A Father's Day To Remember: Top 5 Resorts For The Ultimate Dad Getaway
If you are planning to go the extra mile on Father's Day this year, ditch the usual gifts and treat your dad to a luxurious getaway.
Father's Day is a good time to show your appreciation for your dad. This year, go beyond the usual gifts and treat your dad to something truly memorable – a weekend escape from the city. A short getaway to a serene resort can offer him the perfect opportunity to unwind, soak in nature, and spend quality time with you.
Whether he's drawn to wellness therapies, peaceful landscapes, or simply a break from the everyday hustle, these handpicked resorts across India promise just the right backdrop for relaxation and connection.
Mayfair Spring Valley, Guwahati
Located in the hills of Tepesia near Guwahati, this resort is surrounded by nature. It offers spacious rooms, suites, cottages, and villas with clear views of the landscape and a lush green valley. Your father can relax in the outdoor pools, choose from spa treatments like Mayfair Signature Massage, Aromatherapy, and Deep Tissue Massages, and join a mango-themed brunch. If your dad is spiritually inclined, consider a visit to the nearby Kamakhya Temple – one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. The resort itself offers a serene atmosphere with beautifully maintained gardens, soothing live music in the evenings, and a peaceful setting that's perfect for meaningful conversations and shared moments.
The Tamara, Coorg
Located in the hills and coffee estates of Coorg, The Tamara offers wooden cottages. Each cottage has a private sun deck that looks out onto plantations or the forest. The resort includes nature-based activities like plantation walks, birdwatching, and forest treks. It focuses on both comfort and sustainable practices. If your father enjoys spending time outdoors but also likes privacy and rest, this is a suitable choice.
Set on a 100-acre estate in the Himalayan foothills near Rishikesh, Ananda is a wellness retreat known for its structured health programs. Each room, suite, and villa includes a private balcony with views of the Ganges valley. Your father can follow a personalised plan with yoga, meditation, fitness, and Ayurvedic treatments, all guided by trained professionals. The spa covers 25,000 square feet and includes hydrotherapy pools and healthy meals. Whether he is new to wellness or already follows a routine, this is a place to focus on health and rest.
Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerala
If your father enjoys being near water, this resort is a good choice. Located on the banks of Lake Vembanad in Kerala, Kumarakom Lake Resort features traditional-style villas, many with open-air bathrooms and private plunge pools. A 250-meter-long pool flows through the property, connecting several villas and giving guests the feeling of swimming through Kerala's backwaters. The quiet setting by the lake will give him time to rest and rejuvenate.
Club Mahindra Emerald Palms, Goa
If your father likes holidays with beach visits and fun activities, this resort in South Goa is perfect for him. Located near Varca and Benaulim beaches, Club Mahindra Emerald Palms has modern rooms, open green spaces, and family-friendly services. Your father can visit spice farms, join Goan cooking classes, or ride a bicycle through nearby villages.
First Published:
June 14, 2025, 15:02 IST
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
8 hours ago
- News18
GK: Top 10 Visa-Free Countries For Indian Passport Holders
Last Updated: GK: Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to more countries than ever, with destinations like Nepal, Bhutan, Mauritius, and Dominica offering up to six months' stay. General Knowledge: Indian passport holders in 2025 have more travel freedom than ever before, with access to a record number of visa-free destinations. This expansion of hassle-free travel is the result of India's growing diplomatic influence and strengthened global partnerships, making it easier, faster, and cheaper for citizens to explore the world. Whether you are a frequent flyer or someone planning your very first international trip, the ability to bypass long visa application processes can be a game-changer. No embassy queues, no stacks of paperwork, just your passport, a boarding pass, and the thrill of discovery. While 'visa-free" means you don't need prior approval to enter, it doesn't mean you can stay indefinitely. Most countries allow stays ranging from two weeks to several months, and may require proof of funds, return tickets, or hotel bookings. Overstaying could result in penalties, so it's important to check the rules before you travel. Based on 2025 data compiled by Forbes, here are 10 top visa-free countries for Indian passport holders — each offering unique experiences for different types of travellers. 