have our own special ways to celebrate festivals. While many of us like to celebrate the Holi festival in all its vigor, there are some who’d like to escape from this madness. Also, post COVID many of us will prefer to avoid the Holi crowds and go to some peaceful place with family for a relaxing time. Here we have curated a list of 14 beautiful offbeat destinations along with the stay options that will help you choose and plan you trip during Holi weekend.
#1. Valiyaparamba – Kasargod, Kerala
Valiyaparamba is an island village that lies in the Arabian sea under a canopy of coconut trees. With a beautiful white unexplored beach on one side and gorgeous wide expanse of backwaters on the other, it is one of the best hangouts in North Kerala. It is located about 60 km from Kasaragod. Nearest airport is Mangalore around 108 kms away.
Stay at Song of the Sea Homestay, a 150 yr old traditional beach house located on this secluded island. Wake up to a mesmerizing sunrise, kayak to the nearby mangrove island, walk along the beach, listen to music by the river, watch the sunset, enjoy bonfire and gorge on the homemade food.
Tariff: 3500/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#2. Sakleshpur – Karnataka
Heaven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, Sakleshpur is a picturesque hill town of Karnataka. With Bisle Reserve Forest in its vicinity, it is listed as one of the 18 most diverse spots in the world in terms of flora and fauna. The 56 km railway track from Sakleshpur to the Subramanya Road Station is perfect for trekking & camping. There are 58 tunnels, 109 bridges, and about 25 waterfalls on this trek. There are numerous mystic temples and ancient forts in Sakleshpur that make it a perfect destination for art and architecture lovers as well. It is 225 km from Bangalore. The nearest airport is Mangalore (130 km) and the nearest railway station is Hassan (42 kms).
Stay at the The Coffee Manor Homestay. This tastefully done independent villa is surrounded by lush green coffee and spice plantations and is just 3 hrs drive from Bangalore. Go for jeep safari or take a walking tour of the estate; play badminton or relax in the pool; enjoy music, campfire or try your hand at barbecue. It has all that can make your holiday memorable.
Tariff: 5000/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
#3. Narel – Karjat – Maharashtra
It is one of the most picturesque destinations near Mumbai and Pune located at the foothills of Matheran, behind the Ulhas River. Neral is a small town in Karjat tehsil Maharashtra. There are many waterfalls and nature trails to explore around. The nearest airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai is 76 Km.
Stay at Ulhas Farmstay, a beautiful farmstead located in the midst of a mango grove by the side of the Ulhas river and overlooks the Matheran mountain. Quiet, lush and peaceful, it is perfect to relax in the lap of nature and enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Enjoy the company of butterflies and birds like kingfisher and cormorant. If you’re lucky, you may even sight a peacock.
Tariff: 5000/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#4. Loktak – Manipur
If you want to explore something unique, visit Loktak in Manipur, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. It is famous for Phumdis – a series of floating islands. The lake is also the home to world’s only floating park, Keibul Lamjao National Park which is the last natural refuge of the shy and elegant, endangered dancing deer, Sangai. Loktak Lake is accessible through Moirang town, and less than an hour away from Imphal airport and Imphal town.
Stay at Keibul Homestay located right in the middle of Loktak Lake. There are traditional thatched huts that provide a cozy abode for the laid back travelers. There are a few pitched tents also for adventure lovers. Enjoy the local way of living and savor the lip smacking local meal served in traditional style. If you like fishing you can try your luck at that as well.
Tariff: 2500/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast & Dinner
#5. Mayurbhanj – Odisha
If you are looking for an offbeat adventure that allows you to live like royalty, in a palace surrounded by art and culture, this is the place. Once a princely state, Mayurbhanj is Odisha’s largest district which is renowned for its art and architecture. Just three and a half hours drive from both Kolkata and Bhubaneswar, it has unique ancient temples, museums, dense forest lands, green vegetation and rich wildlife as well. Simlipal, the second largest national park in India is just a few hours from here. Joranda and Barehipani Falls, 2nd and 8th largest waterfalls in India are also a part of this district.
Stay at House of Mayurbhanj the palace of the Bhanjas who are known to be the longest reigning clan who ruled Mayurbhanj for more than 1000 years. The interiors of the palace echo the golden era of the state with vintage vinyl records, Persian carpets, old world chandeliers and century old oil paintings placed along the halls and porches of the estate.
Tariff: 10,880/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#6. Manali – Himachal
Manali is an all time favorite destination in Himachal. It is always a good idea to unwind here for a few days in the fresh mountain air. The beauty of this popular destination is that it has something to offer to every kind of traveler; whether you are a solo traveler in search of inner peace, an adventure backpacker or a romantic, Manali and its mountains will never cease to fascinate you. Not just this, it has a rich cultural heritage as well.
Stay at the Cozy Hug Homestay that is nestled amidst an apple orchard and provides captivating views of the Kullu valley, snow clad mountains and Beas-Manaslu River sangam. It is well connected by an all weather concrete road and is located just 1km from Vashisht village. There are lots of hiking trails around for outdoor enthusiasts and some good cafes as well nearby to hang out.
Tariff: 2400/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#7. Ranthambore – Rajasthan
Located in Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, Ranthambore is a paradise not just for the wildlife enthusiasts but also for photographers, nature lovers and history buffs. The dense tropical forest, grassy meadows, open bushland and rocky terrain interspersed with lakes and streams make its landscapes extremely beautiful. The nearest airport is Jaipur (160 km) and the nearest railway station is Sawai Madhopur (8 km).
Stay at Ethnic Homestay located in a peaceful tiny village, close to Ranthambore National Park entrance. This eco-friendly house surrounded with lush greenery is made in typical Rajasthani style and has a beautiful view of Guava orchard, green fields and Aravalli hills from the terrace. You can enjoy the village ambiance while having the comfort of all modern amenities.
