Age has no barrier when it comes to travel; it is so true! And travelling is something that leaves you speechless and then turns into a storyteller. For all the unware people, 25th January marks as National Tourism Day with the purpose to raise awareness of the importance of tourism. To celebrate this day we got in touch with Bangalore-based travel blogger and photographer Riddhi Debh who shared magnificent places in India that you should add to your 2020 travel bucket list. Scroll down and start making plans for your first vacay of 2020!
1. Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh
If you are a hill person, Chitkul will not disappoint you! One of the last villages in the Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is a small village with less than 1000 people during the summer months. But, during the winter months, the place turns into a winter wonderland filled with snow and temperature touching -15 degree celsius. Once you are here, you can go for a day trip to Sangla or can relax in the basic homestays with basic amenities. Don’t forget to take a walk around the area and spend some time by the gorgeous looking Baspa river.
2. Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh
Known as the holy place in our country, Varanasi is much more than that. One of the most surreal things to do here is taking a boat ride during the sunrise, sitting by the ghats as the life by the Ganges river unfolds. Varanasi is buzzing with people, cafes, local snacks shops, foreigners and, this place is an assault to the senses in the most positive way. One of the perfect time to plan a vacation here is during Diwali as the ghats become the prettiest, decorated with zillions of lamps.
3. Palolem in Goa
We are sure you will agree with us, Goa is one of the best destinations in India? Goa is go-to-place for every party-lovers around the world. One of the hidden gems in Goa is Palolem, 90 minutes to the South Goa from the Dabolim airport. Rejuvenation is an obvious outcome here because of the calmness, unknown roads to explore and shacks with delicious food. Once you land in here, do visit the butterfly cove and Sundowner restaurant, you will love it!
4. Jog Falls in Karnataka
South is gorgeous on its own! India’s second-highest plunge waterfall, Jog falls, is a magnificent view to experience, especially during the monsoon months. All the adventure seekers, you can enjoy kayaking, trekking and bird watching. Also, you can enjoy homely food back in the lodges with your loved ones and just watching the magnificent falls.
5. Kottayam in Kerala
Kerala’s backwater is no more a secret! How about waking up to fabulous sunrise? Head to Kumarakom near the Kottayam city where you can take a boat-stroll through the canals or can just read a book basking in the sun. This is much quieter than the popular Alleppey. One of the hidden gems is the bird sanctuary. You can also visit Malarikkal to have a coracle ride among the water lilies. Find a homestay to relax and have hog on to the delicious Kerala food.
6. Chidiya Tapu in Andaman
The Andaman Islands is one of the most deserved destinations in India! Explore the corals, white sands and the changing colours of the waters. You will be in for the most beautiful sunset of your life while having tea or coffee at the roadside shop and watching locals take traditional boats to go home to another island. Chidiya Tapu is one of the fantastic places to watch the sun go down over the horizon!
7. Maidan and River Ghats in Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata is not an offbeat place but demands your visit this year! Dedicate your winter mornings to the Maidan area in Kolkata. The largest urban park, in the middle of the city during winter mornings turns to be the most mystical place, with fog creating a cinematic atmosphere. In the afternoon you can visit the ghats by the river Hooghly! And talking about the food it is just unmissable!
8. Vagamon in Kerala
Vagamon is a hidden paradise in the Idduki district of Kerala. While people flock to Munnar for its beautiful landscape but Vagamon is equally gorgeous. Once in Vagamon, you can find yourself hiking in the unknown hills, doing the windy trek, paragliding or off-roading. You can plan your vacation to Vagamon throughout the year!
