Mother’s Day is right around the corner and it’s the perfect time to appreciate her for all she is. She’s your confidant, she knows your moods better than you, she’s your biggest cheerleader and agree or not, she has your best interest at heart, always! With all the roles she juggles, there’s no arguing the point that she needs a break, and no one deserves it more than her. Plus you know what the best part is? The special day is on a weekend so you can easily plan a self-drive trip for a perfect getaway!
Mahabaleshwar
If you stay in Mumbai or Pune, you cannot go wrong with a weekend trip to Mahabaleshwar and neighbouring Panchgani. The two hill stations lie in the midst of the forests of the Western Ghats, and while the days are pretty hot, evenings and nights are cool. It is a welcome break from the humidity of the plains and the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy the strawberries and assorted confectioneries at the Mapro Gardens and explore the viewpoints around Mahabaleshwar, or take a trek to Pratapgad if you are up for it.
Goa
For those who stay in Maharashtra or Karnataka, Goa is a destination that is appealing no matter what time of the year. The place does have a reputation for hard partying, but Goa has its fair share of chilled out beaches that are perfect for family outings. Sinquerium Beach in Candolim is a great secluded beach if your mother prefers the roar of the ocean over the beats of EDM. Vagator Beach is another good option; the beach is relatively free of crowds and you also have other sights nearby, like Chapora Fort. And the expansive Baga Beach is also a good place to visit despite the crowds because of its water sports and nearby shacks that offer delectable delicacies.
Coorg
From the beaches of Goa we move to Karnataka’s popular hill station, Coorg, officially named Kodagu. The weather should be pleasant and cool even now, and there are plenty of things to see and do over here. Treat your mother to some of the region’s authentic Kodava cuisine, with a variety of chutneys and pickles to savour. Tibetan cuisine is also available here. As for sights, Raja’s Seat is a popular point from which you an imposing top view of the Western Ghats. Abbey Falls in Madikeri and the island of Cauvery Nisargadhama in the middle of the Cauvery River are also worth a visit.
Munnar
Lying around 1,600 meters above sea level and at the confluence of the Kundala, Mudrapuzha and Nallathanni streams, Munnar is a perfect little hill station for a getaway in Kerala. Munnar offers plenty of beautiful, lush tea gardens, winding lanes and postcard-perfect views of hills covered in mist. Spend the time with your mother and explore the forests around the hill station. You can also trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India at 2,695 meters. There is also the Eravikulam National Park with its rare species of birds and butterflies, boating along Mattupetty Lake and picnicking at Pallivasal.
