When the days were normal without the covid fears. During the time of easy and stress removing trips, instead of stress giver. When the road trips were a usual weekend thing. Also, when I followed my happy times everywhere I went. During such a magical moment, I had one sudden weekend break in Nashik which added a magical spark to my life. Nashik turned out absolutely stunning and more than I could imagine.
Skies can be pink
Nashik was my one little pitstop on my long Maharashtra tour. Known for the city of Jyotirlinga and Kumbh for the pilgrims and the ‘wine factory’ for the young party lovers. This city has all. I sensed a ‘mini Bombay effects’ too!!
The Spiritual Morning in Nashik
Triyambakeshwar Mahadev
The reason I admired Nashik way too much could be the kings of weather- monsoon. It beautified the littles lanes of greens. We had a morning start with the darshan (visit) at the ‘Triyambakeshwar Mahadev’, one from the twelve ‘Jyotirlingas’. Jyotirlingas are the most auspicious Shiva temple which is highly visited by Hindu pilgrims. The aura of the temple was magical enough to dive into the positive energies. Though the ‘darshan’ at such auspicious Shiva temple in the holy month of Sawan (month according to the Hindu calendar) is a challenging task. But Shiva gave us that lucky sighting and we could pray in front of the ‘Shivlinga’ without much difficulty. I can still have that incredible sight of the temple in my heart. For me, the energies of the temple holds are more important but we can not ignore the beauty of this temple. It was a beautiful structure standing strong amidst the hills of Western Ghats and neighboring the source of the holy river Godavari. No doubt, the monsoon made the views extraordinary.
Day Drives
Rainy drive scenes
The magic of such pretty weather could be best explored through driving by the lanes surrounding the beauty of Western Ghats. The natural waterfalls all through the way prove the real beauty of nature. The greens not only brightened my eyes but also freshened my soul which still retains in my heart. I have seen many pretty mountains and hills but that Nashik drives make me feel awestruck. I know it was all the magic of the weather. Chai and pakoras added spice to my plate of happiness!
Vineyards Evening at Sula
My love for those pretty bottle decor
Sula Vineyards is the primary visit in Nashik if you love wines. Though the place demanded time of at least a day to see it all, I just had an evening to spend. Only I could feel, what all I missed at this place. So, I would suggest either a full day or a night-stay reserved for it. If you are a party animal, somewhat like me, then the Sula Festival is perfectly our choice for once. Though parties are always ‘on’ there if you have a great group to celebrate on the shots of wine and a lot many different drinks on trials. Other than the bottles of wine, the vineyards are the perfect example of how we grow amidst nature. Place confidently celebrates and presents itself with all the interior telling you about wines and history. Learn to drink in a better way here! Also, don’t forget to shop for some souvenirs for your favorite people. It could be the perfect gift, I assure you.
Sum-up of my one good day!
Though it was short Nashik for me but more than I could expect. I cannot deny the fact that the city was way more perfect than I thought it to be. Maybe the reason was the perfect company I got to take me along their hometown with such enthusiasm. Also, the fun-loving people, I could cherish all my life.
With those Nashik wale
Nashik had a blend of all. Be it the motivation, we require to start our day better. Or the loudest nights to end it on the best beats of music.
Bangalore has become a metro-cum-workstation city lately. Many workaholics are busy working there and sometimes looking up for a trip as for break nearby to relax. Short trips aka weekend trips are like our best friends. Takes us away from all our problems. Gives us a happy break. Makes us feel good again. Lets us forget all our problems and never too far from us. Just a plan and bookings away..!! Your bff might ditch you on your trip but trips won’t ever ditch you with awesomeness.
So, heere we have come up with sorted list for you hard-working travelers to add some magic amidst your life and jobs:
1. Ooty
Distance from Bangalore: 297 km
Drive Time: 7 hours 30 minutes approx.
Dreamy Stays in Ooty
A relaxing half day drive and you reach in the laps of ‘Queen of Hills’. Making its place in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it is an actual paradise. Lakes, gardens, viewpoints, tea and coffee plantations, all count to the charm of this little town. But the most affluent attraction of Ooty is the toy train route. Experience the beauty of mesmerizing wooden huts of the hills through the tiny colorful windows of the toy trains and get lost in its magic.
2. Kabini
Distance from Bangalore: 206 km
Drive Time: 5 hours approx.
Wildlife Scenes at Kabini
This pretty place is a must for the wildlife enthusiast. Kabini Forest Reserve and Nagarhole National Park gives you all the perks of rich flora and fauna. Sight Bengal tigers, golden jackal, Indian bison and many more on your jeep safari. Swing with the chirping rare birds on a boat ride in river Kabini or opt for a coracle ride accompanying the locals of nature. Take an elephant safari in the deep wooden jungles or just sip a fresh cup of coffee amidst the delightful nature. What else a weekend trip asks for??
3. Chikmagalur
Distance from Bangalore: 243 km
Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes approx.
Tranquil Nature of Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is perfect stop for the coffee lovers. Known to be as the capital of coffee plantations, it lives with the aroma of coffee. Though the town has something to offer for almost every kind of traveler. This pleasant hill station serves all adventures- caving, trekking, rafting and so on. Experiences doesn’t stop here, you can also go for your love for flora and fauna through the wildlife sanctuaries of Chikmagalur. Apart from all such experiences it has the tranquil peace which you search coming out from the hustle-bustle of your city Bangalore.
4. Bheemeshwari
Distance from Bangalore: 104 km
Drive Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes approx.
