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Travel bucket list for 2017

From family-run small bed and breakfast accommodations, hostels to budget homestays, here’s a list of affordable Indian destinations ideal for teen travellers

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With year-end festivities at its peak, it’s time for travellers to start mapping out their 2017 travel bucket list. And as a teen, the possibilities are limitless. Don’t worry about feeling compelled to travel with your family because #moneymatters. India has many ideal destinations that complement a teen’s saved-up-pocket -money budgets. Here is a list oft-visited places but tailored to serve your shoestring travel budget.

Hampi

Explore the remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire based in Hampi, a quaint town dotted with architectural masterpieces. Located within the ruins of Vijayanagara, Hampi hosts monuments dating back to 1500 AD. Apart from heritage walks across temples, the historical town also offers coconut basket boat rides and hosts little flea markets serving local cuisines and handmade toys. Tongas are the best way to commute within the village area from one temple to the other.

Stay at: Lakshmi Heritage tourist home, Hampi Jungle Tree and Siri Homestay

Goa

Goa is the hotspot for most travellers seeking a budget trip. If this is your debut into the adult world of vacationing with your friends, let it begin on a laid-back beach vibe. Apart from its world-famous golden sand beaches and blue shores, Goa is home to many historical tourist points, like the quaint lanes of Vasco De Gama, or Old Goa which hosts historical sites such as UNESCO listed Basilica of Bom Jesus or the 16th century-old Portuguese church, Se Cathedral. Travelling within Goa is easy, as apart from renting scooters for a Rs. 500 a day, one can always opt for a pilot who drives you through the state. Aside from hotels, one can explore accommodation at hostels, or apartments rented out by local families, who will also take care of one’s meals if requested.

Stay at: Wanderer’s Hostel in Morjim, Castello’s Coco Huts in Benaulim and No Name Hostel at Arambol.

Darjeeling

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling makes for an amazing summer destination. Apart from travelling in the UNESCO heritage site Toy train introduced in 1881, the city is home to monasteries like the GhumMonastry. Tiger Hill is perfect for camping and treks, escorted by local guides. Besides sipping hot, freshly brewed tea, local cuisine will not cost one more than Rs. 400 to Rs. 500 a day. Adventure sports for teenagers includes kayaking and paragliding. Thereare jungle safaris to Sandakphu, Phalut and Singalila national park.

Stay at: Golden Orchids – The Lodge, Vikkyz Homestay and Mount Olive

Kasol

On the way towards Manikarna is the serene village of Kasol. Popular amongst most backpackers, this village in Kullu on the banks of River Parvati, offers everything one seeks on a trip to a hill station. From taking long treks to Kheer Ganga, to indulging in authentic Israeli delicacies cooked by the large expat population living in the town, this Himalayan destination is good to celebrate a long weekend.

Stay at: The Hosteller Kasol, Katagla Forest Retreat and Parvati Wood Camps

Auli

Surrounded by dense coniferous and oak trees in Uttarakhand, Auli is the Himalayan ski destination. Apart from hosting devotees of the Badrinath temple, the hill station also has a stunning flower valley, national parks with snow leopards and red foxes. The hill station can be reached using cable cars.  Once at the top the experience is  unmatchable. Certified trainers ensure safety measures for first-time skiers, be they adults or teenagers. While hotels in Auli town can get expensive, the Joshimath town at the foothill has affordable motels for budget travellers. The locals are warm and homely.

Stay at: The Tattava, Auli Resort and Malari Inn

Mcleod Ganj

Hosting a large Tibetan population, the suburban vicinity of Dharamshala is just a bus journey away from Pathankhot in Punjab. Popular amongst trekkers, the hill station houses monasteries and temples and offers unmatchable views of the Himalayan ranges. Those travelling solely to trek might consider the Triund trek, which includes accommodations and guided tours of the valley and uphill, all at nominal costs. A visit to Mcleodganj, which is the capital of the Tibetan government in exile, is also a perfect opportunity to savour authentic Tibetan delicacies like thukpa and momos.

Stay at: Gipsy Kings Homestay, Bogdo House and Silvermoon House

Gokarna

Long weekend? And not sure where to head? Take a train and head straight to Gokarna, a beach destination close to Bengaluru. With Om beach at its centre, the destination serves as a peaceful place with local fishermen offering free fishing trips on their boats. Budget homestays make it easier for teenagers to explore the culture of the locals while indulging in warm home-cooked meals. The place offers various water activities like banana boat rides, jet skiing and speed boating for the thrill seekers. You may also witness campfires across the beach and groove to some local music.

Stay at: Namaste Yoga Farm, Nimmu House and Kawari Resorts

Rishikesh

Teen adventure seekers will love Rishikesh for its white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking and camping opportunities. Camps on the banks of the Ganges offer full-board packages that include one or two river rafting trips, stay in tents with all meals.   

Stay at: Bonfire Hostels, Tourist Guest House and HillTop Swiss Cottage

NB: Booking.com offers the widest range of accommodations including bed & breakfast, homestays, hostels, guesthouses etc for travellers looking for budget accommodation.

(The author is Regional Manager – India at Booking.com)

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