Krishna's Butterball - Mahabalipuram

March 1st, 2016 by Abhijit Chakraborty

Confused about how to spend this weekend? Here are 5 great destinations in different parts of the country that will make for a great experience.

Delhi to Agra – 211 km (3 h 20 min)

Thanks to the relatively new Yamuna Expressway, what used to be a five-hour journey has now been cut short by an hour and a half. Agra offers visitors not just  the magnificent Taj Mahal, but also many other monuments like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri and many more. Foodies get to satiate their taste-buds at the local eateries that serve delicious authentic Mughlai cuisine. For those with a sweet tooth, Agra’s pethas are a must-have and a must-pack. This city is also a shoppers’ delight, with miniatures, jewellery and leather products that are famous the world over.

The Historic Agra Fort
The Historic Agra Fort

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Mumbai to Alibaug – 95 km (2 hr 10 min)

This coastal town is one of the best weekend getaways from Mumbai. An alternative to driving is to catch a ferry from the Gateway of India to Mandwa and from there, a bus to Alibaug. Among the many beaches, Nagaon beach is the top choice of visitors with its clean sand and brilliant view of the sunset. Adventure lovers can also enjoy water sports. Other popular beaches include Versoli beach and Awas beach. Do check out the Khanderi and Undheri fort complexes about 7 km away from Alibaug (don’t miss the canons overlooking the sea from the Khanderi fort).

Canons on the beach at Alibaug
Canons on the beach at Alibaug

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Bangalore to Nandi Hills – 62 km (1 hr 30 min)

Located close to Bangalore, Nandi Hills provide relief to visitors looking for a break from the hustle-bustle of the city. A great place for trekking, the view of the sunrise from the hills is one of the best you will see. Popular as a weekend getaway among the youth, the place is best visited early in the morning. Apart from its natural beauty and peaceful ambience, the place also has Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and a host of temples dedicated to various deities. During winters, the fog on the hills gives the feeling of standing among the clouds.

View point at Nandi Hills
View point at Nandi Hills

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Chennai to Mahabalipuram – 56 km (1 hr 30 min)

A World Heritage Site, Mahabalipuram is famous for its archaeological wonders. Know as the Temple Town, the Shore Temple built by the Pallava dynasty is the key attraction. Apart from this, a number of other monuments such as Arjuna’s Penance (a large, sculpted rock that shows Arjuna during his penance) and Krishna’s Butterball (a rounded rock on a sloping hillock) make for an interesting visit. The souvenir shops sell some ornate collectibles such as small statues and decorated seashells (priced high, but the sellers are happy to negotiate).

Krishna's Butterball - Mahabalipuram
Krishna’s Butterball – Mahabalipuram

Click here to book a hotel in Chennai.

 

Delhi to Jaipur – 269 km (4 hr 30 min)

Mere words cannot do justice to the countless hues of this singularly historic city. Be it art, architecture, literature, handiwork, nature or even raw, powerful spirit—Jaipur has it all. The breathtaking Jal Mahal, the scintillating Jantar Mantar, the extraordinary Pink City and the grandiose Hawa Mahal are a few of the endless gems in the city’s treasure chest. As for cuisine, it is common knowledge that Rajasthani food is on the spicier side. Take your taste-buds on a roller-coaster ride with the spectrum of dishes this place offers.

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Amer Fort, Jaipur

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So, there you go. These five interesting destinations can be visited and experienced in two days or less. Isn’t that a great way to spend your weekend?

 

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