Your 20s are your glory days; you have waved goodbye to your troubled teen years, but not yet welcomed the responsible 30s. Youth and energy are on your side and you have the freedom to explore the world. One of the best options to make the most of these carefree days, is to travel. Travel nourishes your soul, refreshes your mind and is bound to fill your heart with joy.
Nowadays, even on a limited budget, you can unearth nature’s best kept secrets, encounter thrilling adventures, or seek solace for your soul. You may be struck by an incurable bout of wanderlust, or you might be looking for a memorable family vacation; you might love travelling solo, or you might be in pursuit of a rejuvenating trip with your best friends. Whatever may be the reason, you need not drift too far. Within India itself, you have a variety of charming getaways where you can enjoy to your heart’s content.
Here’s a list of the choicest holiday spots that are perfect for every 20 something in India.
LADAKH
Ladakh is a land of pristine beauty with a challenging terrain. Adventure, religion, culture, and history- Ladakh provides all this, and more. You can camp across the rusty lands or go for high altitude treks. A lot of travel agencies provide fabulous bike tours across the marvellous landscape. Soak in the beauty of the unexplored territories and the rich flora and fauna. Some top spots to visit here are- Drass Valley, Kargil War Memorial, Pattharsahib Gurudwara, Alchi Monastery, Magnetic Hill, Spituk Monastery, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Tso Lake (of 3 Idiots fame). With the opportunities and thrills that it provides, there is truly no place like Ladakh on Earth.
RANN OF KUTCH
Also known as the Great Rann of Kutch, this miraculous terrain is a seasonal salt marshland situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, about 102 kms from Bhuj, Gujarat. It is one of the largest salt deserts of the world. Its charm lies in its unending expanse of pure white landscape. An experience here consists of delectable local cuisine, handmade handicrafts shopping, picturesque scenery (and magnificent pictures), and a whirlwind romance with the unique culture. This place is also famous for Chir Batti, an unexplained phenomenon of colored lights in the sky occurring on dark nights. The best time to visit would be during the Rann Utsav– an annual festival that showcases the enlightening wonders of Kutch. The footfall every year is more than 2,00,000 visitors from upwards of 20 different countries. So go on, prepare for the most unbelievable trip of your life.
AMRITSAR
Immersed in history and culture, Amritsar brings to you the best of Punjab. The energy and vibe of this place charms you immediately. Home to the Golden Temple, or the Harmandir Sahib, this city is thronged by thousands of visitors round the year. Be ready to be enchanted by the beauty of the Gurudwara, and soak in the serenity and divinity surrounding the shrine. Apart from this, you can visit the Jallianwala Bagh where the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in 1919. One can still see the original holes in the walls where the bullets struck them. The spine- chilling experience of this place is like no other, and should not be missed. In addition, the lowering of the flags ceremony at the India-Pakistan Wagah border is must watch for every Indian. The patriotic fervour, the piety of the temple, the delightful Punjabi food (read butter chicken, butter naan), the langar at the temple, and the fascinating shopping extravaganza- the land of colours and culture awaits you.
ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS
Ditch Goa this time. Plan your holiday to the mesmerising Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These islands are a heavenly experience for anyone who wishes to get the best of his/her beach vacation. The beauty of these islands is enchanting. A perfect tourist attraction, these islands provide a holiday full of adventure, romance, serenity and relaxation- depending on what you seek for yourself. Visit the fascinating light and sound show at the famous Cellular Jail in Port Blair; ferry across the seas to Havelock Island and feel the thrill of adventure water sports like scuba diving and parasailing. If nothing, simply soak up the Sun on the clean, sandy beaches and sip on coconut water or your favourite beer. Must visits here include Radhanagar Beach, Ross Island, Cellular Jail, and Corbyns Cove Beach.
ARUNACHAL PRADESH
A state least explored, Arunachal Pradesh is India’s very own secluded paradise. It is the least commercialised form of tourism in India that you will ever encounter. The journey within this State is adventurous and rocky; it offers the best of the North- East experience, but the accommodation choices and food joints are limited. Nonetheless, it is all worth it. If you are a backpacker, or seek an offbeat adventure, this place is your best bet. Arunachal is rich in culture and heritage. It has soulful monasteries and its beauty remains untouched by the external word. Zero industrialisation in this area has led to its charm remaining intact and original. Feast your eyes on the luscious waterfalls, the meandering rivers, the clear skies and the thick forest cover over the mountainous region. Most of your travel here will be covered by road, so be prepared to enjoy the long rides along landscapes that are a treat to the eyes. Breathtaking views and soul stirring moments- Arunachal is Nature’s very own wonder.
