There are some things in life which can be quite unbearable. Living in a city during this pandemic can sure top the list.
Are you through with the city life (or even beach time) and want to shift to enjoy the mountain life in Himalayas?
Do you wish to enjoy the chirping of the birds every morning, the sunbathing sessions during the afternoons and a cup of hot tea in the evening before curling up inside your warm cozy bed at night?
Well, fret not.
Here is a list of places you can head to right now and set up camp for a long time, in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand!
And all these places make for excellent Road Trips from Delhi and Chandigarh !
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Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh government has finally opened its border to tourist and one doesn’t even require a covid test anymore! However, we would still recommend you to get one for the safety of locals. Himachal Pradesh is the perfect destination, for an adventurous road trip, and is an attractive option for a backpacker. You will easily find a hostel in any part of the state and there are infinite things you can do here. Here are some of the places where you can stay in Himachal for a long time.
Manali, Kullu Valley
Himachal Pradesh government has opened its border to tourists and one of the best places to head to right now is Manali. Not only can you find a really cozy homestay or a hostel in Old Manali and Vashisth to stay in for a long time, but you can also visit the nearby places thanks to the new Atal Tunnel. Lahual is open for tourism and you can now reach places like Sissu within no time. You also also head to Ladakh from Manali. There are also various treks like Chanderkhani Pass, Beas Kund and Brighu Lake that you can do from Manali.
The best and safest way to reach Manali, currently, is by taking a cab from Delhi.
Check this post if you are wondering What to do during a Workation in Old Manali ?
Dharmshala- Mcleodganj, Kangra Valley
The mesmerising Kangra valley has also opened its door for tourism. To enjoy your stay here, we would recommend you to stay at a hostel that is offering a long term stay. Kangra valley is dotted with picturesque beauty and there are various things that you can do there. From visiting the tea garden in Dharamshala to taking evening strolls in the streets of Mcleodganj, Kangra valley has got you covered. You can also do various treks like Triund and Kareri Lake trek. You can head to Bir Billing for a day to paraglide. Besides that, Mcleodganj and Dharamkot have the best cafes in the valley like Morgan’s, Jimmy’s Italian Cafe and Coffee Talk. Let’s not forget the gorgeous views of Dhauladhar range one gets to witness from every angle!
The best way to reach Dharamshala-Mcleodganj, currently, is by taking a flight from IGI airport to Gaggal airport and then a cab from there to reach the city, or you can always take a road trip to Dharamshala from Delhi or Chandigarh.
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a magical place for those who seek and love raw adventure. Defining breathtaking landscapes, mesmerising views, captivating peaks, homely local culture; Uttarakhand is the ultimate destination in Himalayas. Still quite under explored, it a land full of surprises. Don’t forget to check out this 7 Day Uttarakhand Road Trip Itinerary too !
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is the ultimate destination for those looking to escape the city life in order to gain some inner peace. Not only is the town best for yoga retreat but you can also find serenity in every corner. The sound of Ganga flowing by is just a cherry on top of the cake. You will find rooms to rent on a longterm basis and various hostels that will offer the same. Besides invoking your spiritual soul, you can also visit the Neera waterfalls, enjoy the Ganga Arti during sunsets, eat a lot in German bakeries and visit the Tryambekeshwar temple. Not to forget, you can also do street shopping!
The best way to reach Rishikesh, currently, is by taking a flight from IGI airport to Jolly Grant airport and cab from there.
Almora- Nainital, Kumaon region of Uttarakhand
The Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is a package full of explored and unexplored gems. It is dotted with home-stays and hostels, where you can stay for a long duration. Dense forests, places to visit and an unbelievably magnificent night sky, the region is mesmerising from every angle. You can do various things here like visiting the famous temples, do food tours and head to some of the Best National Parks in India like of Jim Corbett National Park and Nanda Devi National Park. You can also do various treks like Panchauli Base camp trek and Adi Kailash trek.
The best way to reach Kumaon region, currently, is by taking a cab directly from Delhi.
Mussoorie– Landour
Mussoorie and Landour are the most accessible hill stations of Uttarakhand and also among the most beautiful. Waking up here to sun rays peeking inside your room and having breakfast in small cafes is the best way to start your day. You can spend your day in the beautiful streets, cafes, libraries and trails. You can visit the Kempty Falls, do the Nag Tibba trek, rock-climbing, paragliding and even food tours. And, just in case, you miss the city life once in a while you can head to Dehradun city!
The best way to reach Mussoorie – Landour, currently, is by taking a flight from IGI airport to Jolly Grant airport and cab from there.
All the three destinations – Rishikesh, Almora – Nainital and Mussoorie – Landour, make for excellent road trip options from Delhi, and it takes anywhere between 5-8 hours to reach. You can also club them together and end up doing a 7 Day Uttarakhand Road Trip starting from Delhi.
So, if want to head to the Himalayas for a long term stay, you can head to either of the locations. With the winters setting, all these locations are also open during these months!
If you are wondering where to Work from Home in the Mountains, check out this list featuring 10+ Quaint Homestays that are perfect for a long Workation ! Also, don’t forget to Pin This Post !
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Ambika is an avid traveller and trekker who loves to hop from one mountain to another. She is extremely passionate about backpacking, mountaineering and adventure sports including skiing and surfing. Currently studying in Delhi University as a political science student, she jumps on a bus whenever possible and tries to find a story in every corner while travelling, penning down her thoughts.