Nothing spells intimacy better than a romantic sojourn with your partner, away from life’s mundane. And when it is to a destination away from the crowds, the holiday is even better! If you’re looking to rekindle the romance, plan your next #IntimateTravel vacation at these offbeat destinations in India. By Bayar Jain
Offbeat Destinations In India
1. Andretta, Himachal Pradesh
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Located a short distance away from the famous Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh’s Andretta is a gem hidden in plain sight. Complete with hill views and whiffs of heavenly teas, this quaint town is designed for creative couples. Established in 1920s by an Irish theatre artiste and environmentalist, Norah Richards, this artists’ colony breathes art in all its forms. When here, you and your partner can get your hands dirty by creating your own pottery; getting in touch with your artsy side by gazing at sculptures, posters and photographs at Sobha Singh Art Gallery; venturing into the unknown by trekking through the Thampsar trek; and enjoying a romantic picnic at sundown at Neugal Khad, a serene Himalayan stream offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range.
2. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
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Smack-dab in the heart of the country, Pachmarhi is Madhya Pradesh’s only hill station. Also known as Satpura ki Rani (or Queen of Satpura), this elevated destination is a treasure trove of Buddhist ancient caves married with cascading waterfalls. Painted with mythological significance (it is believed that the Pandavas from the Hindu epic Mahabharata chose to reside here during their exile) and immense flora, this quiet retreat is ideal to reignite the bond between you and your partner. Think a quick dip in the Bee Falls and Rajat Pratap Waterfalls; or a picnic amid lush greens at the Priyadarshini Point (or Forsyth Point). The Cave Shelters create the ideal ambience for an intimate adventure, while the Dhoopgarh sunset point showcases mesmerising oranges hues.
3. Umiam, Meghalaya
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What could be more romantic than spending a few days alone at a secluded island? Literally translating to ‘waters of tears’ in Khasi, Meghalaya’s Umiam is a large man-made lake surrounded by coniferous trees on all sides. Often compared to the lakes of Scotland, this clear-blue waterbody has kayaking, water cycling, boating and scooting facilities near its shores. Alternatively, explore the diverse fauna of the Lum Nehru Park, a beautiful garden located on the shores of the lake. However, Umiam’s true charms reside in gazing at the green Khasi hills rolling into the emerald-blue waters as the cool breeze gently kisses your face.
4. Honnavar, Karnataka
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A coastal paradise located on the northern side of Karnataka, Honnavar ticks all the right boxes for a couple with varied interests. Despite being around since the reigns of royalty, today the coastal town has fused together village life with modernity, all without compromising on natural beauty. Begin your day at the Kasarakod Beach where you and your partner can wash your worries into the sea, and bathe under the dreamy Apsarakonda Waterfalls. Next, meander through the Mavinakurve village—complete with colourful thatch-roofed houses and lush greens—and make your way to the Sharavati river for kayaking through backwaters. For an added dose of #IntimateTravel vibes, head to the Basavaraja Durga Island where countless waterfalls and temples await.
5. Jhalawar, Rajasthan
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Suited for couples looking for a quintessentially Rajasthani experience away from the crowds, Jhalawar offers the ideal mix of traditions, history, culture and nature. Once known as Brijnagar, this place has many forts and palaces dating to the Rajput and Mughal periods, each draped in colourful red poppy fields and orange orchards. Take the Gagron Fort, for instance; surrounded by the calm waters of Ahu, Kali and Sindh rivers on three sides, this fort has made its way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The Chandrabhaga Temple, the Sun Temple, Unhel Jain Temple, and Buddhist caves and stupas are some of the other gems here.
Related: Things To Keep In Mind While Planning Your Next #IntimateTravel Vacation
