2) Trek to Brahmagiri Peak: There’s nothing better than to unwind in the midst of pristine hills with a trek to the Brahmagirir peak. A trek to Brahmagiri can be done either from the Karnataka side near Coorg (252 km from Bangalore) or the Kerala side from Thirunelli (315 km from Bangalore).

The trek starts from Irpu (in Karnataka), a small village well known for the Irpu waterfalls. Coorg has a number of hotels.

3) Rajmachi: Located in the shadows of Lonavla, Rajmachi is a great place to getaway from it all. Trek, explore forts, rappel down the rocks and be prepared for a rustic experience, Rajmachi is the place for soul searching and to connect with oneself. Rajamachi is 120 km from Mumbai and 20 km from Lonavla. Pitch a camp in the fort or in the nearby village Udhewadi, else opt for Captans Resorts (02114-271313) located not too far.

Check out driving directions from Mumbai to Rajmachi

4) Dalhousie: Well known for its cool and salubrious climes, life in Dalhousie moves in slow motion. There are places to see, British-style country houses and old building to explore, pleasant walks to take, and beautiful vistas to enjoy. A complete laidback holiday destination, Dalhousie is 574 km from Delhi and 70 km from Pathankot (nearest railhead). There is no dearth of hotels; HPTDC has Hotel Manimahesh (01899-242155) there.

Check out driving directions from Delhi to Dalhousie

5) Ooty: The quite and serene environment makes Ooty an excellent place for couples and kids to trace the stars in the sky, mug up the history. The hill station boasts of some of the most beautiful lakes, waterfalls and gardens in the area as also some centuries old shrines, churches, cemeteries and colonial style buildings. Check out Ooty as summer holiday destination.

6) Mori: Situated along the banks of the Tons River, it’s a comparatively less travelled part of the hill state of Uttarakhand. Be it for relaxing or for adventure activities, Mori is the right place. Sandy beaches, guided nature-walks, beach activities, bird-watching etc will not only keep you engaged but thoroughly refresh you.

7) Mount Abu: An oasis amidst the arid desert is probably the only place in Rajasthan which can be visited even during hot summers. The scenic vista & it’s legendary past makes it an attractive long weekend option. The season of spring adds glory to the place with its most pleasant weather this time around. Mount Abu is 746 km from Delhi, well connected with road & railhead. There is no dearth of hotels in Mount Abu.

Check out driving directions from Jaipur to Mount Abu

8) Shankarpur: A recently discovered virgin beach near Kolkata offers almost all pleasures of a private beach. Wide unspoilt beaches, casurina groves, the gentle sea and a great climate makes it a charming getaway. It’s 185 km from Kolkata and can be reached by any of the buses plying to Digha. Many a hotels line up the beaches, so stay wouldn’t be a problem.

9) Nepal: One of the most beautiful places that everyone must visit once in a lifetime at least. Nepal is dotted with temples, the calm monasteries, forested hills, tropical jungles, frozen valleys, gushing rivers & the city sights. There’s so much to do & see in Nepal that you need time. It’s equally for the families & the cozy two-some.

10) Gangtok: Gangtok is a small town which offers Scenic beauty, orchids and a fascinating travel experience. Places of tourist interest like Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok and Tashi View Point. It’s a destination that both young and adults enjoy; it is a good mix and has something for everyone. Gangtok may even be a good learning experience on Buddhism.