Khajjiar
One of the most scenic hill stations in India, Khajjiar is often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India” because it resembles the Swiss Alps. Located at an altitude of 6,500 feet, Khajjiar offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and a serene lake. The place is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and honeymooners.
- Things to do in Khajjiar: You can enjoy various activities in Khajjiar, such as horse riding, paragliding, zorbing, trekking, and camping. You can also visit the Khajji Nag Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Himachal Pradesh, dating back to the 12th century. The temple is dedicated to the serpent god and has intricate carvings of wooden pillars and images of Pandavas.
- How to reach Khajjiar: Khajjiar is well connected by road from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala, which is about 120 km away. The nearest railway station is Pathankot, which is about 80 km away.
- Best time to visit Khajjiar: The best time to visit Khajjiar is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is covered with snow. You can also witness the Khajjiar Lake Festival, which is held in February every year and showcases the local culture and cuisine.
Gokarna, Karnataka
If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, Gokarna is the perfect destination for you. Gokarna is a coastal town in Karnataka, known for its pristine beaches and ancient temples. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow.
- Things to do in Gokarna: You can unwind on one of the town’s stunning beaches, such as Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach. You can enjoy sunbathing, yoga on the sand, surfing, kayaking, and dolphin spotting. You can also visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which houses a sacred lingam that is said to be the original image of Lord Shiva. You can also explore the Koti Tirtha, a holy lake where devotees take a dip to wash away their sins.
- How to reach Gokarna: Gokarna is easily accessible by road from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Goa. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about 140 km away. The nearest railway station is Ankola, which is about 20 km away.
- Best time to visit Gokarna: The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the beaches are less crowded. You can also experience the Shivaratri Festival, which is celebrated in February or March every year and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists.
Dzukou Valley, Nagaland and Manipur
If you are an avid trekker and nature lover, you should not miss the opportunity to visit Dzukou Valley, a hidden gem of Northeast India. Dzukou Valley is a valley located on the border of Nagaland and Manipur, at an altitude of 8,000 feet. It is known for its lush greenery, diverse flora, and serpentine streams. It is also home to the rare Dzukou lily, which blooms only in June and July.
- Things to do in Dzukou Valley: You can trek through the valley and enjoy the scenic views of the hills, valleys, and rivers. You can also camp on the camping grounds and spend a night under the stars. You can also visit the Sanctuary Falls, a waterfall that freezes during the winter months and creates a spectacular sight. You can also explore the natural caves and the Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary, which is adjacent to the valley and hosts a variety of wildlife.
- How to reach Dzukou Valley: Dzukou Valley can be reached by two routes, one from Viswema village in Nagaland and another from Zakhama village in Manipur. You can book a private car or a taxi from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, or from Imphal, the capital of Manipur, to reach these villages. From there, you have to trek for about 15 to 17 km to reach the valley. The trek is moderately difficult and takes about 3 to 6 hours, depending on your fitness level and pace.
- Best time to visit Dzukou Valley: The best time to visit Dzukou Valley is from June to September, when the valley is in full bloom and the weather is pleasant. You can also visit from October to March, when the valley is dry and offers a clear view of the surroundings.
