We know that you will have already done this math. But, just in case you have not, allow us to tell you a secret. If you can sneak in a leave next Monday, you will be getting four days of holidays this Independence Day weekend. And that will give you enough time for a quick getaway. Here are five experiences from which you can choose. Each is unique. And trust us, they will not burn a hole in your pocket.
The need for speed
This is exclusively for those who love the adrenaline rush and do not mind the crowd. Log out of work on Friday, make a beeline to Alappuzha. Check into one of the hotels or houseboats and watch the Nehru Trophy Boat Race on Saturday. And then, once the race is done, and the excitement dies down, go on a cruise along Punnamada and Kainakary. Hit the beaches. Explore the various ancient places of worship.
The mist clad high ranges
If you do not like excitement and want your holiday to be quiet, head to the high ranges of Idukki or Wayanad. A ride up the hill to Munnar or Thekkady is an experience in itself. With the monsoon in full swing, it makes for a relaxing ride. The destinations like Vagamon, Thekkady, and Munnar in Idukki and Kalpetta and Sultan Battery in Wayanad offer a visual treat that will allow you to detox for a couple of days. And if you find the right homestays, it will be economical too.
Plan a trek and camp out
This again is for those who love adventures and do not mind getting wet or bitten by leeches. Go trekking to Enthayar, or through the forest of Chimmony. Go camping to Gavi or to Thovaanam. The options, if you look for them, are endless.
For the devout
The month of Karkidakam is also time for the Nalambala Darshanam. There are two circuits that are famous. The one in Thrissur covers the Rama temple at Thriprayar, the Bharata temple at Koodalmanikyam, the Lakshmana temple at Moozhikulam and the Shatrugna temple at Payyammal. The comparitively less famous Nalambala Darshanam around Ramapuram in Kottayam is worth a visit too. These are trips your parents will enjoy. There are other ancient places of worship near around.
Bitten by the travel bug
Does the trip matter more than the destination? This option is yours. Go on a drive from Neriyamangalam to Munnar and take in the beauty of the waterfalls cascading down the hills at regular intervals. You can also drive through Athirappilly, Charpa and Vazhachal for another combination of sights and sounds. There are some beautiful forests routes and waterfalls in Kannur too.
So, what are you waiting for? Put in your leave application, pack your bags, make your reservations and just leave on the trip that suits your temperament. You can tell us about your experience when you get back.
Read more: Travel | Travel News | Beyond Kerala
