The Ganesh Chaturthi long weekend is coming up (13th September – 16th September) and if you haven’t made any plans – don’t worry, we’ve curated some great getaways for you. Take a day off on the 14th (thank goodness for paid leaves!) and then, you have a really long weekend and a fabulous getaway to look forward to. Our editorial team has picked 5 such places sure to blow your socks off!
1. Kurumba Village Resort, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
The Kurumba Village Resort is a rare aromatic arena and the invigoratingly clean air here has to be breathed to be believed! This retreat has been built artfully in a 10-acre former spice plantation, sculpted into a hill and not a single tree has been harmed in the process. Pluck home-grown fruits and vegetables which the chef will then use to conduct a hands-on tribal cooking class followed by treks to the hills and lunches served atop the mountain. For those looking to unwind, there are a series of authentic therapies as well. It’s off-trail, unspoilt, luxurious and in sync with nature where your days seem to slip away like birds in flight.
2. The Orchard at Peora Estates, Peora, Uttarakhand
Rolling hills, winding roads, pine forests and trees laden with apples, oranges and other fruits surround the quaint village of Peora. The architectural style of The Orchard is that of a farmhouse in Tuscany – tiles and marble imported from Italy adorn the floors of the property, graceful arches and galleries lead you to luxurious guest quarters. Star-gazing here is an experience we highly recommend, if you’re lucky you might spot planets such as Jupiter and Saturn.
3. The Machan, Lonavala, Maharashtra
Located in Jambulne, one of 25 biological hotspots of the world, the tree houses rise 30-45 feet above the forest. The Machan is an island of green unto itself, is 100% off grid and run only on sustainable resources. Guests are encouraged to engage in activities like trekking, stargazing, cycling and visiting surrounding historical sites and after a long day of exciting activities, you can let your worries melt away by pampering yourself with a luxe spa session.
4. Rainforest Athirapally, Pariyaram, Kerala
Tucked right into the lap of nature, this hideaway is set in 7 acres of Sholayar Forest Reserve overlooking the Athirapally waterfalls, the largest waterfalls in Asia. You’re surrounded by nature and if you’re lucky you might spot the many inhabitants of the reserve like malabar pied hornbills, gaurs, sloth bears, Indian leopards and even elephants. The alfresco restaurant dining here is an experience to be savoured and the menu is tailored to your needs but we highly recommend taking the leap and trying some unusual, native delicacies.
5. La Ri Sa, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
This stunning retreat hidden in the mountains, makes for a getaway like none other! Orchards stretch out in seemingly endless waves of apple trees and a bounty of flowers, vegetables, beans, and herbs grow in the garden beyond. The cottages of stone and wood which blend seamlessly into the landscape provide a taste of the simple life in the hills – on the radar for anyone looking to getaway from manic city life.
So where are you planning your long weekend getaway to?
PlushEscapes Editor
Latest posts by PlushEscapes Editor (see all)
- LONG WEEKEND Alert! - August 4, 2022
- We are hot for these retreats, this summer - April 21, 2022
- How about an Isocation? - April 23, 2021