getaways with your gang
PUDUCHERRY, Tamil Nadu
A French colonial settlement until 1954, Pondicherry (renamed Puducherry) is a fascinating Union Territory bordering the Bay of Bengal. Featuring distinctive French and Tamil quarters, the town’s diversified character is reflected in its architecture and cuisine. On one hand is a cobbled seafront boulevard dotted with vegan restaurants, while on the other is a bustling South Indian market flanked by hole-in-the wall eateries serving regional cuisine. With gorgeous beaches, artisanal boutiques, and a youthful vibe, it is the ideal place for a fun vacation with friends. The attractions include The Sacred Heart Basilica ( sacredheartbasilica.org), Puducherry Museum, Promenade Beach, and Paradise Beach.
GETTING THERE Puducherry is 149 km from Chennai International Airport, which is well-connected to major Indian cities as well as some international ones. STAY Le Dupleix is a French-style heritage hotel located in the heart of Puducherry (starts from ` 4,500/USD62; ledupleix.com).
he port city of Kochi offers an unhurried tropical holiday. Discover the region’s unique Chinese-fishing-net culture, Malabar-style luncheons, heritage walks, cutting-edge art, and beautiful sunsets on a trip with your friends. The traditional side of the city comes across vividly in places like Mattancherry, where an eponymous palace showcases the Kerala style of architecture interspersed with colonial influences. The city is also home to many artsy cafes. If you fancy birding,
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary makes for a wonderful excursion.
GETTING THERE The Cochin International Airport is one of the major airports in the country that offers domestic as well as international connectivity in good measure. STAY A heritage waterfront hotel like Brunton Boatyard by CGH Earth is the way to go in a city like Kochi (price on request; cghearth.com).
LONAVALA, Maharashtra
A road trip from Mumbai to Lonavala is popular for good reason. Lonavala is blessed with a cool climate through the year. With plenty of caves, dams, and greenery at your disposal, it’s perfect for a weekend with friends. Explore the region’s Buddhist history with a visit to the Karla and Bhaja caves; hike to the Tiger’s Leap for a panoramic view of the valley; camp beside Bhushi Dam on Indrayani River; go paragliding in Aamby Valley; catch a sunset from the rugged Lohagad Fort; and discover the wealth of waterfalls in this part of the Western Ghats.
GETTING THERE Lonavala is a pleasant 84-kilometre drive from Mumbai. The city of Mumbai is well-connected internationally as well as to the rest of India by road, rail, and air.
STAY The Machan is a modern nature resort offering accommodation in luxurious tree houses (starts from ` 13,000/USD177; themachan.com).
SPITI VALLEY, Himachal Pradesh
Rugged, offbeat, and mystical, Spiti Valley is a must-visit if your squad of travellers have a penchant for adventure and are fascinated with Buddhist culture. It is a remote Trans-Himalayan valley accessible only by road, with the nearest airport being in the district of Kullu, 227 kilometres away. With rocky mountain passes and hairpin bends, the road trip to Spiti is awe-inspiring. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the valley by visiting the monastery and high-altitude lake in the village of Dhankar; the village of Hikkim, which is home to the highest post office in the world; and the iconic Ki Gompa, which looks over the town of Kaza.
GETTING THERE Fly down to the Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar, a domestic airport well-connected to major Indian cities. Spiti is 227 km from the airport; hit the road via the newly built Atal Tunnel.
STAY Base yourselves in Spiti Village Resort, featuring unique luxurious mud cottages in Kaza ( starts from ` 7,500/USD102 per night; spitivillageresort.com).
A British- era hill station that is known for its literary charm, cosy cafes, and quaint vibe, Landour is ideal for laid-back quality time with your closest pals. The town offers humble experiences such as soulful food at a club of four shops called Char Dukan; stories from author Ruskin Bond’s childhood at his picture-postcard home called Ivy Cottage; ageing countryside manors and cathedrals. Trek to Nag Tibba, which offers picturesque views of Himalayan ranges, pick up a slice of creamy blueberry cheesecake from the legendary Landour Bakehouse, or just sit in the wilderness and spot pheasants, deers, martens, and more. Landour is often clubbed with a trip to its popular sister town Mussoorie, but even on its own, it makes for a memorable vacation.
GETTING THERE Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 62 km away, is the nearest, and offers good connectivity to major Indian cities. STAY Rokeby Manor offers quaint English country style rooms (starts from ` 16,100/USD221; rokebymanor.com).