20 destinations to visit in 2020 – Part I
It’s that time of the year again. We’re back to the grind and have gotten accustomed to writing 2020 instead of 2019. But let’s not already forget our resolution for the year – to travel more, and travel further.
This month, we in the Holidays Team are bringing you some inspiration to make your travel resolution come true. We’ve curated a list of 20 best destinations in India and around the world that’s sure to satisfy your wanderlust.
1. Antarctica
For many travellers, the South Pole is shrouded in mystery with hazy images of penguins, icebergs and glaciers, making it seemingly unexplorable. But we have a little secret: it’s quite easy to get there. A host of luxury cruises will take you on an unforgettable journey through the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula. You can get up close with penguins, seals and whales, test your strength as you kayak through brash ice, burn calories by hiking through the snow, or even dive head first into adventure with a scuba dive. Inspired? Come, set foot on the seventh continent.
2. Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Being forbidden territory till the late 1980s has left this beautiful valley almost untouched. Take a look around, and you’ll know why we believe that it’s a place where the Gods may have once lived. And while Sangla charms you with its unending views of snow-capped mountains, you can also listen to the music of the Baspa river that will put you in a state of trance. Then let the fresh breeze caress your face, as you bite into a crispy, red apple, fresh from the orchard. It’s your little world. Care to experience it?
3. Reunion Island
On the east of Madagascar lies an undiscovered French paradise that’s covered in craters so large that an entire village resides there. While we loved the sun, sand and laid-back days, Reunion Island does have its share of activities for the adventurer in you. When the popular Piton de la Fournaise volcano is not erupting, you can enjoy a hike to view the crater and open volcanic plains. Else, spend the day hiking trails through lush forests and rocky volcanic mountains or scuba diving in some of the clearest waters to discover the reef. Want to add it to your bucket list?
4. Leh
On a white desert lies snow-capped mountains and sapphire lakes, divided by untamed rivers and dotted with peaceful monasteries. And that’s just scratching the surface when it comes to describing the beautiful destination of Leh. Most popularly known for the highest motorable road, Leh has so much more to offer. Stop by Shanti Stupa, or Leh Palace and enjoy a sweeping view of the city from up above. That aside, it was the landscape that truly left us mesmerised. From cool blues and snowy whites to earthy greens and browns, the changing landscape will make you take multiple stops along the way. Don’t forget to get your camera along for the trip!
5. Belgrade, Serbia
Outspoken, adventurous and lively – that’s our experience of the Serbian capital, Belgrade. While its exuberant nightlife has made it one of Europe’s most happening cities, you will still see remains of its chaotic past that’s been well preserved for centuries. One such attraction is the Belgrade Fortress. Destroyed and built over and over for 16 centuries, this fortress protects the city’s rich history and hides numerous legends. Fancy a tour?
6. Bhutan
Best known for being the unspoilt face of the Himalayas, Bhutan promises to take you on a peaceful journey with its marvellous Buddhist monasteries. What catches your eye in the monasteries are the exquisite carvings and paintings of mystical creatures and deities. But what will truly pique your interest is the folklore that envelopes these monasteries. Let us not spoil it for you. Take a trip to Bhutan and hear them for yourself.
7. Mongolia
Mongolia’s most colourful and vibrant festival is also the biggest, where men and women showcase their excellence in sports that are native to the country – horse racing, archery and wrestling. A perfect way to get acquainted with the culture and heritage of Mongolians, the festival can be enjoyed in the big cities and small towns in the country. This year, Naadam Festival is scheduled for 11th to 15th July, and we can’t wait to get back into the spirit. Are you ready to book your tickets?
8. Auli, Uttarakhand
The crunching sound as you step onto the white blanket of show. The puffy gear that helps you stay warm and dry. The bulky shoes that cause you to lose balance. There’s no experience quite like skiing. And whether your first skiing experience is embarrassing or if it’s one of achievement, you will never forget the that time you hit the slopes. What’s great is that you don’t need to venture too far to experience it. Skiing in the hill station of Auli in Uttarakhand is slowly becoming a favourite of adventure lovers from around the globe. Are you geared up?
9. South Korea
There’s no denying South Korea’s influence in our country. Whether it’s teenagers bopping their heads to K-Pop, women searching for the secret behind Korean beauty, or people waiting in restaurant queues to dig into a bowl of Korean ramen – Indians are eager to discover the Korean lifestyle. But why not experience it first-hand in the country that’s steeped in history and culture that goes back 5000 years? It doesn’t matter if you dive into the bustle of the capital, Seoul, scale the country’s highest peak, Halla Mountain in Jeju, soak in the culture in Gyeongju or Busan – we loved that the country and its people are so welcoming.
10. Rishikesh
There are those that stay for a long time in this holy town, others who return again and again, and then there are those whose never really leave – at least not in spirit. Now called the Yoga Capital of the World, it was The Beatles who made Rishikesh popular with their pilgrimage in 1968. Set in the foothills of the Himalayas, the ashrams and pure Himalayan air is what draws millions of travellers who crave peace and spirituality. And trust us when we say that, a stay in one of its many luxury spa and yoga resorts rejuvenates your body, mind and soul. Sounds like the perfect way to begin the year, right?
We’ll return to catch you up on the next 10 destinations that will make travel headlines this year. But if you’re ready to tick one of these destinations off your bucket list, we’d be more than happy to make it happen. At Indiana Travels, we offer the perfect balance of luxury resorts and premium experiences that will surely make your holiday a memorable one. And all that without you undergoing the hassle of bookings, visa and forex. You have the world to explore, and we’re excited to get you there.
You can read the rest of the list here.
