The Republic Day weekend is the last chance to redeem winter travel. With delayed snowfall in Kashmir and climate change affecting weather patterns, use this weekend to perhaps focus on having a good time with friends and family at offbeat getaways. Here are some ideas on how to do it.
Heard of isolationist travel? That's the new thing now, what with everyone looking for a break in some tranquil spot, surrounded not by crowds but by nature. So we while scouting for perfect vacation ideas, we decided to look at treehouse stays as an option for the Republic Day long weekend. Perched high above the ground on treetops, surrounded by a canopy of leaves, these are the epitome of all our childhood dreams. Here are some amazing treehouses in India that you can book.
Several states have introduced caravan tourism recently. In Karnataka, for instance, circuits are being offered from Bengaluru as the base, to Bheemeshwari, Kabini, Bandipur, Hampi and arounds. You can even create your own trail. Kerala too has set up caravan trip options, as has Maharashtra , Goa and the Andaman & Nicobar islands. Though caravan tourism in India is still only in a nascent stage, efforts to extend trip durations and enable self-driving are in progress. The concept may seem daunting, especially if you've never been on an extended road trip before, but don't worry. We've compiled a handy list of things to do before you hit the road.
No number of open-air gyms, parks, stationary cycles, spa facilities and what have you shuttered within the bounds of the city can provide the free movement and space to stretch one's limbs that the unrestricted "great outdoors" of an organic farm promise. The raw, rustic joy of witnessing and engaging with animal life and venturing into the country, past the golden fields, trumps the instant stimulation of screens for adults and children alike. Choose one that suits you from our lists here and here.
If you are looking to stay in-trend, try a weekend break in Kerala. The state has been appreciated for its 'Responsible Tourism' initiatives undertaken by the Department of Tourism. It was the only state from India to find a place in the ranking, which featured global hotspots such as London, and Morioka, Japan. According to the survey report, Kerala is a must-travel place for its beaches, backwaters, cuisine, and age-old cultural traditions, such as the Vaikathashtami festival. Kerala might be one of the most visited places in India, but there are many hidden gems here where you can avoid the crowds. Plan your Kerala trip here.
This will strike a chord for people living in areas which have seen the temperatures drop to low single digits (and below). We are looking at you, Delhi! Craving a beach holiday where we can load up on sun, fresh air and ozone, but do not want to be around crowds? The Indian coastline is vast and full of beaches which are lesser known, and without the pesky crowds. Located along both the east and west coast of India, here are 10 of the best offbeat, leser-known beaches that are perfect for a Republic Day weekend getaway. We have also got you a list of tucked-away beaches that have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag. Blue Flag is one of the world's most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.