October 7, 2018

8 Alternative Destinations In India For Your ‘December’ Break

Where should you travel in December? I think it’s time to ditch all the popular, sought after destinations in India, and look for some cool alternatives for your annual break. December is a frenzied month. From winding up your work backlog to shopping, festivities to travelling, there’s a lot happening in this crazy month. So, if you haven’t planned your travel for December yet, let me sprinkle some inspiration.

Also read: 10 Most Photographable Places In India

There are many beautiful places in India that are not too crowded in December. All you need to do is research a little bit more in terms of accommodation. Also, you need to figure out what kind of break you are looking for. If you are someone who likes morning nature hikes, riverside picnics, lazy afternoons and romantic sunsets, this post is for you!

8 Alternative Destinations In India For Your ‘December’ Break –

Paduvari

If you can’t do without beaches, but would like to escape the crowds, Paduvari is your refuge. In fact, the beaches of Coastal Karnataka are absolutely clean and exceptionally scenic. Besides its coastal charms, Paduvari has a peaceful countryside, the exhilarating backwaters, charming fishermen colonies, and some ancient temples to pique your curiosity.

Location: Paduvari is a small town in Byndoor city, Udupi district in Karnataka.

How to reach: Around 3 hours from Mangaluru International Airport.

Accommodation: Sai Vishram Beach Resort – It’s a beach-side resort, where I have enjoyed an excellent hospitality, great food, culture and coastal serenity.

Check hotels and prices on Booking.com, the easiest way to book. I make all my accommodation bookings through Booking.com because I usually get the best rates here and I pay later at the property.

Dandeli

Dandeli is quite popular in Karnataka, but it’s still not on people’s radar in North India, or anywhere else for that matter. It’s a destination for adventure seekers – white river rafting, rappelling, Kayaking, Jungle safari, bird watching and nature hikes.

Location: Dandeli is a City in North Karnataka, in the Western Ghats region.

How to reach: Overnight train from Bangalore to Alnavar. It’s an hour drive from Alnavar to Dandeli.

Accommodation: Bison River Resort – It’s a riverside resort with lots of adventure activities to do. Check prices on Booking.com

Kovalam

Kovalam is a lovely beach town beset with coconut trees. There’s also a beautiful Lighthouse, which just adds to the charm of the beach and the surroundings.

Location: Kovalam is in Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala.

How to reach: Take an auto/taxi from Trivandrum station for Kovalam Junction.

Also read: Solo Female Travel In Kerala – Is It Safe?

Accommodation: Amrutham Ayurvedic Village Resort – I enjoyed staying in the midst of nature, relaxing spa treatments, practising yoga and having delicious meals. Check prices on Booking.com

Konark

Konark is both a coastal and a heritage town. You can have your fill of ‘beach’ time as well as marvel at some historic wonders, such as Konark Sun Temple and Ramachandi temple.

Location: Konark is a town in the Puri district in Odisha.

How to reach: Konark is 61.6 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport.

Also read: My Favorite Experiences In Odisha

Accommodation: Lotus Eco Resort Konark – a beautiful beachside resort. I have enjoyed a breezy, ‘do-nothing’ stay here. Check prices on Booking.com

Mandvi

Mandvi can be your offbeat ‘beach’ escape. The unique thing about vacationing in Mandvi would be savouring the coastal vibes along with culture and history of the place. Visiting Vijaya Vilas Palace is an absolute romantic and a regal experience. Movies like Lagaan and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam were shot at the palace.

Location: Mandvi is a town in the Kutch district in Gujarat.

How to reach: Mandvi is 62 km from the Bhuj Airport.

Also read: Kutch Travel Guide – Top 5 Experiences

Accommodation: Serena Beach Resort – perhaps the best place in Mandvi to stay near the beach. Check prices on Booking.com

Hampi

Although Hampi is loved by foreign tourists, it’s still a hidden gem for Indians. It’s one of my favourite destinations in India. It’s a UNESCO recognised heritage village, which has several 800-900 year old temple complexes. But, that’s just one part of it. Hampi is a place of absolutely insane sunsets!