1. Nepal – No Limit on Stay A Himalayan neighbour and close cultural cousin, Nepal is as accessible as it is captivating. From trekking the Annapurna Circuit to soaking in the peaceful vibes of Pokhara and exploring Kathmandu's temples, the country offers endless adventure without any visa restrictions for Indians. 2. Bhutan – 14 Days The 'Land of the Thunder Dragon" invites Indian travellers to enjoy its pristine mountains, colourful monasteries, and spiritual calm for up to two weeks visa-free. Bhutan's unique focus on Gross National Happiness adds a special charm to every visit. 3. Macao – 30 Days Known for its dazzling casinos and Portuguese-Chinese heritage, Macao offers a rich mix of entertainment, history, and cuisine. Indian travellers can enjoy 30 days here without a visa, exploring everything from street food markets to UNESCO-listed sites. 4. Mauritius – 90 Days With its white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and multicultural charm, Mauritius is a dream holiday destination. Indian visitors can spend up to three months visa-free, making it perfect for extended stays. 5. Thailand – 60 Days From the bustling streets of Bangkok to Chiang Mai's temples and Phuket's beaches, Thailand offers a mix of culture, nightlife, and relaxation. Indian travellers can now enjoy up to 60 days without a visa. 6. Barbados – 90 Days This Caribbean paradise offers Indian citizens 90 days visa-free, with experiences ranging from snorkelling in Carlisle Bay to enjoying calypso music during the famous Crop Over Festival. 7. Fiji – 120 Days A South Pacific gem, Fiji welcomes Indians for up to four months visa-free. Think island-hopping, coral reefs, and authentic village experiences, plus some of the friendliest locals in the world. 8. Senegal – 90 Days For an offbeat adventure, Senegal in West Africa offers vibrant street music, bustling Dakar markets, and unique sights like the pink waters of Lake Retba, all visa-free for up to 90 days. 9. Trinidad and Tobago – 90 Days This twin-island Caribbean nation offers a lively Carnival, steelpan music, and mouth-watering street food. Visitors can explore for up to 90 days without a visa. 10. Dominica – 180 Days Dubbed the 'Nature Island," Dominica boasts volcanoes, waterfalls, and tropical rainforests. Indian passport holders can enjoy up to six months here visa-free, making it ideal for long stays. view comments First Published: August 12, 2025, 15:37 IST News education-career GK: Top 10 Visa-Free Countries For Indian Passport Holders Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
10 hours ago
- NDTV
Nepal Waives Climbing Fee For 97 Peaks To Boost Tourism
Nepal is making nearly 100 of its Himalayan mountains free to climb for the next two years. The Himalayan nation's government has waived the royalty for 97 peaks in the provinces of Karnali and Sudurpashchim. The step aims to draw mountaineers to the less developed region bordering China. Nepal has opened 491 peaks, but tourists mainly focus on the 25 of them in the country's northeast and central regions, including Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, which hundreds of people attempt to climb annually. The country has also hiked the permit prices beginning in September to $350 for a lower peak, up from $250 previously, and to $15,000 for Everest from $11,000, the first such increase in nearly a decade. The fee for mountains in the Karnali and Sudurpaschim regions, where peaks range from 5,970 metres to 7,132 metres, will be waived. Located in the far-western region of Nepal, these provinces are among the poorest and least developed in the country. Mountaineering is a major source of revenue for Nepal, which is home to the ten tallest mountains. Last year, climbing fees generated $5.9 million, with Everest accounting for over three-quarters of it. The country's tourism department expressed hope that the effort would highlight the "unexplored tourism products and destinations". According to Himal Gautam, a Tourism Department official, the move to waive permit costs for 97 peaks is intended to encourage mountaineering on smaller mountains in remote locations. Speaking with Reuters, Mr Gautam said, "The idea is to encourage climbers to go to unexplored yet scenic areas and mountain peaks." Of these peaks, twenty are in Sudurpaschim and seventy-seven are in Karnali province, according to The Kathmandu Post. "Despite their breathtaking beauty, the number of tourists and mountaineers here is very low as access is so difficult. We hope the new provision will help. They can create jobs, generate income, and strengthen the local economy," Mr Gautam was quoted as saying by the outlet. The removal of the permit fee will boost tourism and improve economic conditions in the least developed region of the country, he said. The country's parliament is debating a law requiring climbers to summit a mountain over 7,000m before attempting Everest, which makes the Karnali and Sudurpaschim peaks an ideal training ground, The Kathmandu Post reported.
