Its Raksha Bandhan today; a day to celebrate the special bond shared between a brother and sister. In childhood, this day is all about buying that special rakhi for the brother, dressing up in finery, eating a sumptuous family meal and finding that perfect gift for the sister. Then as we grow older, there are a lot of things to worry about, an office where you can’t get an off, an exam that the sister can’t miss, the increased physical distances, and the memories tend to fade in the hustle- bustle of life. But the bond is still there, it isn’t regular fights and fun but a few quick messages on chat, or a quick phone call twice a week. Does this mean that you love your brother/sister any less? We don’t think so!
This Raksha Bandhan show your brother/sister that you care. With the weekend round the corner, take your sibling and go out for a family break. A time where you can bond all over again. We have compiled a list of holiday destinations for you; that will help rejuvenate your body and soul.
Ooty – Udhagamandalam or Ootacamund or Ooty is a popular hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills. Originally occupied by the Todas, the area came under the rule of the East India Company at the end of the 18th century. Today the town’s economy is mainly based on tourism and agriculture. The town is connected to the rest of India by road and rail, and its historic sites and natural beauty attract many tourists every year. Ooty is situated in the Nilgiri hills, also known as The Blue Mountains. It is unknown whether this name comes from the blue smoky haze given off by the eucalyputus trees that cover the area, or because of the kurunji flower, which blooms every twelve years giving the slopes a bluish tinge. Ooty served as the summer capital of the Madras Presidency and other small kingdoms, much visited by British during the colonial days, and as today, a popular summer and weekend resort. It even has a summer palace of the Maharaja of Mysore which is now converted into a resort. The lofty mountains, great lakes, dense forests, sprawling grasslands, miles of tea gardens and eucalyptus trees greet the visitors en route to Ooty. The hill station itself is a land of picturesque picnic spots.
Kabini – Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants. It is 80 km (50 mi) away from Mysore and 205 km (127 mi) from Bangalore, and comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarahole National Park. Situated on the banks of the Kabini River, this forest reserve is spread over 55 acres (22 ha) of forestland, steep valleys, and water bodies. Once a private hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Mysore, Kabini was a popular shikar hotspot for British Viceroys and Indian royalty. Now it is considered to be one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka, famous for its spectacular wildlife and bird life. There are a number of resorts around Kabini that offer a 2 day package with stay.
Goa – The historic city of Margao still exhibits the cultural influence of the Portuguese, who first landed in the early 16th century as merchants and conquered it soon thereafter. Goa is a former Portuguese colony, the Portuguese overseas territory of Portuguese India existed for about 450 years until it was annexed by India in 1961.
Renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture, Goa is visited by large numbers of international and domestic tourists each year. It also has rich flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, which is classified as a biodiversity hotspot. Goa has a distinct monsoon magic. As it is an off season, the hotel rates would be cheaper. It’s a different side of goa that offers lush green surroundings, a cruise down the river, wildlife and river rafting, museums, churches and the local markets!
Kerala – Kerala is an important tourist destination in India; the backwaters, beaches, Ayurvedic tourism and tropical greenery are the
major attractions. National Geographic’s Traveler magazine named Kerala as one of the “ten paradises of the world” and “50 must see destinations of a lifetime”; Travel + Leisure listed it as “one of the 100 great trips for the 21st century”. Monsoon’s bless Kerala with astounding beauty. One can check the home stay’s available at Kerala and take the ayurvedic spa treatments, midst the coffee, coconut and spice plantations.
So what are you waiting for, its time you woo your sibling and have some crackling fun, just like the olden days!
Ferrnhills RoyaalPalace 