WHAT’S IN, THIS SPRING!

It’s time to bid adieu to those winter blues and welcome the warm and sublime season of spring! And of course, a new season means another reason to embark on a vacay or a short weekend getaway to relax and rejuvenate – so here are 5 destinations that are perfect to enjoy at and bring in the onset of this lovely season!

1) The Blackbuck Lodge, Velavadar, Gujarat

This fantastic lodge is one of the most amazing wildlife resorts of Western India. Sitting comfortably amid the savannah, the superbly appointed cottages offer an opportunity to bask in luxurious wilderness. For wildlife enthusiasts, the lodge provides safaris in customized jeeps with experienced drivers and guides/spotters. The centerpiece of the resort is a water body that has been created like a natural lake with canopied sit-outs, from where one can get close views of birdlife on the edge of the lake.

2) La Ri Sa, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

This boutique resort is inspired from the local language of Lahul. La signifies that which is above, Ri, the mountains, and Sa means the earth. And everything at LaRiSa, high in the mountains, feels like it’s come from the earth, just like its name. Orchards stretch out in seemingly endless waves of apple trees. Cottages of stone and wood blend seamlessly into the landscape. And a bounty of flowers, vegetables, beans and herbs grow in the garden beyond. The basil-scented air tempts everyone, and you find yourself picking vegetables for your next meal even if you’ve just finished one.

3) The Cottage Jeolikot, Nainital, Uttarakhand

Think little cottages with sloping roofs and a fairytale ambience – that’s exactly what this quaint cottage is all about. It has large, airy bedrooms with elegant furnishings and with sitting rooms. One can savour, experience and explore the many attractions of the immediate surroundings or the cottage can also be used as a base camp to visit several areas of the Kumaon Himalayas. The cottage along with its Sylvan serenity is a haven for any traveller’s soul.

4) Neeralaya, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

An escape to the mountains of Himachal is always a beautiful idea. This dream abode provides a genuine way to experience the mountain life of Himachal. Right from its architecture, which is mostly recycled timber and local stones, to its pristine and scenic surroundings, everything about this property hints at eco-friendliness, comfort and enrichment. Just like everything else, the food here is also pure and healthy. One can indulge in outdoor activities such as day hikes, picnics, river rafting and mountain biking. Besides, you can also take a peek into the lives of village folks by visiting the villages and temples around.

5) Mary Budden Estate, Binsar, Uttarakhand 

This one’s a picturesque luxury homestay, located in a cosy corner of the Kumaon in the magnificent middle Himalayan mountains. Relax in a serene setting within the secluded Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. This fully restored heritage home, perched at 8000 ft above sea level is the ideal place to unwind and reconnect with nature. And the best part - it still retains its original charm!

6) The Orchard At Peora Estate, Peora, Uttarakhand

With an architectural style resembling that of a farmhouse in Tuscany, this property is perfect for a romantic getaway. The verandas and balconies are positioned perfectly so that you can take in the panoramic view of the valleys, hills and the majestic Himalayas. Created with Italian sensibility this property goes all out to charm its guests.

So, where are you headed this spring?