India.com
10 hours ago
- India.com
7 Magical Tourist Destinations In Dalhousie That Feel Straight Out Of a Storybook And Will Mesmerise You Completely
Dalhousie isn't just a hill station. It's a mood. When the first morning mist curls over the Dhauladhar ranges, something stirs. The pines stand taller. The air smells like a poem. And somewhere between the British-era churches and quiet mountain paths, a softer, slower Dalhousie begins to speak. Most tourists come for Khajjiar — the 'Mini Switzerland of India.' They take a few photos. Eat some maggi. Leave. But what if we told you Dalhousie isn't for ticking boxes? It's for wandering. For stepping off Mall Road's bustle into trails that hum with cicadas, whispering pine needles, and stories carried in the cold mountain wind. Let's leave the main square. The hills are calling. What makes Dalhousie's charm different from anywhere else in Himachal? It's not just the views. It's the pace. Dalhousie isn't in a hurry. Its five hills — Bakrota, Kathlog, Potreyn, Terah, and Bhangora — are stitched together with winding lanes, old colonial houses, and trails that seem to exist only for the joy of walking. Unlike Manali's tourist traffic or Shimla's crowded ridge, Dalhousie offers space to breathe. Here, clouds stroll through the valleys without rush. Sunlight plays hide-and-seek with cedar branches. And even the shopkeepers pause to chat like old friends. This is a place where time takes the long route — and so should you. Tired of Khajjiar? These gems are waiting for you 1. Dainkund Peak – The Singing Hill Perched at 2,755 metres, Dainkund isn't just about the view — though you'll see snow-capped peaks stretch endlessly. What makes it special is the music. As the wind sweeps through pine and deodar trees, it hums — a natural melody that gave this place its name. In monsoon, wildflowers dot the slopes. In winter, snow crunches under your boots. A short trek from the base road takes you to the Pholani Devi Temple. From here, the valley rolls away in waves of green and gold. Come early. The song of Dainkund is best heard before the chatter of visitors begins. 2. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary – Where the Forest Holds Its Breath This is Dalhousie's wild heart. Sprawling over 30 square kilometres, Kalatop is a tangle of oak, rhododendron, and deodar. The road from Lakkar Mandi to Kalatop is a slow climb into shadow and birdsong. Keep your eyes open — pheasants dart across the path, and if you're lucky, you might spot a Himalayan black bear in the distance. In summer, the forest smells of pine resin. In autumn, it glows amber. In winter, it turns into a silent snow maze. Walk the trails. Stop often. Listen more than you speak. 3. Chamera Lake – Dalhousie's Shimmering Escape Man-made, yet magical, Chamera Lake sits about 25 km from the town. Fed by the Ravi River, it reflects both the sky's moods and your own. Here, you can take a quiet boat ride, watch the hills ripple in the water, or simply sit on the banks with a thermos of chai. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the sun drops low and the lake turns to liquid gold. 4. Panchpula – Where Streams Tell Stories Just a few kilometres from Dalhousie, Panchpula is where gurgling streams meet pine-scented air. A small monument here honours Sardar Ajit Singh, a freedom fighter. But beyond the memorial lies a network of short trails and waterfalls. In monsoon, the water rushes faster. In winter, it slows to a gentle trickle. Either way, the sound is soothing — like a conversation you don't have to answer. 5. St. John's Church – Time Travel in Stone and Glass Dalhousie's oldest church, built in 1863, stands quietly amidst tall deodars. The stained-glass windows, imported from England, throw jewel-toned light onto worn wooden pews. It's not just a place of worship. It's a slice of history that has watched the town change from a British retreat to a modern hill station. If you visit on a misty morning, the church seems to float in a cloud. 6. Bakrota Hills – The Loop with a View The Bakrota loop road is more than a scenic drive — it's a meditation. This circular route offers panoramic views of snow peaks and valleys, with every bend revealing a new perspective. In spring, wildflowers edge the road. In winter, snow dusts the pines. And all year round, the air is crisp and clean. Walk a stretch if you can. The slower you go, the more you see. 7. Satdhara Falls – Seven Streams of Calm Satdhara means 'seven springs,' and true to its name, seven streams merge here, believed to have medicinal properties. The falls are a short walk from Panchpula, and the sound of water mingling with wind is its own therapy. Pack a small picnic. Stay awhile. Let the mist settle on your skin. Why explore Dalhousie beyond the obvious? Isn't the town small? Yes. And that's the beauty. Dalhousie isn't about rushing from one 'spot' to another. It's about sinking into the rhythm of the hills. Here's what these lesser-known places give you that the crowded centre won't: Quiet trails where your footsteps are the only sound. Views unbroken by selfie sticks. A slower heartbeat — yours, matching the mountains. Practical Tips: How to Wander Dalhousie Like a Local 1. Dress for layers – Mornings can be chilly, afternoons sunny, evenings cold again. A light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf will serve you well. 2. Carry snacks and water – Many trails and viewpoints have no shops. Keep some fruit, nuts, or a chocolate bar handy. 3. Start early – Whether it's Dainkund or Kalatop, mornings offer clearer skies and fewer people. 4. Respect nature – Don't litter. Don't play loud music. Let the hills keep their peace. 5. Talk to locals – They'll tell you stories you won't find in guidebooks. The Quiet Economy of Dalhousie's Hidden Corners When you walk beyond Khajjiar, you do more than explore. You contribute. You buy tea from small stalls instead of big cafes. You encourage eco-tourism, which helps protect the forests. You keep lesser-known spots alive by showing they matter. Every photo from Bakrota Hills, every step in Kalatop, is proof that Dalhousie is more than its postcard views. Final Thoughts Don't just visit Dalhousie. Let it slow you down. The next time you're here, don't stick to the checklist. Take the road that curves into the pines. Sit by a stream without checking the time. Watch the clouds drift like lazy travellers across the sky. Because Dalhousie doesn't just change your view. It changes your pace. And maybe, just maybe — that's what you've been looking for all along.
