Categories
Travel Guide

Plan Europe Tour

For decades, Europe has remained an unattainable dream for many, seen and admired only on the silver screen. Whether it is the gorgeous snow-covered Swiss mountains, the chic vibe of Paris, the cosmopolitan flair of London, the stunning art in Florence or the culturally evocative streets of Spain, Europe is versatile and simply stunning. It’s no wonder that Europe Holiday Packages are so popular and are much sought after. The number of countries that you can cover in a single vacation is quite mind boggling but travelling expands your mental canvas in a way that nothing else can. Europe is rightly the centre of culture and quite possibly the heart of modern civilisation. Lastly, food is one of the more popular reasons people love to go on a vacation to Europe because it packs in a magnificent amount of diversity when it comes to food and drink.

For many people, Europe is the ultimate honeymoon destination. Or it’s just the sort of holiday you need to take if you want to take a break from the tedium of your everyday work and life. Whatever the reason, a Europe trip is certainly going to bring a smile on your face. With so many different facets on offer, you can decide whether you want to let your hair down and party in the glorious cities of Paris or Berlin, or become a culture vulture for a change and visit the awe-inspiring museums, you won’t find yourself short of things to do. Adventure lovers will be thrilled with some of the fantastic things that you can do in Europe such as mountain climbing, bungee jumping or even skiing to name just a few and well, gourmands have nothing to complain, what with the availability of delicious food and wine no matter where you go. We arrange a Customized Europe holiday that focuses on just the things you want to do. Naturally, this makes your vacation even more perfect. If you’ve always thought ‘now or never’ is too dramatic, wait till you decide to go on your Europe Trip.

Best Time to Visit Europe
The best time to visit Europe is during the summers and it lasts from June to August. The weather during this time is just perfect for sightseeing and all the different activities that you want to undertake. Since the weather is sunny and warm, there are a number of cultural festivals and galas that are slotted for this time and many people come to Europe specifically for these events. However, do remember that Europe has several countries and they won’t have the same weather at the same time.

Summer in Europe might be the best time to visit but it’s also one of the most crowded times as well. There will often be throngs of tourists in popular cities like Amsterdam, Berlin and of course Paris during this time. Apart from the crowds, the other drawback is that you won’t be able to get tickets for events and tourist attractions unless you book in advance. Everything – from travel to stay – will cost more, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets, hotel and even car rentals ahead of time.

However, Europe during off season has its own charms as well. Apart from the obvious advantages of cheaper flights and accommodation, there are fewer crowds too. This season is usually from April to June and September to November. However, the downsides could be that there might be inclement weather and you have to be ready for it. Also, if you don’t mind cold weather, then you can even travel to Europe during winter. After all, who doesn’t enjoy the snow and skiing among other things? However, several attractions are closed during winter, so you have to check carefully before making plans. 


How to Reach Europe
The best way to reach Europe is by flight, especially if you’re travelling from India. There are direct flights from several major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad to popular destinations in Europe such as Rome, Paris, London, Berlin and Amsterdam to name a few. However, do note that there are no direct flights to countries like Denmark or Sweden. But there are numerous connecting flights that you can take which have a small stopover in Middle Eastern countries. Since summer is peak season in Europe, it’s a good idea to book your flight tickets well in advance.

Once you’re in Europe, you can choose to fly to different countries on local carriers like Ryan Air or Easy Jet, but these offer the basic minimum which might not be the best when it comes to travelling in comfort or with luggage. Another excellent option is to travel around by car, and you can visit multiple countries even in a rental car. However, you must have a license to drive in Europe.

One of the best ways to get around the different countries in Europe however is by train. The Eurail connects 28 countries and offers scenic routes which are quite unforgettable. Another option is to travel by bus which is also cheaper than train travel. Bus travel is quite comfy too and most bus companies offer Wi-Fi services which make travel easier.

Places to Visit in Europe
With forty-four countries in Europe, each having something fantastic to offer visitors, it can get quite difficult to choose where you want to go. Nevertheless, here are some of the places to see in Europe, countries that you must visit if you want to have the full European experience.