Tariff: 3000/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#8. Bordi – Maharashtra
Just about 155 km from Mumbai, Bordi is one of the cleanest and safest beaches. The beach front is an ideal place for long walks, a quiet read, a place to sketch, introspect or just laze around in the sand. Its vast unbroken horizon plays host to magnificent scenes of the setting sun. With a landscape that is densely dotted with orchards of Chickoo trees, Lime trees, swaying Coconut palms, and green paddy fields, Bordi’s natural landscape soothes the eye and the soul.
Stay at Bordi Heritage Homestay, a place where the echoes of time still speak of an era of relaxed style, rich taste and sheer class. Located just across the road from the Bordi beach, the home originally a part of a 100 acre orchard is a 150 years old ancestral property, thoughtfully laid out over 8 acres of land. The home is filled with quaint antique pieces and tastefully upholstered furniture that have stood the test of time.
Tariff: 12000/- for entire property that accommodates 4 Adult & 4 kids
#9. Gokarna – Karnataka
Ideal for a slow relaxed holiday, Gokarna offers breathtaking landscapes and is home to some pristine beaches. The tall palm trees, waves of the ocean gushing towards the rocks, and the evening sun melting into the ocean add a surrealistic appeal to the place. It also has one of the oldest temples – Mahabaleshwar. Gokarna is well connected on road and by rail. The town is about 238 km from Mangalore and 483 km from Bengaluru. It has its own railway station and the nearest airport is at Dabolim 140 kms away.
Stay at Euphoria Homestay nestled amidst mango plantations. Surrounded by the Western Ghats, this tiled roof traditional house is a perfect mix of traditional and modern style of living. It is a peaceful place with just the sounds of chirping birds and if you are lucky expect to see some lovely birds and peacocks in the compound.
Tariff: 2200/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#10. South Goa
Goa is the perfect mix of natural beauty, lively nightlife, and tropical environs. While North Goa is all about its nightlife and liveliness, South Goa offers a mix of unspoiled exotic beaches, lush wildlife reserves, beautiful churches and temples rich in history, glimpses into Portuguese culture, mind-blowing seafood and an unmatched romantic vibe. There are also many thrilling water sports to indulge in, like jet skiing and parasailing. You can also chase dolphins in the sea.
Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport, 6 kms away and Vasco Da Gama Railway Station is the nearest railway station at a distance of around 9 kms.
Stay at Sand & Shore Homestay located in a quiet, tranquil and laid back friendly village close to Hollant beach in South Goa. This homestay is a perfect mix of warm homely vibes with cute furry friends and fun people, the best of home-made Goan food and the beach just round the corner. Learn kayaking and stand up paddle boarding, go sailing or scuba diving, do cycling or birding, try yoga or assist the hosts in their farms.
Tariff: 4000/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
#11. Chilapata – West Bengal
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, consider visiting less known Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal. It lies in the heart of the picturesque Eastern Dooars at the foothills of the Eastern Himalaya. It is the most important migration corridor of One Horned Rhinos and Asiatic Elephants. Chilapata is also the home to more than 20 species of snakes, leopards, bison, wild pigs and a large variety of butterflies.
Stay at Chakoakheti Homestay situated in close vicinity of the dense Chilapata forest and is surrounded by paddy fields. On request, Rabha Tribal dance performance can also be organized within the homestay premises. The host can help you arrange your Jungle Safari with pick up from the homestay.
Tariff: 2500/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast
#12. Ramgarh – Uttarakhand
This is a perfect place to be at, if you want a relaxing holiday in the lap of the mountains. This unexplored gem is tucked in Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand and is located just 26kms from Nainital. It is blessed with mesmerizing views of snow covered mountain peaks. Ramgarh is where Guru Rabindranath concluded his most famous poem Geetanjali. Hindi poet Mahadevi Verma, patriot and writer Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’ and Sachidananda “Agyeya” also lived here.
Stay at Bohrakote Homestay, a boutique family run place, built in the middle of a 24000 sq ft organic farm. There is a mountain stream flowing just at a walking distance. You can have a relaxed time lazing around in the garden ot the balcony of the room, or get involved in the farm activities. Enjoy catching fish from the inhouse pond and relish it in your meals.
Tariff: 4200/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast & Dinner
#13. Udaipur – Rajasthan
Lined with green Aravali range and a series of peaceful lakes, Udaipur is one the most beautiful places in Rajasthan which is filled with eternal beauty. It is famous for its Rajput-era palaces and carries a wide history and culture. Udaipur city has its own airport and railway station.
Stay at Hilltop Castle Heritage Homestay, an 18th-century castle located on a hilltop overlooking a beautiful lake provides a breathtaking valley view from all the sides. Starting from the mesmerizing sunrise to the gorgeous sunset and then the night view of the city – the spectacular views throughout the day will enchant you. If you love nature; peaceful, tranquil environment and want to recharge & rejuvenate, this is the place to be.
Tariff: 4000/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
#14. Lotwara – Rajasthan
Just about 100 kms from Jaipur, Lotwara is located on the banks of pious Banganga River and is surrounded by lush green fields. Probably most thickly populated with peacock, it’s also known as “Peacock Town” of Rajasthan. The nearest airport is Jaipur (105 km) and the nearest railway station is Bandikui (20 km). It is just around 5 hrs drive from Delhi.
Stay at Lotwara Heritage Homestay that is a fine example of traditional Rajput architecture. Invincible boundary wall, the main porch, rooms built around a courtyard, Kachehri which is still used to meet common people of the village and Chhatris on the top makes it a complete Rajputana residence.
Tariff: 3650/- for a double occupancy room. Including: Breakfast & Dinner
Balaharmeetsingh says: Thanks for this information
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