Who doesn’t enjoy taking a break with their daily grind with a getaway with their squad? Whether you’re planning a reunion, a bachelorette party, or just some quality time with your girl gang, or just your BFF, India offers a plethora of destinations tailored to different friend groups. From luxury retreats to adventurous escapades and even shopping havens, here’s a curated list of travel destinations in India for the perfect girls’ getaway.
1. For the Nature Enthusiasts: Munnar, Kerala
Nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats, Munnar is a serene escape for friend groups seeking peace and greenery. Rolling tea plantations, misty hills, and cool weather make it an ideal spot to unwind.
Things To Do:
- Tea Tasting Tours: Munnar is known for its tea plantations, so book a tour to one and sip on freshly brewed teas while learning about their origins. Like Kanan Devan Hills Plantations or Kolukkumalai Tea Estate.
- Eravikulam National Park: Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr amidst lush greenery.
- Waterfalls Hopping: Visit Attukal and Lakkam Waterfalls for Instagram-worthy moments.
- Bamboo Rafting on Periyar Lake: Build and navigate your own raft, blending craftsmanship with adventure.
- Visit Marayoor Sandalwood Forests and Megalithic Tombs: Explore ancient dolmens and India’s largest sandalwood reserve.
2. For the Beach Lovers: Gokarna, Karnataka
Looking for one of the beach travel destinations in India that gives Goa vibes, but is quieter. Gokarna’s pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere make it a haven for beach bums.
Things To Do:
- Beach Hopping: From the secluded Om Beach to the serene Kudle Beach, each has its charm. You can also go beach trekking at the path connecting Paradise Beach to Half Moon Beach.
- Temple Visits: Explore lesser-known temples like Maha Ganapati and their intriguing stories.
- Yoga by the Sea: Perfect for groups who enjoy wellness retreats.
- Sunset Chasing: End your day watching breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
3. For the Shopaholics: Jaipur, Rajasthan
From leather jootis and block-printed suits and sarees to lac bangles and kundan jewelry, bazaars of the Pink City are a dream come true for shopaholic squads.
Things To Do:
- Explore Johari Bazaar: The name itself says it all, right? Jaipur is known for its gemstones and semi-precious stones, and Johari Bazaar is the hub for it where you can find handcrafted, unique designs.
- Tripolia Bazaar: Famous for lac jewelry and other varieties of bangles, you can also get custom-made bangles here right in front of you.
- Indulge in Fashion: looking to add some traditional Rajasthani textiles, like bandhani, leheriya, and sanganeri prints, to your wardrobe, then you must visit Kishanpole Bazaar. And if you are looking for Jootis, visit Nehru Bazaar.
- Shop For Handicrafts: Not just fashion, Jaipur is known for its rich handicrafts and pottery, which you can find in Chandpole Bazaar, MI Road, and Aravali Bazaar.
- Pottery Workshops in Sanganer: Learn the craft of Jaipur’s famous blue pottery.
4. For the Culture Buffs: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
For groups drawn to spirituality and history, Varanasi offers an immersive cultural experience. With its labyrinthine alleys, ancient temples, and ghats along the Ganges, the city is perfect travel destinations in India for those who love a bit of culture.
Things To Do:
- Evening Aarti: You just cannot skip the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is such a spiritual sight.
- Boat Ride at Sunrise: Float along the Ganga and soak in the serene beauty.
- Shop for Banarasi Silk: Well, this is the hometown of Banarasi silk, so how can you not indulge in shopping for exquisite sarees that are perfect keepsakes.
- Weaving Villages Tour: Explore Banarasi silk weaving workshops in local neighborhoods to see artisans at work. You can visit silk weavers’ colonies in Lallapura or Sarai Mohana.
- Historical Sightseeing: Sites like the 18th-century Ramnagar Fort and the Tulsi Manas Mandir, where the Ramayana was transcribed, are a must visit.
Also Read: Your ultimate getaway guide for Exploring Jim Corbett National Park
5. For the Luxury Seekers: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur’s regal charm and opulent palaces make it perfect for those who enjoy the finer things in life. From stays and food to sights, everything about Udaipur speaks of Luxury.
