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    Scenic encounters, tranquil waters: Here's where to head for a weekend getaway this monsoon

    Synopsis

    Monsoon showers transform most tourist spots into quiet, green retreats covered with mist and fog

    AmboliAdAge
    Amboli is an underrated hill station which presents a number of opportunities for monsoon trails.
    FROM AHMEDABAD & MUMBAI: AMBOLI
    Situated on the southern ranges of the Sahyadris at a height of 2,265 ft, this sylvan precinct is the last mountain resort along the western coast before the Sahyadris give way to beaches. With gently rolling knolls and dense vegetation, Amboli is mesmerising in the rains. In summers, the slopes with their multi-hued flora are a popular trekking destination with the forts of Manohargad and Mansantoshgad located in proximity.

    Monsoon showers transform this busy tourist spot into a quiet, green retreat covered with mist and fog. The aroma of fresh, wet earth, the cool monsoon breeze, a panoramic view of the lush Konkan plains and the glistening sea are sure to leave your mind and body rejuvenated. Walk to the bank of river Hiranyakeshi and watch the waters gush over rocks and pebbles. A few metres away are the Nangardas Falls, frothy and gushing in their monsoon glory.

    UPCOMING HOLIDAYS IN AUGUST 2019
    - Monday, August 12, 2019 — Id-ul-Juha (Bakri Eid)
    - Thursday, August 15, 2019 — Independence Day/ Raksha Bandhan

    FROM BENGALURU: UPPER BHAVANI LAKE, OOTY
    Ooty, a frequently visited hill station in the Nilgiri Mountain Range, renowned for its breathtaking landscape with towering Eucalyptus Trees and green slopes. Most attractions of Ooty are crowd pullers. Hence, it is recommended to drive out of the throbbing town towards the thick forests to get to the magnificent lakes. The neighbourhood of Ooty conceals over 12 lakes. You can club your visit to the well -frequented artificial Ooty Lake with a trip to the lesser known Emerald Lake, Upper Bhavani Lake, Avalanche Lake, Pykara Lake or Kamaraj Sagar Lake. Each of these water bodies has its own unique properties.

    OotyAgencies
    A glimpse of a scenic waterbody during the journey towards the lake.


    Located about 60 kms from Ooty, the azure-blue Upper Bhavani Lake, wrapped by Nilgiris and lush slopes, make for a rejuvenating spot. A day-long circuit to Upper Bhavani also includes Lakkdi Lake, Emerald Dam, Avalanche Dam (back waters of Upper Bhavani Dam), which can be visited en route. At the Upper Bhavani Lake, you can go boating or horse riding. This is a haven for those with a keen eye in photography. A visit to this lake requires a permit from the Forest Ranger so plan ahead.

    FROM CHENNAI: TIRUPATTUR AND YELAGIRI, TAMIL NADU
    Tirupattur is a town located in Vellore District, which is perhaps one of the oldest temple towns in Tamil Nadu. Situated over 40 km from Krishnagiri, and 125 km from Bangalore, making it a nice weekend getaway. A quiet spot, the town has mainly small-scale industries and mills. History has it that this town was a revenue subdivision during British raj and remains so.

    Temple1Agencies
    Brahmapureeswarar Temple at Tirupattur.


    Popularly known for the Old Shiva, Vishnu temples and Tanks (Big Tank and Small Tank) built during the Hoysala Dynasty, it is also well-connected by the rail network with other important cities of Tamil Nadu such as Thiruvannamalai and Chennai. Visit the Brahmapureeswarar Temple, an ancient shrine of Lord Brahma. The temple is immensely renowned as it is one of the few dedicated to Lord Brahma - the creator of mankind. It is widely believed that this is one temple that can change your destiny.

    After seeking blessing at the temple, head to the nearby Yelagiri, a hill-station nearby. The Jalagamparai Falls, lurking amidst dense greenery, cascades in full splendour. Punganoor Lake, an artificial Lake located in the centre of the Yelagiri Hills makes for a fun day picnic. The spot is perfect for a family getaway with a fountain in the middle with boating facilities.

    The Tip: Make sure to sample the simple thali with Tamilian cuisine.

    FROM DELHI: HAR KI DOON, GARHWAL
    The Har ki Doon is a perfect circuit for those beginning their trekking stint in the Himalayas. Nestled at the base of Fateh Parvat at 3556m, the cradle shaped Har ki Doon valley is considered most visited. On an average, the 47km route takes about seven days. The path upwards meanders through the beautiful alpine meadows, ridges, glacier basins and dense coniferous forests.

    DoonAgencies
    Har ki Doon is a cradle-shaped valley hanging perched in the Garhwal Himalayas.


    The high altitude villages en route, allow insights into traditional Garhwali culture. The first stretch, from Netwar to Osla, passes through dense forests consisting of chestnut, walnut, willow and chinar trees. From Osla to Har ki Doon, sights of terraced mountain fields, lush patches and thick forests await. From Sankri, towards the end of the circuit, the 26km route traverses through steeper terrains and stunning environs with sights of migratory birds disappearing in the snow-peaked mountains. Make sure to take a moment to speak to the villagers; watch out for the Baboons eager to grab any food you’ve got and enjoy the herb-rich black tea.
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