France
One of the most popular countries to visit in Europe is undoubtedly France. Located in Western Europe, France has both cosmopolitan and medieval elements, which irrefutably make it one of the best places to visit. Paris is a delight for those who revel in fashion or even culture, thanks to museums like the Louvre and the Pompidou Centre and of course, the inimitable Eiffel Tower. Apart from Paris, other must-see places here include Normandy, Versailles and the glamorous Riviera. France is the hub for all things beautiful and should certainly be on your list of places to see in Europe.

Germany

Located in Western Europe, Germany is simply par excellence when it comes to lush landscapes, forests, mountains, rivers and what not. At the same time, cities like Berlin bring an air of cultivation and culture with its art and vibrant nightlife. If beer is your thing, then you should definitely visit Munich for the famed Oktoberfest while Frankfurt with its awe-inspiring skyscrapers has its own charms. If you want to do some hiking or skiing, then the Alps are spectacular and perfect, making this an obvious reason why you should visit the country.

Italy

Italy is yet another unmissable country in Europe, filled with beauty and delight. With some landmark spots to see here such as the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy is a must visit spot for tourists. Apart from these famed sightseeing places, there’s also Florence, Venice and of course Milan. Those who visit Italy are unable to resist the pizza in Naples and of course historic cities like Pompeii and Sicily which have much to offer in terms of ruins and a sense of a civilisation.

Spain

Spain brings yet another facet of Europe into the open. Its loud, boisterous and vibrant and filled with visual delights such as the Royal Palace in Madrid and gorgeous structures in Barcelona. But what strikes one here the most is the intense love for food and the deep culinary culture that is a part of the country. There’s more to Spanish food than paella but it perfectly encapsulates the richness of the cuisine and well, since it’s also the home of sangria, there’s much to celebrate here. Also, famous here is the passion-filled flamenco and the exuberant bullfighting.

Greece
Yet another historic country, Greece today is perfect for those who love beaches and tasty Mediterranean food. Stark whitewashed houses framed around the brilliant blue seas is a typical Grecian scene that you might have come across on a postcard. But a visit to Crete, Mykonos and of course Santorini will have you believe the picturesque views you’ve seen so far. Athens, the capital, is famous for its ancient ruins like the Parthenon and the Acropolis. Greece is also famed for its delicious food – feta cheese, olives, lamb and fish to name a few favourites.

Switzerland

Quiet and stunningly picturesque describes Switzerland best. With its many lakes, quaint villages and of course, the snow-covered Alps, a trip to Switzerland is a feast for the eyes. Some of the well-known places to visit here are the capital city of Bern, the global financial centre of Zurich, Interlaken, Grindelwald and of course Geneva. Switzerland can feel like it’s an overload of sensation but it’s the best kind of feeling. To be surrounded by all that beauty is surreal in a way but that’s what a trip to Switzerland feels like, a wonderland that continues to be breathtakingly beautiful.

Netherlands

Among the places to see in Europe, Netherlands also occupies prime position. The sight of the windmills or the tulip fields stretching far into the horizon is heartening while the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum offer more serene and arty delights. There are also several medieval castles and canals and the humongous Hoge Veluwe National Park which is 13,800 acres and one of the most popular destinations for tourists and even locals. The towns and villages themselves are extremely pretty and colourful and in a way epitomise Europe in the best possible way.

Croatia

With thousands of miles of seafront and more than a thousand islands, Croatia’s coastline is Central Europe’s Riviera. Holiday-makers love its pebbly beaches, balmy summer weather, and dramatic mountains. But there’s history here as well: from ruined Roman arenas and Byzantine mosaics to Venetian bell towers, Habsburg villas, and even communist concrete, past rulers have left their mark. Most travelers flock to the Dalmatian Coast, where dramatic cliffs rise from the deep and islands are scattered just offshore. But savvy travelers make time for more: the Venetian-flavored Kvarner Gulf and Istrian Peninsula, the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes, and Zagreb, the nation’s engaging capital.

Food in Europe
Food is the common unifier that brings people together and with its diversity of cultures and countries, Europe indeed has the best to offer. There’s something here for every taste and some of it is even quite iconic. It would be quite difficult to list the ones that would symbolise European food because of the sheer variety that’s available throughout the continent. Here are some of the popular dishes that you can expect to taste while travelling in Europe.

Waffles and Strudels
The unmistakeable delight of biting into a warm strudel, flaky and buttery, filled with raisins and topped with whipped cream is something that has to be experienced at least once in a lifetime. And although waffles are now popular all over the world, try the ones in Belgium and you’ll know the delicious difference.

