Where To Spend The New Year’s When In India?

I don’t know about you; but I have already begun making my New Year’s plans. This year I have decided on a destination that I have always had on my mind. Watching the Julia Roberts starrer ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ based on Gilbert’s book that goes by the same name has made things worse for me. I just have to (read: HAVE TO) go to India this New Year’s Eve.

While I knew I wanted to go to India, I wasn’t sure where it was that I should zero in on within the territory of India. I don’t about your preconceptions about the place; but what I heard, it’s pretty huge a place; and you wouldn’t be able to do it justice in one trip. So there it was, there was a legitimate reason to research the place and my options.

I decided that the best person to ask help from would be my colleague back in Mumbai; and so I shot her a mail asking her for suggestions. Her reply left me in the lurch. She asked me, what kind of a holiday would I be looking for – spiritual, let-your-hair-down, relax in green gardens, enjoy the backwaters, soak in the culture, etc etc! This was going to be tougher than I thought. So I made it slightly easier by asking her where it is that she thinks I should go. So she sent me a reply; and based on that I drew up this list of places that one must go to when in India for New Year’s.

Goa:

Goa is considered the Las Vegas of India. Well, it may look nothing like Vegas, but the atmosphere is said to be magical nonetheless. Idyllic beaches, free flowing booze and one massive party that never seems to be stopping- that’s how she described Goa. Well, it hardly comes as a wonder then, that the place is quite the tourist hub.

Jaisalmer:

This New Year destination is a little more up to the north of India; and is said to be a great option for those who like to choose the path not so oft taken. You could spend your New Year’s Eve camping on some sand dunes; or taking a camel safari ride. The impressive forts only add to the charm of the place.

Mcleodganj:

Well, as my colleague put it, chances are that quite a few Indians would not even know about this place; but she did because she’d made a trip here once before. This is a quaint hill town that is in Dharamshala. That’s up north again. You can actually cover the whole town on foot within the span of one hour. But the best part is that you will never be bored nonetheless. This would be the budget holidayer’s delight.

Puducherry:

I didn’t even know they’d changed the name of this place. I had earlier heard of Pondicherry; but now it’s called Puducherry. The seafront will greet you with fireworks as the clock strikes 12. Don’t miss out on the live music and the folk dance/song performances. The restaurants are generally open through the night and liquor is cheap. Need say more?

Well, at the end of the day, my choice is made. I am headed to Goa; and if you’re going to be there too, I hope to bump into you. Cheers!