Your International Vacay In India

Island hopping in Greece, visiting the Gothic castles of Scotland, wine tasting in Tuscany or getting a tan beach-bumming in Bali are amongst some of the experiences that make it to nearly every traveler's bucket list -  but taking that trip is not always possible.

Don't fret, your international vacay doesn't have to be just #TravelGoals anymore because we have curated a list of holidays you can take in India that could truly be mistaken for international locales. If this doesn't stir your wanderlust, we don't know what will!

1) Wild Mahseer, Balipara, Assam

(Reminiscent of Cameron Islands, Malayasia)

Wild Mahseer is a unique heritage stay spread across 22 acre tea plantation estate. They have 5 bungalows, including one exclusive Heritage Bungalow that is 108 year old and 4 cozy tea bungalows which are named after different process of tea procurement. This retreat is undoubtedly a haven for all the tea lovers- perfectly depicting the blend of old-world charm and modern-day luxury. Spend your days in the tea plantation and factory, driving through tea gardens dotted with shade trees where, in season, the work force (typically women in Assam) dressed in vivid saris patrol the rows of bushes plucking the tea. Don’t forget to head out on an elephant safari while here. Also, a visit to the ‘Eastern Himalayan Botanical Ark’ is a must!

2) Royal Heritage Tripura Castle, Shillong, Meghalaya

(Reminiscent of Scotland)

Built in the early 1920s, Tripura Castle was the summer home for the Royal Family of the Manikya dynasty. It is an extension of the Royal Residence and is overseen by the current head of the dynasty. It is nestled atop a hill and spread over 9 acres of greenery. It reflects the ambience of a Heritage Home through the warm wood interiors, brass fireplaces and art deco furniture. Although the Castle does not resemble a ‘castle’ in the British or European sense of the term, it does reflect the regality of a royal home – from its marvelous collection of historical memorabilia, manicured gardens, an underground bomb shelter and tunnel opening out into the rose gardens dating back to World War II, to the old world charm the place exudes. One is immediately taken back to the quiet grace of a by-gone era.

3) Kurumba Village Resort, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

(Reminiscent of the Amazon Forest)

The Kurumba Village Resort is a rare aromatic arena and the invigoratingly clean air here has to be breathed to be believed! The resort 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. Indulge in Ayurshala, the 5000 year old system of healing that is used here. One can even partake in series of authentic therapies which helps to strengthens tissues, stimulates blood circulation, encourage weight loss, removes cellulite, reduces pain and a lot more. It's off-trail, unspoilt, luxurious and in sync with nature where your days seem to slip away like birds in flight.

4) Soma Vine Village, Nashik, Maharashtra

(Reminiscent of Tuscany)

The Soma Vine Village is located along the edge of the backwaters of Gangapur Dam and is a refuge from the stress of city life. Take a dip in the vineyard pool, go the for a laid-back bicycle ride on the winding country roads, soak up the peaceful view and enjoy delicious food while sipping Soma wines.The haven brings forth the opportunity to partake in India’s first boutique winery’s guided tour in which the Sommelier teaches us about the processes of making Whites, Reds, Rosé as well as sparkling wines (method champanoise), followed by wine tasting session in which they provide an expert training upon techniques of tasting a wine.

5) Havelock Island Beach Resort, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(Reminiscent of Ko Phi Phi)

The Havelock Island Beach Resort embraces the spirituality of the lush green forest and the beach surrounding it. It features a collection of well designed beach facing suite cottages. Ofcourse a trip to the Andaman Islands is always incomplete if you haven’t partaken in leisure activities like water sports and this beach resort allows you to enhance your trip by enjoying the vast marine life of Havelock through scuba diving. Whether it’s a family holiday or a honeymoon, Havelock Island Beach Resort is a memorable getaway.

So, which 'international' destination will you choose as your next escape?