Cheese
It’s impossible to visit Europe and not indulge in cheese especially as so much of it is made here. Whether it is the halloumi cheese from Cyprus or the famed skyr from Iceland or fondue from Switzerland, cheese lovers will have much to rejoice in Europe.

Bread
Croissants from France, rye bread from Estonia, bread dumplings from the Czech Republic, pretzels from Germany and juicy gyros from Greece are just some of the few ways in which you can enjoy this staple in Europe. Of course, let’s not forget pizza from Naples or cinnamon rolls from Sweden.


Things to Do in Europe

Europe is filled with several things to do and you may feel short changed if you miss out on some of these iconic activities. Even though several tour packages include most of these activities, there are some which you must try to make time for, because they will make your experience unforgettable.


Visit the Ars Electronica Centre in Austria
Popularly known as the Museum of the Future, this is one of the places that’s perfect for tech lovers or even those who have a scientific bent of mind. The CAVE (Cave Automatic Visual Environment) is the kind of virtual reality that will have your senses spinning and make you feel like you’ve stepped out of the world into another one altogether. 


Check out the Santa Claus Village in Finland
While it seems straight out of a storybook, it’s completely true. There’s a Santa Claus village in Finland which actually receives all the letters from children all over the world. Rovaniemi, or the Santa Claus Village is actually just ten minutes away from the Arctic Circle and you can even visit his reindeer and go on a sleigh ride in the snow!


Enjoy bathing in the Krka National Park
The water in the lakes in the Krka National Park in Croatia is crystal clear and a brilliant shade of turquoise. It’s perfect for a cool and refreshing dip during the day and you will see plenty of families here, enjoying the deliciously cold water and having fun.


Go on a cruise on the Thames 
It can’t get more English than this. A cruise on the Thames that takes you past global landmarks while you sip tea in the elegant cruise ship is just perfect and an activity that you must not miss if possible.


Soar across the sky in a hot air balloon
France’s Dordogne Valley is stunningly beautiful but what makes it even better is if you can get to fly on a hot air balloon over the valley. The sights as you float across the sky and look down below are simply out of this world.


Don’t miss out on the Northern Lights
If there’s one thing you simply must see when in Europe, it’s the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland. From September to April, it’s possible to see these beautiful landscapes in the sky and you will feel every single moment of wonder keenly.

Categories
Weekend Gateway

Cordelia Cruises Mumbai Goa Mumbai

Cordelia Cruises Mumbai Goa Mumbai

Cordelia Cruises is India’s luxury cruise liner. Cordelia aspires to promote and drive the cruise culture in India through experiences that are stylish, luxurious and most importantly, inherently Indian. Cordelia is a cruise liner for Indians catering to the way Indians love to holiday.

The Empress

The Empress by Cordelia Cruises is an iconic grandeur vessel that first set sail in the year 1990 with the name The Nordic Empress. The ship was initially ordered by Admiral Cruises and later incorporated into the Royal Caribbean fleet. After sailing the Bahamas and the Caribbean, The Empress will be cruising the West and the East Coast of INDIA under the Indian Cruise Liner, Cordelia Cruises ..

  • Guest Capacity 1800
  • 11 Decks
  • 796 Guest Cabin

Mumbai – Goa– Mumbai 2 Nights/2 Days @ INR 12932

Mumbai – High Sea– Mumbai 2 Nights/2 Days @ INR 12932
Categories
Weekend Gateway

India’s First Premium Cruise :- Jalesh Cruise Ex. Mumbai

Jalesh Cruise

Jalesh Cruise Ex. Mumbai

Jalesh Cruises is India’s first multi-destination cruise line that has the best of entertainment shows, adventure activities and exotic authentic cuisines packed with international hospitality on the high sea. The cruise is designed & customised especially for the Indian audience and also for the foreigners visiting India to experience the flavour of Indian culture, food & hospitality.

