Alka Gurha
Short vacations are a great way to de-stress and explore new surroundings away from the city. Given the uncertainties of life, sometimes we are unable to book flights or trains, and pre-plan a holiday. This is when we need a short staycation accessible by road. Earlier it was for birthdays or anniversaries, but now festivals are also occasions for Delhi-NCR folks to head out with their loved ones. This Rakshabandhan, most resorts were fully booked, with families celebrating the brother-sister bond at nearby locations.
Having lived in Gurgaon for over 20 years, I have explored several resorts and weekend destinations. So, I’m more than happy to shortlist a few options for weekend stays not too far from the Millennium City, all of which give you a feel of escaping the city and yet reaching your getaway within 1-2 hours.
Courtyard by Marriott Resort
Let me begin with a relatively new luxury retreat nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Aravallis – Courtyard by Marriott Resort, Aravalli. Google Maps took me to the resort via the Mumbai Expressway and, latterly, the Sohna-Ballabhgarh highway. The entire route has good roads, barring a small stretch of approach road. Courtyard by Marriott’s high points are the yummy food at the Aravalli Kitchen, and a pool that is as stunning as it is expansive. If you have a choice, go for a pool-facing room on the ground floor, which allows easy access to the pool from your veranda. This is a pet-friendly property and also a great venue for destination weddings.
Westin Sohna Resort & Spa
Just 5kms before Courtyard by Marriott, if you take a right turn you will reach The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa, a sprawling property with a mini zoo and a small water body. Spread across lush greenery and far away from city pollution, Westin makes for an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of Gurgaon. The resort offers 97 spacious – and pet-friendly – villas, with a private pool attached to some luxury villas. There’s something here for everyone – from cycling and hiking around Damdama Lake to exploring the Kamboj ruins. The highlight of this property is the water body (restored by the resort), and a mini zoo for the kids. I was fortunate enough to wake up to peacocks dancing on the roof of my villa!
Karma Chalets and Karma Lakelands
If you wish to explore open spaces and indulge in outdoor activities, pet-friendly Karma Chalets and Karma Lakelands is another wonderful option on the Jaipur highway. This idyllic getaway stretches across 270 acres and boasts several boutique chalets and water bodies. With their small gardens and fences, the chalets take you back to a fairytale world. Studio Magnolia, Rabbit’s Burrow, Sparrow’s Nest and Eagle’s Perch are villas of different sizes (according to the number of family members). Karma Lakelands is famous for its ‘Under the Neem’ restaurant that embraces the farm-to-table concept – don’t forget to get your picture clicked on the swing hanging from the ancient neem tree! The standout for me was the Nimoli Spa and the verdant golf course dotted with trees and sparkling water bodies. No wonder this boutique layout – designed by Pacific Coast Design of Melbourne, Australia – boasts award-winning credentials.
Heritage Village Resorts and Spa
If you wish to experience Rajasthani charm in Gurgaon, head to the Heritage Village Resorts and Spa, Manesar. Situated on the Dehi-Jaipur highway, a 30-minute drive from the centre of Gurgaon, this luxurious Rajasthani haveli greets you with its manicured lawns and ethnic appeal. Pets are welcome here, and are allowed in most areas barring the main dining hall. Heritage presents complimentary weekend activities like the Organic Garden Tour and Yoga (with a professional instructor), to keep you occupied. Meanwhile, the Aruna Spa and a well-equipped gym will keep the fitness enthusiasts busy. I was particularly enamoured of the traditional Rajasthani experience, so close to Gurgaon.
Lalit Mangar
Very close to Faridabad, Lalit Mangar is another beautiful escape set in the lap of the Aravallis. Although this gated property lacks open lawns, it is surrounded by the hillocks of Mangar Bani, a lush-green forest grove. Lalit Mangar is an experiential hotel with some 35 luxurious suites built using the unique rammed-earth concept, which keeps the 15-inch walls insulated from extreme heat and cold. The kitchen utilises organic vegetables, most of which are grown in-house. And if you are seeking adventure, Lalit Mangar offers zip-lining, cycling, rock-climbing, and rappelling. I loved the location, and the poolside views of the surrounding area.
ITC Grand Bharat
Last but not the least, the ITC Grand Bharat is the ultimate when it comes to luxury and grandeur. The hotel has provided the backdrop for several Bollywood weddings, including that of Kriti Kharbanda and Pulkit Samrat. The approach road to this majestic structure gives you an idea of the exclusivity of this seven-star property. It’s a huge resort with four Presidential Villas, 100 suites, a 27-hole Signature Golf Course, and Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa. The architectural detailing draws inspiration from the temples of Odisha, the Varanasi Ghats, and Gujarati palaces. The ITC Grand Bharat retreat offers a gamut of leisure activities like the Segway Tour, croquet, tennis and archery, among others. The highlight for me was the interconnected water bodies with every villa – and the soothing sound of the gurgling water.
