When I was little, holidays meant road trips. I was a child struck by wanderlust, and with my head pressed against the window, I would gaze at the world going by. I seldom wanted to know where we were going, as long as the car kept moving. I was drawn by it all, whether it was the winding, snow-laced roads to Scotland or the picturesque dazzling waters that lapped at the Gokarna shoreline. And so, I’ve put together a list of road trips that are gold in my book. I’ve covered three of them, and have 2 to go. Let me know if you cover them before I do! Pune to Tarkarli (March 2012):Route: Pune – Satara – Karad – Kolhapur – Kankavali – TarkarliDistance: 545km Tarkarli is one of the most untouched, virgin coastal destinations in India. From the delectable seafood dishes to the unblemished, starlit sky, Tarkarli is a rustic little paradise. It offers a little bit for everyone; from the glorious remains of the Sindudurg Fort to scuba diving and snorkeling, it appeals to a wide spectrum of travellers. And when the belly beckons, a host of seaside shacks will serve you traditional homemade delicacies like Malwani Wada with Sol Kadi and Fish Curry. It’s best to visit Tarkarli in the winter, when the sun will be soft and the sky, a radiant blue. Hyderabad to Kannur (this year for sure!):Route: Hyderabad – Kurnool – Anantpur – Penukonda – Bagepalli – Dibbur – Devanahalli – Ramanagara – Channapatna – Mandya – Kesare – Gunsur – Gonnikuppal – Iritty – KunnurDistance: 892km Hyderabad to Kunnur is like cruising on an expansive bed of green. The looming trees arc inwards, forming an abundant canopy so that when you open your windows a crack, the fragrant forest air wafts in to soothe your senses. Kannur is a wonderful getaway that hosts private beaches and swaying palm trees. It is an ideal destination to unwind on a long weekend or extended holiday! Delhi to Leh (I’ve done Leh, but I’d love to go there again via road):Route: Delhi – Sonipat – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Ambala – Kharar – Rupnagar – Barmana – Mandi – Manali – Keylong – Zing Zing Bar – Pang – Rumtse – LehDistance: 1000km Leh is a happy cloud of open-air cafes, homely guest houses and fresh fruit laden trees. The journey from Delhi to Leh is supposed to be mesmerizing, and passes through snow-capped mountains, deep brown valleys, and soft snowfall. Definitely recommended during the summer months, I’m told! |
AuthorHey Travellers! Vaishnavi
Having been brought up across 7 cities and 2 continents, she considered herself the quintessential gypsy growing up. When she was 21, she made herself a bucket list to cover 100 countries before she dies. She is 31 down, with 69 more to go. ArchivesCategories |