KARNIKA

Karnika exemplifies dream to make the world a happy place. Karnika, maiden ship is set to take you on an unparalleled journey filled with numerous experiences that will leave you breathless and yet wanting for more. The very moment this deluxe cruise moves, cutting through the high seas, you can get high on exhilaration. Shake a leg to pulsating music, dig into tantalizing cuisines, partake in adventures, get spellbound by bespoke performances and a host of other activities. No matter what’s your age, you will still feel young at heart as the tornado of excitement hits you and fills your hearts with joy, delight and happiness. Come aboard to experience a euphoria you can never shake off.

  • Guest Capacity 2032
  • 14 Decks
  • 837 Guest Cabin
  • Deck Pool
  • Casino on Cruise

Upto 30% Off On Jan 2021 Onwards Sailing* ( Valid Till 15th Oct,2020 )

Mumbai – Goa– Mumbai 3 Nights/4 Days @ INR 26657
Mumbai – Lakshadweep – Goa- Mumbai 4 Nights/5 Days @ INR 35513
Mumbai – Diu- Mumbai 2 Nights/3 Days @ INR 17756
Categories
Travel Guide

Northern lights

Northern lights

The northern lights, one of several astronomical phenomena called polar lights (aurora polaris), are shafts or curtains of colored light visible on occasion in the night sky.

Polar lights (aurora polaris) are a natural phenomenon found in both the northern and southern hemispheres that can be truly awe inspiring. Northern lights are also called by their scientific name, aurora borealis, and southern lights are called aurora australis.

The origin of the aurora begins on the surface of the sun when solar activity ejects a cloud of gas. Scientists call this a coronal mass ejection (CME). If one of these reaches earth, taking about 2 to 3 days, it collides with the Earth’s magnetic field. This field is invisible, and if you could see its shape, it would make Earth look like a comet with a long magnetic ‘tail’ stretching a million miles behind Earth in the opposite direction of the sun.

When a coronal mass ejection collides with the magnetic field, it causes complex changes to happen to the magnetic tail region. These changes generate currents of charged particles, which then flow along lines of magnetic force into the Polar Regions. These particles are boosted in energy in Earth’s upper atmosphere, and when they collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, they produce dazzling auroral light.

Can I see them anywhere?

Yes, although they are more frequent at higher latitudes and places like Alaska, Canada, and Antarctica, closer to the Earth’s poles.  Occasionally, they have been seen closer to the equator, and even as far  south as Mexico. To view them, look in the direction of the closest pole (the northern horizon in the northern hemisphere, the southern horizon in the southern hemisphere).

Can I see them at any time of the year?

Yes. In some areas, such as Alaska or Greenland, they may be visible most nights of the year. And they occur at any time of the day, but we can’t see them with the naked eye unless it’s dark.

What causes the colors and patterns?

Colors and patterns are from the types of ions or atoms being energized as they collide with the atmosphere and are affected by lines of magnetic force. Displays may take many forms, including rippling curtains, pulsating globs, traveling pulses, or steady glows. Altitude affects the colors. Blue violet/reds occur below 60 miles (100 km), with bright green strongest between 60-150 miles (100-240 km). Above 150 miles (240 km) ruby reds appear.

Magical Places to View Northern Lights

Iceland

Even without the northern lights, Iceland is an otherworldly place to visit, with glaciers, geysers, massive waterfalls, and volcanoes. Both the latitude and longitude of the country favor aurora viewing, but the weather doesn’t always cooperate. However, a good coastline road around the country lets you chase clear skies.

I have seen my best auroras from Kirkjufell mountain on the west coast. In high activity you can even spy the northern lights from the suburbs of Reykjavík; the Grotta Lighthouse is a popular viewing spot.

Across the country, sky watchers can take in the dancing lights from outdoor hot tubs, inside Buubble lodges, and from hot spring lagoons.

When to Go: Late August to early April

Fairbanks, Alaska

Located just two degrees below the Arctic near international airport and close to the impressive Denali National Park, Fairbanks is the best place in the U.S. to take in the northern lights. It even has its own forecast system and offers tours to take visitors far from city lights.

When to Go: Late August to mid-April

Yellowknife, Canada

This Northwest Territories capital on the shores of Great Slave Lake boasts its own Aurora Village and special activities for northern lights tourism.

Canada is an aurora viewing paradise, thanks to its northern latitude and low light pollution; elsewhere in the country, Wood Buffalo and Jasper National Park are popular viewing spots.

When to Go: Mid-August to late April. For Churchill and Wood Buffalo, early August to early May.

