Jazz up your Christmas vacation, make a short trip on the road less travelled

Thane: With Christmas round the corner, planning a short vacation is on the minds of many people. Travel experts say that instead of planning a trip to one of the routine destinations, people should try visiting unexplored getaways.
Neelu Singh, chief operating officer of online travel portal Ezeego1.com, said of late exploring new destinations has become a trend.“People want to move away from the rush of year-end parties,” said Singh.
Those enamored by the beaches can visit the coastal regions of Dahanu and Gholvad and rewind among the chickoo orchards. “There are several farmhouses that are available on rent,” said Bomi Irani, who owns a farmhouse near Dahanu. A stay would cost between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,500 per person.
The Karjat-Neral belt has several agro-tourism projects. “We have activities like fishing, buffalo riding, in addition to interactive sessions on farming. The charges are around Rs 1,250 per person for 24 hours,” said Nilesh Tare, of one such farmhouse in Neral.
Those into bird-watching also have many options. “Akshi beach attracts a lot of migratory sea birds. Visitors can avail of the cottages or home-stay facilities here that start from Rs 700 and go up to Rs 2,500,” said A Parab of the Maharashtra Tour Operators Association.
The adventurous kind can head to Kamshet where some private operators have sky diving and para-gliding facilities while those interested in trekking could head to Naneghat near Malshej or Mahuli near Lonavala. “These trekking spots are ideal for visiting in winter. Though they are easy to climb, expert guidance is advised before venturing into these areas. Stay facilities are usually arranged at villagers’ homes and the package includes food as well,” said Jitendra Kothari, a travel expert.