The word honeymoon usually invokes thoughts of cosy, tender moments which newly-weds want. It is that time when the couple goes off to some secluded destination to spend some quality time; to get to know themselves better afar from the maddening crowd. Usually it is the trend of couples to choose places which they have heard or read about. Some even follow the path which celebrities take. But then in India itself there are a number of locations which are not well known, but have great potential as honeymoon spots. They are not crowded, give the newly-married couples the perfect chance to explore one another. Orissa POST takes a look at some of these places.
Sundarbans (West Bengal): It may have gained notoriety for its Royal Bengal tigers. But then the Sundarban mangrove forests don’t mean tigers only. It is one of the major sites of eco tourism in the country. In addition to providing an exotic locale for the lovebirds, Sundarbans provides an exotic array of birds, flowers, plantations and various varieties of sounds which one would never get in the urbane atmosphere. It offers the mystique of mystery as the couple get to unravel the mysteries of one another. And if you are lucky enough you may come face to face with the big cat itself.
Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh): This unique location in Madhya Pradesh is the ideal destination for you and your partner if you want to mix fun and love with sculpture and history. The monuments of Kajuraho have already been declared as one of the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. With the city being one of the prime destinations of tourists across the world, Khajuraho has all the facilities for all types of pockets. It is an ideal place to mix romance in combo with the tales of love that the monuments depict.
Yumthang Valley (Sikkim): It is also called the Valley of Flowers. So for all those Hindi movie buffs who have grown up idolising their heroes and heroines romancing among colourful blossoms, this ‘Valley of Flowers’ is the ideal place to celebrate honeymoon. One problem though – the place doesn’t have a hotel. No problems – it gives it a better aesthetic appeal. Who cares for hotels when nature sheds all its colourful blessings on the newly-weds? But then one can easily stay at Lachung which is approximately 2.5 hours away from Yumthang Valley, take the drive during the day and then return in the evening to reminisce about the colours and scents snuggling close to one another.
Jaisalmer (Rajasthan): It is the place for the hearts to grow fond of one another in the heart of the Thar Desert. The ‘Golden City’ as Jaisalmer is known is all about art, culture, tradition and heritage. What makes the city stand out is the warmth the people exude. And once you have the ride on the camel, you can be sure that it is a honeymoon which you will never forget.
Rishikesh (Uttarakhand): For those adventurous lovebirds who want a streak of excitement in their lives, Rishikesh is the right place for honeymoon. It will be living life on the edge for both you and your better half in this city. It is home to some of the strenuous treks, gruesome rapids and several adventure activities like Bungee Jumping. You can be sure that will be like no other common honeymoon – it will be love blossoming amid adventure and excitement – something which forever will remain in the memories of both of you.
Kumarakom (Kerala): After all the festive celebrations of a big-fat wedding, both of you really deserve to relax. So Kumarakom village situated on Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala is the perfect getaway for the newly-married. Relax on the houseboats as you catch the glimpse of many varieties of birds – if you are lucky you may even catch the sight of elephants swimming through the water. It is the perfect place to blend your relaxing moments with plenty of tenderness and romance and some exotic food stuff also.
Hampi (Karnataka): Situated on the banks of the River Tungabhadra, this South Indian village is a treasure house of numerous temple ruins. Explore the history behind the ruins as you also explore your feelings for one another. It has been said that the aura of the past shapes your present… so Hampi is the perfect place for the honeymooners to shape a great future.
Meghalaya: The entire state is a couple’s delight as the perennial rains make it a wonderful romantic honeymoon destination. The lush greenery bathed fresh in the rains, the waterfalls and nature walks are sure to envy for your attention! But don’t worry this is one distraction your spouse is sure to enjoy with you.
PNN & Agencies