Things To Do
- Visit The Royal Sights: Udaipur’s opulent palaces are not to be missed, especially the City Palace and Jag Mandir Palace
- Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Cruise in style while soaking in the city’s beauty. And it is best to book one for sunset viewing as that is just a magnificent view to catch.
- Trek to Bahubali Hills: Witness panoramic views of Badi Lake, which is one of the cleanest lakes in the country, and surrounding hills.
- Royal Dining: Indulge in the Royalty of the city by enjoying a meal at Ambrai in 350-year-old Amet Haveli, or Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant or The Sunset Terrace at Fateh Prakash Palace.
- Book A Luxury Stay: Treat yourself like Royalty by booking a room at Taj Lake Palace or Oberoi Udaivilas or Taj Fateh Prakash Palace.
6. For the Adventurous Souls: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is a paradise for adventure lovers, offering thrilling activities, from air to water and land. With its rugged terrains, snow-capped peaks, and rushing rivers, it offers diverse adrenaline-pumping activities tailored for groups seeking excitement.
Things To Do
- River Rafting on the Beas: Conquer the rapids of the icy Beas River, an exhilarating experience ideal for teams with an adventurous spirit.
- Paragliding in Solang Valley: Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the valley’s verdant beauty. Perfect for adrenaline junkies, this is one of India’s top paragliding spots.
- Skiing and Snowboarding in Solang or Rohtang Pass: Winter transforms these areas into a snowy wonderland for skiing and snowboarding. And you can also sign-up for classes to learn skiing.
- Trekking Adventures of Hampta Pass Trek and Bhrigu Lake Trek: Two of the most well-known treks with breathtaking views here that adventurous souls cannot skip.
- Zorbing and ATV Rides in Solang Valley: Enjoy rolling down slopes in giant transparent balls or go on thrilling all-terrain vehicle rides across rugged paths.
- Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Want to test your endurance and strength on the cliffs and rocks surrounding Manali. These activities are perfect for bonding and group challenges.
7. For the Foodies: Amritsar, Punjab
For foodie groups, Amritsar is one of the ultimate travel destinations in India. The city’s legendary Punjabi cuisine is unforgettable, especially when you soak in the beauty and spirituality of the Golden Temple.
Thing To do:
- Golden Temple Langar and Kada Prasad: Experience the humble yet delicious community kitchen.
- Street Food Trails: Amritsari kulchas, after all that’s where the name comes from, right? Also, among must-try dishes are Amritsari fish tikka, and Makki di roti and sarson da saag.
- Wagah Border Ceremony: A patriotic and thrilling evening outing not to be missed if you are in Amritsar.
- Farm Stays with Traditional Activities: Enjoy the vibe of a “pind” by going to a farm stay where you can enjoy traditional chulha food, milk cows and even ride tractors.
- Visit Pul Kanjri War Memorial: Visit the lesser-known serene, historic spot often overlooked, which is around 35 kms from Amritsar.
8. For Offbeat Explorers: Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh
Gandikota, known as the “Grand Canyon of India,” offers breathtaking views of a dramatic gorge carved by the Penna River. This destination is perfect for history and nature enthusiasts alike. Its blend of rugged landscapes, serene camping spots, and proximity to the mystical Belum Caves makes it ideal for travelers seeking a unique and tranquil escape.
Things To Do:
- Gorge Exploration: Trek through the stunning Gandikota Gorge, with its breathtaking canyon views.
- Visit the Gandikota Fort: Explore this ancient structure built with red sandstone, housing temples, mosques, and granaries.
- Belum Caves: Just a short drive from Gandikota, these are the second-largest caves in India, known for their unique stalactite and stalagmite formations.
- Camping by the Gorge: Book a camping experience and spend the night under the stars, surrounded by dramatic landscapes
Final Tips for a Memorable Girls’ Getaway
- Plan Ahead: Decide on a budget, activities, and stay in advance.
- Safety First: Opt for well-reviewed accommodations and stay connected.
- Personalize It: Add unique elements like themed outfits or custom playlists to make the trip extra special.
Gather your girl gang, get in touch with a good travel planner, and head to one of these fabulous travel destinations in India. After all, nothing beats the magic of traveling with your best friends!
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