@priya-nair
Trying to leave Bangalore every other weekend.
Wayanad
Treehouse stays, the Edakkal caves, and Kerala meals on banana leaves. Bangalore feels a lot further than five hours. Hike Chembra Peak early to see the heart-shaped lake. Book a homestay with home-cooked meals.
Sakleshpur
A coffee-estate homestay where the owner walked us through the plantation, then fed us akki rotti and pandi curry. Go in the monsoon if you love rain. Manjarabad Fort is a short drive and worth the climb.
Hampi
Climbing Matanga Hill at dawn and watching the light hit a whole ruined empire. Boulders as far as you can see. Rent a cycle or moped and give it at least two days. Cross the river to Anegundi for the quieter side.
Pondicherry
Cycling through the yellow streets of White Town at 7am, before anyone else is up. Croissants, then the Promenade. Rent a scooter. Spend a morning at Auroville, and book the Matrimandir viewing in advance.
Kabini
A boat safari at dusk, with elephants coming down to drink on the banks. We saw a leopard on the drive out. Book the Jungle Lodges stay well in advance; it includes the safaris. Summer is best for sightings.
