The festival of Holi is falling on a Thursday, 21 March, this year, making room for a long weekend break. All you need to do is to just apply for a leave on Friday and you are all set for the long weekend getaway.
If you stay in and around the National Capital, here’s a list of places you can explore during the much-needed festival break!
Agra
Major Attractions: Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri
The city which houses Taj Mahal – one of the seven wonders of the world – gives its travellers the option to explore the city’s rich heritage through what is called the Mughal Walk.
In the Mughal Walk, visitors get to explore the monuments rich in architectural heritage, witness handicraft making, and experience the culture of the region through traditional welcome, local folk dance and play.
The Colonial Walk, on the other hand, gives visitors of option to see the city’s colonial architecture and heritage monuments. The walk takes you through the Agra Cantonment, St George's Cathedral, Havelock Memorial Church, St. Mary's Church and some other buildings.
Haridwar
Major Attractions: Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, Bhimgoda Tank
Haridwar is a holy town in the state of Uttarakhand, known for the crystal-clear Ganga water and the lush green forests that add to the scenic beauty of this Land of Gods. The Rajaji National Park, situated just 10 km from Haridwar, is an ideal destination for wildlife and adventure lovers.
The banks on the river Ganga (Ganga ghats) light up with thousands of diyas (lamps) and look extremely beautiful during evenings.
Mussoorie
Major Attractions: Landour Bazaar, Chaar Dukaan, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, the Camel Back cemetery, the Mussoorie Library, Hotel Savoy
Mussoorie, also known as the Queen of the Hills, is a popular hill station situated around 290 km from Delhi. The city, with its snow-capped mountain peaks, offers spectacular view of the Himalayas.
Some of the mighty peaks that offer breathtaking views include Bandar Poonch, Srikantha, the Gangotri group and the Chaukhamba.
Jim Corbett National Park
Major Attractions: Bijrani Safari Zone, Jhirna Safari Zone, Dhikala Zone, Sitabani Buffer Zone and Durga Devi Zone
If you are an animal lover and an adventure seeker, then this national tiger reserve is the place for you!
Spanning over 520 square kilometers, the Jim Corbett National Park area comprises hills, riverine belts, grasslands and a lake. In fact, it is one of those few places in India that allow overnight stays in the lap of the National Park.
The open Jeep safaris and the elephant rides are the major attractions of the park, which shelters tigers and rare species like otters and the endemic fish-eating crocodile.
Mathura & Vrindavan
Major Attractions: Banke Bihari Temple, Barsana, Dwarkadhish Temple, Gokul, Govardhan, Kusum Sarovar, Nandgaon, among others.
Mathura and Vrindavan are famous for their magnificent temples, most of which are dedicated to Lord Krishna. The twin cities personify the legend of Krishna with folklore and cultural traditions.
Pilgrims visit Mathura – one of the seven sacred Indian cities – for its enchanting culture (Charkula dance, Raasleela and folk music). Vrindavan is a holy town in Mathura district which attracts close to 5,00,000 pilgrims every year.
Alwar
Major Attractions: Bala Fort, Alwar City Palace, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Mousse Umbrella, Fatehjung Dome, Bhangarh, Cervical Waterfall, Neemarana Fort
Alwar is a small town located in the state of Rajasthan. The place boasts of lush green forests, flowers and vines and is believed to be as old as 1500 BC.
Sundar Mahal, the quiet lake and the royal hunt are some of the major attractions of this town situated in the lap of Aravalis. Regular buses are available for Alwar from all major Indian cities.
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