9 Destinations That Exactly Your Soul Needs

These authentic destinations are better than you can imagine, closer than you think and offer a break from urbanity.

- Anita Rao Kashi

Whether you know it or not, you’re probably in a state of sensory overload—the smell of the city, the cacophony of cellphones and traffic, the sight of your boss’ face. What you probably need is misty mornings, crisp breezes and hot tea. Thankfully, India’s vastness and topographical diversity mean that there’s something for every kind of soul. Here are a few places, picked from all corners of the country, where you can get away for a few days.

MAWLYNNONG Meghalaya

In Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills, amidst the lush green valleys, is the little village of Mawlynnong, about 80 km south of the capital, Shillong. Staying in the village, walking around the narrow lanes and soaking up the ambience of the bamboo houses on stilts framed by lovely hills in the background is surreal. Mawlynnong takes cleanliness very seriously, and you’ll see bamboo baskets to collect waste spread throughout the village—the locals take it upon themselves to collectively follow the rules. Go outside the village and look at the living root bridges, a heritage of Meghalaya. Made of intertwined rubber plant roots and branches, these are bridges made by the locals and are a natural means to cross streams and rivulets that flow through the entire region. There are also plenty of trekking paths, waterfalls and postcard-worthy sunsets.

GUSHAINI Himachal Pradesh