Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort
While Orchaa is one big storehouse of havelis, frescos, palaces and everything photogenic with rafting and nature trails, Gwalior is the underrated heritage walk with essentials like Gwalior fort, Jai Vilas Palace, Sun temple and the Tomb of Tansen.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Gwalior Fort Jai Vilas Palace Gujari Mahal (State Archaeological Museum)
A historic city founded by king Surajesan, Gwalior is galore with beautiful monuments, palaces and temples, giving this city a majestic charm which speaks volumes of its glorious past. The city's heritage has remained captured in the imposing architecture of mosques, rock temples and statues. If you are up to discovering some ancient heritage alongside taking some eye-catching photos Orchha and Gwalior tour is just for you.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : New Tehri Dhanaulti Camping
If the first split of the semester hasn’t let you catch your breath yet, and your idea of mid-sem does not include any activity or to do list, this is where you need to be. There are hills, orchards and enough calm to do absolutely nothing and love it. Hang out, go for walks, and head out to Mussoorie for occasional action and rush.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park
With tiger population making it to the news again, for good, there is no better time than this for this park. Spend this mid-sem break on the back of an elephant, spotting tigers, afternoons at the safari and early morning rafting and you are set.
Best Time: Mid October to Mid June
Known For : Lake Naukuchiatal Boating, Naukuchiatal Bhimtal Lake
A nine cornered lake believed to have pathways to nirvana, one of the best paragliding experiences in India and modest hills to complete your hill station holiday. This one too is idle, lazy, interspersed by boat rides and an itinerary full of lakesides.
Best Time: April to June, September to November
Known For : Zero Point Jageshwar Kasar Devi
This one is cosy, laid out with postcard scenery, nature walks, history’s nuances here and there and local handicrafts to look out for. Don’t miss the sunset and sunrise points and the zero point which looks out to views of Himalayan peaks.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Kasar Devi is a quaint Temple on a hilltop situated in a village near Almora, Uttarakhand. It derives its name from a local deity Kasar Devi, and the temple is erected in her reverence. Also known as Crank's Ridge, this place gained prominence after the "Hippie Movement" of the 1960s and 1970s. This place is known for the many luminaries that have visited. Personalities like Bob Dylan, Timothy Leary, Allen Ginsberg, Cat Stevens and Swami Vivekananda have meditated and absorbed in the calm and quiet of this beautiful location, hidden in the Kumaon Hills. It is also a popular pilgrimage destination around Almora ideal for people who are spiritual and love being one among nature. The hilly region is perfect to unwind and spend time meditating. Adventure driven people can come here for long hikes and treks on hills and surrounded by greenery. Almora and Kasar Devi are the best places in Uttarakkhand enlighten the divine feel in you along with some wildlife spoting and hill views.
Known For : Pancheshwar Lohaghat Mayawati Ashram
Outlined by valleys of pine and deodar and dotted by cottages with strong hints of colonial charm, this is the one if racing up and down your campus has begun to wear you down already. Escape into this hill station borrowed from the past, for a holiday in the true sense of the word.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Junagarh Fort Karni Mata Temple Gajner Palace
March is perhaps your last chance at Rajasthan before the summers shut down this alternative entirely. The state hosts countless festivals during the month, as it welcomes spring while its palaces and forts keep you busy. While here, don’t leave without setting foot at the Windmill Park, Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer and Junagarh Fort and Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner. Other inevitable to-dos include desert safari and handicrafts, jewellery and clothing haul.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake
Situated close to the Pakistan Border, Jaisalmer is a major tourist spot located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan in India. It is called the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes flowing in the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples, havelis and castles clad in golden yellowish sandstone. Climb on to the camel saddle and make your way through this desert or camp under the night sky in this golden land for an unforgettable experience. If you are a person who loves sands, camel rides, culture and heritage this mid-sem break you can give a visit to Bikaner and Jaisalmer.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Fort Ater Bateshwar Temples
This one has boat rides, endangered species like Gharials, turtles and river dolphins, a fort and medieval temples. At the heart of this landscape is the Chambal river and a river safari does quite the justice to it. You’ll also spot camel and horse rides and typical jeep safaris.
