In & Around the City – The Bombay Post

Light pitter-patter, a warm mug of coffee, and a cozy tent made up amidst greenery, quiet, and soothing breeze – that’s all that takes to make monsoon’s memorable. So, if you’re a little bored with the routine getaways of pubs and cafés, here are some camping spots that could be your weekend respite this monsoon.

Where to camp this monsoon?
Photograph Credit: Discovering Finland

1. Coorg, Karnataka –

Situated 5 hours away from Bangalore, Coorg is snuggled amidst dense forest cover. The monsoon just makes it greener and fresher. Go on a field trip to Pushpagiri wildlife sanctuary, go on an adventurous hike at Kotebetta and enjoy camping in Bettigeri. Surrounded by a wide variety of flora and fauna, you can get a step closer to nature and admire its abundance.

Coorg Credit: Coorg Tourism — Coorg
Photograph Credit: Coorg Tourism

2. Munnar, Kerala –

Southern India is truly a boon for nature lovers. Situated in God’s own country, Munnar is one of the favourite tourist spots in India during monsoons. Camp amidst the lush green hills of Anamudi and walk along the Mattupetty Dam. There could be no better paradise to experience monsoon’s magic, and you’ll find yourself rejuvenated in no time.

Munnar Credit: Zooka Travels — Munnar
Photograph Credit: Zooka Travels

3. Lonavala, Maharashtra –

Where there’s talk of the monsoons, there has to be mention of this little village of Maharashtra. It’s situated at a mere 86.5 km from Mumbai and the drive to it is as beautiful as the destination. The captivating greenery of Sahyadri mountains, the breathtaking waterfalls at Bushi dam, and a scenic campsite on the banks of the Pavana lake will give you a refreshing break from the hustle of the city.

Rajmachi Fort, Lonavala Photograph Credit: Trawell.in — Rajmachi Fort, Lonavala
Photograph Credit: Trawell.in

4. Sandhan Valley, Maharashtra –

Enjoy the true spirit of adventure and monsoon in this small town of Igatpuri in Maharashtra. Participate in adventure activities like rappelling and trekking to get your adrenaline rushing and camp under the starlit skies to add an unforgettable experience to your life.

Sandhan Valley Photograph Credit: HolidayMine — Sandhan Valley
Photograph Credit: HolidayMine

5. Hampi, Karnataka –

One of the World Heritage Sites, Hampi is located on the banks of river Tungabhadra. The hippie island across the river is the perfect place to set up your camp and enjoy the showers. Gear up for rock climbing and bouldering on Anjaneya Hills and camp with a bonfire on the rocks.

Hampi Photograph Credit: The Better India — Hampi
Photograph Credit: The Better India

Hopefully, we’ve given you enough reasons to get your backpack ready and step out to experience the magic of monsoons. Don’t forget your raincoats! Or may as well, get drenched.
Happy monsoons.

Whether it’s a business trip or a weekend getaway, it’s always helpful to have a rundown of what items you want to pack – like a comprehensive international travel checklist, so you don’t have to run hither and thither hunting down the necessary items. You need to pack strategically, efficiently, and even stylishly: a capsule travel wardrobe. Take a cue from Akshay Narvekar – Founder, Bombay Shirt Company on how & what to pack for a long weekend trip.

• Choose Your Main Luggage

Wherever you’re planning to go, pick luggage that is versatile, lightweight & big enough to hold your essentials. The most important decision you’ll make is (as far as luggage is concerned) buying a bag that has an awesome warranty. Traveling with a piece of luggage with a broken wheel handle or zipper is the absolute worst! For a short trip, try going either for a rolling luggage or a duffel bag as they are simple, lightweight and as versatile as it gets.

Sling it over your shoulder, or put some wheels on your duffle bag and get on your way.

• Organize your stuff

If you have lots of different types of activities you plan to do, keeping everything organized can be a challenge. One of the best things you can do when you’re packing for any trip, especially one that requires you to pack lots of layers, is to make sure you use packing organizers. The result would not only end up in making your life easier by showing exactly where everything is, but the clothing can be arranged & compressed so you can fit more in your bag.

• Don’t forget the basics

While packing clothes, we tend to focus on the activities we’re planning to do & what gear & apparel would suit the mood. And in time, we forget to pack the essentials – the comfort-wear. Make sure to pack your favourite, most comfortable pyjamas & tshirt for the chill times you want to spend relaxing in your hotel room. Also, be vary of which shoes to pack as you’d not want to make your luggage heavy by adding extra or unnecessary footwear. In case on a business trip, carry your crisp white shirt along with your favourite book to relax while being focused.

While on a business trip, don't forget your crisp white shirt — While on a business trip, don’t forget your crisp white shirt

• The Toiletry Bag/Travel Pouch

The grooming kit should never be forgotten as you’d want to make the most of your vacation looking good & fresh. Make sure you pack the basics like mouth & hair essentials, along with your anti-allergens, facewash, sunscreen and moisturizer.

Don't forget the essentials — Don’t forget the essentials

• The Luxe items

After you’re done packing the basics, it’s time to pack the luxury items. Start with your favourite cologne that’s lying on the top rack of your cupboard. And proceed with packing your headphones, camera, and the tablet for a relaxing weekend. Carry your magazines in case you’ve decided on a digital detox. And don’t forget to carry your Bombay Shirts to add comfort to your style.

Have a smooth vacation.

The Bombay Post.

Category: In & Around the City

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Things to pack for a long weekend