We all need to break free from the humdrum of our daily lives to experience new places, cuisines, and cultures with family and friends. Family vacations are the most rejuvenating experience, the perfect charge to our otherwise draining batteries. Though you can get a weekend package at one of the many resorts around Bangalore, we suggest a list of 6 great destinations; you must get away to at the next opportunity you get.
1. Chikmagalur
Not more than 240 kms from Bangalore, Chikmagalur is a hill station, with Baba Budangiri to its North, a mountain range in the Western Ghats, with 3 large caves said to be holy. Don’t miss the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary on the way here, which is home to elephants, tigers, and leopards. Trekkers can trek through forests and grasslands that lead up to Mullayanagiri Peak or head to the cascading Hebbe Falls, a must-visit when in Chikmagalur. For a memorable experience, opt to stay amidst a coffee estate instead of the city hotels.
2. Coorg
Located 267 kms from Bangalore, Coorg is the coffee capital of Karnataka and is surrounded by imposing mountains, an everlastingly landscape, lush green coffee estates and cool misty weather throughout the year. If you want to witness the local culture and cuisine first hand, opt for one of the many homestays. The many closely knit towns of Coorg, namely Madikeri, Kushalnagar, Virajpet Gonikoppal, Somwarpet, and Pollibetta have a plethora of attractions besides great weather, spice, and the luscious coffee plantations. The folks are friendly and the landscape is tantalizing, the perfect setting for a great family vacation.
3. Wayanad
Just beyond Coorg at the Karnataka – Kerala border lays Wayanad, still unspoiled by the commercial corridors of the city. Wildlife, tea-plantations and spice trails greet you here. Accommodation options include resorts, budget hotels, and home-stays. Try delicious home-cooked meals offered by many homes at really reasonable rates, an option you might want to explore instead of expensive restaurants. When you want to take a break from the enveloping tranquillity, you can try out the many enthralling adventure sports activities or trek to the summit of the Chembra Peak. A backpacker’s delight, you can truly be one with nature here.
4. Munnar
The first thing you notice when you board off the bus at Munnar, are green hills welcoming you, misty weather and tea plantations covering each hill like a blanket. The hills provide a stunning view and many vantage points to behold the hill range. For the adventure sport lovers, try the enthralling rappelling activities at Munnar for one of the most unforgettable moments in your life. Visit Eravikulam National Park and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. For shopping, head to the commercial center for quaint memorabilia whilst tea lovers can shop for a variety of exotic blends that are up for grab here.
5. Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal means the gift of the forests and rightly so. It is located amidst the slopes of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu and standing at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level. This hill town has a cool, pleasant climate all year round sporting immaculately manicured slopes, scenic waterfalls, cloud-capped mountains, forested valleys, hills, and clear lakes. There are biking and trekking trails that you can explore. Rowing boats can also be hired if you like, or you can simply lay back and let the cozy climate pamper your senses.
6. Ooty
If mountains hold a mystique for you, then head to picturesque Ooty, for a family vacation. Snuggled amidst the Nilgiri hills at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level, Ooty has an amazing climate and spectacular sights of the awe-inspiring Nilgiri hills, tea gardens, and serene waterfalls. The mesmerizing landscape of Ooty is a perfect respite from the city. Ride the toy train and enjoy panoramic views of the hill station or visit the Doddabetta Peak standing tall at 8,606 feet, the highest point of South India. Other touristic places include the Ooty Lake, Ooty Botanical Garden, Ooty Rose garden, the Tea Factory, and the Thread Garden to name a few.
So next time you want to spend a great time in enchanting backdrops, take a vacation. It’s a priceless gift you can give yourself. Or if you are not in the mood for driving, check into one of the family resorts in Bangalore, for a weekend of fun activities. May we suggest The Discovery Village Resort that offers activities, great food, amazing ambiance and uniquely crafted packages for a great family fun-time.