Best Time: November to March
Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat
For mornings and afternoons at Himalayan foothills and all the adventure that the terrain could possibly offer and evenings at cafes and a hippie culture this one has acquired, Rishikesh is always an essential in spite the genre. From the rafting trip you have been willing to take, to bungee jumping, camping, trekking, mountain biking- this one never runs out of options.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
If you want to do something different this mid sem, visit this one for the Ganges and the charm the river manages to cast over an entire city to instances of Mughlai cuisine and heritage. Witness the Ganga Arti, the tantalizing streets as well as the heritage walks and royal delicacies.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Bara Imambara Chota Imambara British Residency
A city of kebabs and nawabs, of architecture and history, of literature and culture – that is Lucknow in a nutshell for you. The capital and the largest city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, situated on the banks of river Gomti, welcomes you with a heartwarming note of "Muskuraiyein, kyunki aap Lucknow mein hai". Known as the ‘City of Nawabs’, Lucknow has a charm to it that is hard to resist. While the city itself is rich and opulent, the people of Lucknow also follow an endearing 'pehle aap' (you first) culture, which always leaves behind a smile on the faces of its visitors. From a slice of rich colonial history to modernized museums, the 'City of Nawabs' beautifully brings together the opulence of a glittering past and the simplicity of a modern city. If you wish to complete your mid-sem break with a holy touch along with some adventure activities then you must choose Varanasi and Lucknow tour. The cities offer a whole range of things to do such as boat rides, heritage, street food and lots more.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple
This one has everything that can become an instant favourite, from elaborate monasteries, countless treks and views to the much loved Tibetan cuisine. There is no way you leave this town without visiting Namgyal Monastery, Triund and gazing out to Dhauladhar peaks. Do shop for Tibetan and Buddhist sovereigns and hoard momos.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Cafes in Kasol
Rafting, trekking, backpacking, a hushed hippie culture, rivers, hills, cafes, an Israeli influence and so much more than what meets the eye are what define Kasol and Tosh. A Himalayan landscape and the Parvati River give you the refreshing break you need to make it through the rest of the semester.
Best Time: October to June
Popular for its cannabis plantations, the tranquil village of Tosh is just another example of the unparalleled natural beauty that Himachal holds within its bounds. Located at the far end of Parvati Valley, Tosh is untouched by modernisation and fast-paced life. With its gradual terrain and the waters of river Parvathi flowing through its bosom, the trek of Tosh is the go-to expedition for all adrenaline junkies. The hippie culture and otherworldly vibe of this village will surely transport you to another world. So, adventure junkies there you go, Kasol and Tosh are the ideal places to visit this mid-sem break.
Known For : Reserve Forest Sanctuary Craignano WildFlower Hall Hotel
7kms away from Shimla, this one is an escape from its tourist rush for a quieter, calmer, cozy and idle vacation. Don’t miss Carignano while here and one may also walk down the Mall road in Shimla, for when you begin to miss its hustle bustle.
Best Time: April to June
Known For : Panchpula Khajjiar Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
A picture perfect hill station with a wildlife sanctuary, waterfalls, treks and nature trails plus Khajjiar which is known not only for its natural beauty which lets it be compared to Switzerland one too many times but also a lake, trekking, zorbing, a golf course and more.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Khajjiar lake Homestay Experience in Khajjiar Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
A picture perfect hill station with a wildlife sanctuary, waterfalls, treks and nature trails plus Khajjiar which is known not only for its natural beauty which lets it be compared to Switzerland one too many times but also a lake, trekking, zorbing, a golf course and more. If Waterfalls, lush green scenery, beautiful trees are your thing then Dalhousie and Khajjiar must be in your bucket list.
Best Time: Throughout the year
What could be better than visiting new places with your best friends? Don't let your holidays go waste. Visit these awesome places to refresh yourself from exam pressure.