Tromsø, Norway

The largest urban area in northern Norway is 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, but thanks to the Gulf Stream the coastline has surprisingly moderate temperatures. It also has beautiful scenery, magnificent fjords, and the Lyngen Alps.

I have seen spectacular auroras from the village of Ersfjordbotn, 12 miles from Tromsø. Other popular locations in the country are the Lofoten Islands and the far northern towns of Alta, Nordkapp, and Kirkenes.

When to Go: Mid-September to late March

Northern Sweden and Finland

Sweden’s northernmost town of Kiruna is a gateway for nearby attractions. There is the ICEHOTEL, mountainous Abisko National Park, the local Sami culture, and plentiful reindeer. A short drive from the town takes you to a good spot for aurora viewing. The weather here is much more stable than the Norwegian coast, but it’s colder too.

In Finland’s Lapland region, Rovaniemi serves as a gateway town to nearby national parks—where in winter you can spot frozen snow-covered trees called Tykky sculptures along with the northern lights.

When to Go: Mid-September to late March

Greenland

It’s possible to be too far north to see the northern lights—such is the case in northern Greenland. But head farther south for beautiful auroras and attractions like Qaleraliq Glacier, which has small floating icebergs even in summer.

When to Go: Mid-August to late April in the south and late August to mid-April in Nuuk.

Tasmania and New Zealand

You hear about northern lights more often than southern lights (aurora australis) because there are fewer locations to see auroras from the Southern Hemisphere. Your best chance is on the southern tip of both Tasmania (Australia) and New Zealand, where a dark sky will help you see any active auroras over the southern horizon. These are the closest accessible places to the south magnetic pole, outside of Antarctica.

When to Go: Year round, but your best chances are near equinoxes.

Categories
Weekend Gateway

Monsoon Weekend Getaways Near Mumbai

The monsoons in Mumbai city can be pretty chaotic. There’s an increase in traffic jams, the downpour can be heavy and there are many instances of flooding. On the positive side, the monsoon is the best time to escape the city life.

On the outskirts of Mumbai and in Maharashtra there are many hill stations, beach towns, and forts that are ideal for a quick monsoon getaway. If you are looking for a monsoon getaway and aren’t sure of where to do, our guide to the best monsoon getaways near Mumbai should help you pick that ideal destination. For Hotel Deals , Click here.

Monsoon Weekend Getaways from Mumbai (Within 100 kilometers)

1. Karnala

Karnala is a stone’s throw away from Mumbai. Go here during the monsoon to enjoy one of the most scenic treks in Maharashtra. The climb up to the Karnala Fort during the rains is a wonderful experience.

You get to see the entire meadow transformed into one big green blanket and the streams of water are a magical sight. The bird sanctuary here on the other is hand sees over 198 species of birds singing and dancing in the rain. Most of these are migratory birds that come here from afar.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 48 kilometres

2. Karjat

Located close to Mumbai, Karjat is a beautiful place for a monsoon getaway. In the rainy season, the foliage around the roads blooms with a pure green tinge that makes exploring the outdoors a fun experience.

In Karjat there are many adventure activities like trekking and rock climbing conducted. For those who love movies, a visit to the N D Theme Park will be an awesome experience. Here they have replicas of sets from some famous Bollywood and Hollywood films. Other cool things to do in the monsoon here are exploring the Kondana Caves and a few waterfalls.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 64 kilometres

3. Matheran

If there is one place that offers a clean, cool and refreshing environment then that place is Matheran. The hill station is a haven of activity, there so much to do here that one can never get bored. You can go sightseeing, visit numerous temples, and indulge in some delicious local cuisine.

In the monsoon, Matheran turns into a paradise for adventure lovers. During this time, there are many treks that can be undertaken here. One of the most famous treks in Matheran is the trail that leads to the One Tree Hill. So, the next time you’re looking for a monsoon weekend getaway near Mumbai, you know where to go.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 80 kilometres

4. Lonavala

Lonavala is one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra. Here you can find plenty of activities and experiences to enjoy; there are waterfalls, beautiful hills, and even lakes. You can go trekking, rock climbing, and even enjoy a quiet relaxed time at the lakes.

