Saturday, August 4, 2012

Picturesque Kolad

When you want to get away from work, worry and stress, take a break from the city life and enjoy with hot new destinations that are waiting to be explored. I would not prefer going to the regular destinations like Mahabaleshwar and Lonavla. So, I planned a one day trip to a picturesque little village, Kolad, 100 kms away from Pune.

"The majestic Sahyadris form the perfect backdrop to the magnificent valleys and marshlands of Kolad. The main attraction here is whitewater rafting at Kundalika River. The resort too organises many adventure activities like trekking, river crossing and kayaking. Such trips refresh you completely," she said

People these days are looking beyond just 'relaxation' during holidays, feels Abhay Ghanekar, a coordinator for adventurous activities. "Clients want to have an unforgettable experience. Hence, these new places are becoming favourite hotspots. One such magnificent destination is Tapola, which is 25 kms from Mahabaleshwar."

Monikered the mini Kashmir, the place has a beautiful lake and a spectacular Koyna wild life sanctuary. The main reason why people opt for these destinations is that they are less crowded."

If you crave to spend a happy outdoorsy summer with your gang at a camp, then Nilshi near Lonavla, is the place to be. "Nature is at its best there with water on all three sides. It is set in the midst of rain drenched trees and mist covered mountains. Sports like archery, kayaking, rappelling and climbing up through thundering waterfalls are offered there," says outdoor consultant Darshan Prabhu, adding, "Another thrilling destination is Dungerwadi area. The place is perfect for an overnight stay in tents, and has plenty of options for treks. Rock climbing, rappelling and many water-based activities can also be enjoyed here."

The thrill of exploring new destinations is the main reason why such places becoming popular, feels Chinmay Diwekar, director of a resort that has branches at many such unexplored destinations.

Highlighting the increasing demand of such places, he says, "When we started our resort at Koyna back water in 2006, it was tough. But as time passed, through word of mouth, people came to know about this beautiful place and now the response is overwhelming. Most of our weekends are packed. We are expecting at least 2,500 people to come and explore this place during this month."

A couple would spend Rs. 3,800 for stay, meals and activities that include kayaking, mountain biking, valley crossing, treks to Vasota fort, the Koyna wildlife sanctuary, camp fire and treasure hunts among others. Wind surfing is another interesting adventure sports that you could experience.

If you're not the kind who seeks solitude, then head of marketing of a travel planner Tanvi Thatte suggests a blissful location, "It's a privately owned resort, located near a lake at Saswad that is a complete eco-friendly destination. Windmill, eco-culture, solar cooker, bio-gas plants and vermiculture and organic farming are some of its main features. Made from recycled materials, the place makes you feel closer to mother earth. Living with farm animals, children can enjoy pony rides and tractor rides. It's a perfect venue for a relaxed weekend or a small family holiday."



















































































































































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