Adventure Trip
Residing beside the Cauvery river, this little town has all the water- based adventure. From fishing to kayaking, rafting to boating or the traditional coracle ride choose any of these and show your type of love to the water nature. May be just lie beside the river on a camp night and gaze the pretty stars or sing and dance with your group on a bonfire with some lip-smacking local cuisines and start your day around with a perfect sunrise walk. Bheemeshwari has great options of fishing resorts and camping to make your weekend a perfect service. Also, outskirts of Bangalore can always surprise you with the wildlife sighting due to rich flora and fauna it has!!
5. B.R. Hills
Distance from Bangalore: 173.2 km
Drive Time: 4 hours approx.
Views from B.R. Hills
The Biligiri Ranga hills or commonly known as B.R. Hills is a nature’s delight with the confluence of both western and eastern ghats resulting in diverse ecosystem. The hilltop is named on the famous temple Biligira Rangaswamy residing here. It is the most common weekend hotspot for the people of Bangalore. Visit the place to spot the Dodda Sampige Mara, the big, holy Champak Tree which is known to be as more than 2000 years old.
6. Mysore
Distance from Bangalore: 143.6 km
Drive Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes approx.
Rich History at Mysore Palace
Mysuru or Mysore is architecturally and culturally rich city along with the yoga place of the country. This city has too much to tell the travelers who are interested in culture, architecture, yoga, food-hopping and lots of shopping. Pridely flaunting its glittering Mysore Palace which is the most important sight-seeing treasure of the city. It has alot apart from this. Mysuru is also famous for its Dussehra celebration which attracts tourists from around the world. This can be your perfect weekend stop to attract peace from its different style of yoga and together enjoy its other beauty.
7. Wayanad
Distance from Bangalore: 271.2 km
Drive Time: 6 hours approx.
Bamboo Rafting
Wayanad has been a favourite place amongst tourists for long years. If cave adventure is your type of interest, then this little town is a perfect go for you. Adding to other adventure activities such as trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, mountaineering and many more. Most beautiful Chembra Peak Trek has its way from here. Make up for it, if you are fond of nature treks and have extra days in hand. Wayanad offers pretty wildlife scenes, rich in flora and fauna with a perfect touch of soothing weather. You can spot asiatic elephants, tigers, leopards and lots of beautiful birds chirping in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to amuse you. Other than this, also try bamboo rafting here for a different but amazing experience from the normal rafting. Also, take a visit to the Asia’s second largest earth dam, Banasura Sagar Dam. Adding upto this, Wayanad also have beautiful temples too, for the spiritual, pligrimage tours. Does this place leaves any reason to not visit it?
8. Hogenakkal Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 126.6 km
Drive Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes approx.
Thundering Falls
Commonly known as the ‘Niagara Falls of South India’ is the most budgeted weekend trip from Bangalore. Lying on the Kaveri River, Hogenakkal is an ultimate stop for nature lovers. Feel the thunder of the water here with some scrumptious seafood. Also, try coracle ride amidst the waterfalls to give you another experience of adventure. Apart from all the fun, Hogenakkal is the perfect weekend spot as it also has good local oil-massagers for the best relaxing short vacay.
9. Kudremukh Trek
Distance from Bangalore: 310 km
Drive Time: 6 hours and 30 minutes approx.
Misty Fog on the Way
For all the nature and trek lovers, steps to Kudremukh Peak is not difficult. Changing scenery with every steps will keep you amaze throughout the trek. This is the reason, the trek seems neither difficult nor long. Magic of western ghats can be perfectly felt on the way with cascading waterfalls, beautiful streams and lush, green forests. Not only these, peaceful chirping of birds will motivate you to walk the heights easily. The picturesque view on the top with chilly, windy waves will make it worth all the hardships you faced. The tiredness and dullness of Bangalore will all brush out with the tiredness of Kudremukh trail. Also, read out the Kudremukh experience of one of our writer, before planning yours- Trek to Kudremukh, A tale of rains and leeches.
10. Nandi Hills
Distance from Bangalore: 61 km
Drive Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes approx.
Dreamy Walk Paths
Nandi Hills is a mixture of fun for history buffs and adventure lovers altogether. Majorly known for the hill fortress of Tipu Sultan for their summer retreat, this little hill station offers the same retreat presently too. It is the shortest break you can take from Bangalore with adequate fun. Visit the famous Nandi Temple and other historical remnants of fort and various temples. Enjoy cycling and paragliding amidst the clouds. Take a peaceful walk wondering the beauty this little town holds. Also, take vineyard trip on the way to sip some amazing wines.
11. Coorg
Distance from Bangalore: 242 km
Drive Time: 6 hours approx.
Homestays at Coorg
Coorg has been the most breath-taking beautiful hill station of Karnataka. Known to be the ‘Scotland of India’ because of the exotic landscapes and misty scenic views. It is a heaven for the couples. Coorg is a coffee plantation town, a hub for coffee-lovers. Also, an admiring place for the culture lover with a local clan of Kodavas. Try homestays here for they are the lovely hospitality provider. No place near Bangalore will leave adventure, being amidst the nature. Hiking, rafting, trekking will be your companion here too with the best of views and weather.
Though Bangalore has very magnificent nearby places. The list is long. But we sorted a few which had less driving time, so that you take less time to travel and more time to chillax.
Also check, weekend trips near Delhi, if you have a group of friends there and join them to cheer their days.
Professional Travel Blogger and founder of The Ghumakkads. Bhawna Mohinani is graduate in Mass Communication & Postgraduate in Travel and Tourism Management.