Lonavala is ideal to experience in the monsoon as the weather is cool and chilly.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 83 kilometers

5. Durshet

Looking for a short weekend trip that is less crowded than the other hill stations and beaches? Then we suggest you head to Durshet. Blessed with beautiful landscape views and lovely surroundings, Durshet has everything you need to enjoy yourself to the maximum.

With so much to do, you’ll wonder where to start. Here, you can experience many outdoor adventure sports, go trekking to some lovely hills and even enjoy watersports at the Amba River.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 87 kilometers.

6. Alibaug

Alibaug has pristine beaches, gorgeous old-style bungalows, and even some beautiful forts. Ideal for a weekend monsoon getaway from Mumbai, go here if you love exploring the outdoors but are not too keen on trekking and adventure sports.

To get to Alibaug, one can take a boat from the Gateway of India or just drive down from Mumbai. Popular tourist attractions in Alibaug are the Kolaba and Murud-Janjira forts and the Varsoli and Alibaug beaches. There’s also a famous lighthouse here, where a few Marathi and Hindi films were shot.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 95 kilometres

Monsoon Weekend Getaways within 200 kilometers of Mumbai

7. Kamshet

Kamshet is generally known for its paragliding activities. However, if you are willing to explore this popular hill station, you’ll find that it has plenty of other outdoor experiences to enjoy.

Its location in the Western Ghats makes it a prime spot for trekking and hiking and there are a few caves here that are magical to explore. Blessed with many forts, tourists who come here can also explore the region’s rich historical remains.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 113 kilometres

8. Kolad

Kolad is the ultimate weekend monsoon getaway for anyone looking to thrill their adventurous side. In this town, there are some fabulous campsites, where adventure sports and group activities are conducted.

The most famous outdoor activity held here is water rafting during the monsoon. People from across the country come here to enjoy water sports in the waters of Kolad. Other fun adventure sports to enjoy here are trekking, zip lining and canoeing.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 122 kilometres

9. Jawhar

Situated in the Thane district of Maharashtra, Jawhar has many natural attractions to see. An unknown place, at Jawhar you will see waterfalls, forts, and the famous Jai Vilas Palace. There are also lookout points that offer splendid views of the hills. Popular among these are Hanuman and Sunset points.

Jawhar is also a great place if one loves shopping for art. At this hill station, the Warli art is very famous. In the markets, you’ll find many artists selling their Warli paintings on canvas, mugs, among much else.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 140 kilometres

10. Malshej Ghat

If you are looking for a place to enjoy the thrills and chills that nature has to offer, visit Malshej Ghat. Here, you will find plenty of scenic hiking trails that are just fabulous to explore in the monsoon. The Darkoba Peak, Jivdhan Chawand Fort, and the Ajoba Hill Fort are some trekking trails that are worth exploring.

At Malshej Ghat, you can travel to the Harishchandragad Fort Trek, a 6th-century fort rooted in history, to learn about rich architectural styles of the Maratha Empire. If you still keep learning more, head 40 kilometres ahead to the famous Shivneri Fort.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 140 kilometres

11. Bhandardara

Bhandardara is a hidden weekend getaway spot that is quite literally unexplored. Not so popular as compared to the other hill stations in Maharashtra, this place does throw a few surprises.

Here you will find sprawling greenery and gorgeous waterfalls that are great for exploring, especially in the monsoons. Whether you like trekking, camping and even driving through clean and open roads, Bhandardara has it all for you.  Once you’ve completely explored this hill station, head further to the holy city of Shirdi that isn’t too far away from Bhandardara.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 163 kilometres

12. Harihareshwar

Although it is famous for its temples, the town of Harihareshwar has some fabulous beaches that are worth visiting during the monsoon. The beaches here are peaceful and quite unlike the ones in Goa and Alibaug.

The beaches that are surrounded by hills turn into a magical wonderland in the monsoon, leaving all those who visit in awe. A few must-visit places in Harihareshwar are Ganesh Gully, the Harihareshwar Beach, and Bhagamandala.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 197 kilometres

Monsoon Weekend Getaways (Within 200 kilometres)

13. Wai

Wai has long been a Bollywood favorite. In this quaint little town, you will find very beautiful ponds and some gorgeous lakes.

There are also some temples that will give you the feeling of being in the holy town of Haridwar. Go here during the monsoon to escape the noisy city life.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 229 kilometres

14.  Panchgani

If exploring nature is something that you absolutely love, then visiting Panchgani in the monsoon is just what you should do. This hill station has some of the best lookout points and natural attractions in the Satara region. Attractions like Mount Malcolm, Table Land, Wilson Point and the Bombay Point all offer splendid views of the hills.

In the rainy season, the scenes from here are so pretty that one would often confuse it with a fairytale.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 242 kilometres

15. Tapola

Called Mini Kashmir because of its scenic beauty, Tapola is situated close to Mahabaleshwar. An excellent destination for nature lovers, this place has all the right setting for a monsoon getaway near Mumbai. The forts here are deeply connected to India’s history and offer scenic views of the Mahabaleshwar Valley.

Tapola Lake is yet another beautiful spot for tourists. Not only can one enjoy beautiful scenic views, but they can also indulge in kayaking and water rafting. Around the lake, there are free camping sites that are ideal for those who love to spend time outdoors.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 298 kilometres

Monsoon Weekend Getaways more than 300 kilometres of Mumbai

16. Koyna Dam

Located in the Satara region, the Koyna Dam is a cool monsoon weekend destination for anyone looking to avoid crowded holiday spots. Near the dam, there are a few temples and forts to see. Besides this, there is also boating conducted at the river. However, one should note that when it pours heavily, there is no boating conducted.

Although you wouldn’t find a variety resorts in Koyna Dam, there are a few homestays and hotels in the villages nearby that offer comfortable rooms and very good local cuisines.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 348 kilometres

17. Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is an ideal destination for any traveller looking to get away to a quiet secluded beach in Maharashtra. The place is blessed with beautiful beaches that are surrounded by the cosy hills and the famous Ganesha Temple.

Just like the other beaches in Maharashtra such as Alibaug and Kamshet, there are watersports on offer at Ganpatipule. You can explore the Jaigad Fort if you have the time.

  • Distance from Mumbai: 354 kilometres
Categories
Travel Guide

Char Dham Yatra

Uttarakhand is known as Dev Bhoomi (Land of Gods), as it is the land of great pilgrimages, sacred temples and places, which attracts millions of pilgrims and spiritual seekers to get enlightenment. The pilgrimage of 4 Dhams located in Garhwal region are considered the most sacred places in India: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

These four ancient temples also marks the spiritual source of four sacred rivers as well: River Yamuna (Yamunotri), River Ganga or Ganges (Gangotri), River Mandakini (Kedarnath) and River Alaknanda (Badrinath).

Why Char Dhams

Char Dhams are the famous four holy places of Hindu Pilgrimages, which are nestled among the lofty peaks of Himalayas in Uttarakhand. This hindu pilgrimage Char Dham circuit consists of four sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. All these locations are believed to be highly sacred by the Hindu religion. It is the ultimate desire of every Hindu to visit the holy shrines at least once in life time to attain salvation (Moksha).

Why one should do Sacred Pilgrimage Yatras?

According to Hinduism the Pilgrimage tirthayatra (Teerth Yatra), is one of the five duties of every Hindu, along with Dharma, Worship, Sanskaras and Observing religious festivals. A pilgrimage is an exercise in willpower, humility and faith, when the devotee travels to often difficult locations, leaving his problems at the feet of the Deity and forgetting everything but God.

A pilgrimage is an intimate experience, a direct connection between the seeker and the sacred. A devotee goes on pilgrimage to see holy men and women, to worship at holy shrines, to have darshan of Deities abiding in ancient sanctums. A pilgrim journeys to see God have a life-changing, bliss-engendering, karma-eradicating contact with the Divine.

Chardham Yatra Route (4 Dham Travel Circuit)

Traditionally, the Chardham yatra is undertaken from the west to the east, thus, the yatra starts from Yamunotri, then proceeding to Gangotri and finally to Kedarnath and Badrinath. Pilgrims traditionally first visit Yamunotri and Gangotri and bring with them the holy waters from the sources of the rivers Yamuna and Ganga and offer abhishekams to Kedareshwara. Char Dhams of Uttarakhand are also known as Chota Char Dham of India.

Popular Route : Haridwar → Rishikesh → Deo Prayag → Tehri → Dharasu → Yamunotri → Uttarkashi → Gangotri → Gaurikund → Kedarnath → Joshimath → Badrinath.