List of domestic destinations you can travel now

With over a year spent cooped up within our houses, it’s been easy to forget the thrill of adventure, the satisfaction of packed bags and the luxury of new experiences feel like. Most of us have tried to find alternatives to keep ourselves occupied, whether it’s whipping up fancy dishes at home or making work from home the new ‘cool’. But even as we browse through images and videos of various beautiful destinations across the country and the world, nothing beats the joy and wonder of travelling to these cities ourselves.

Although the year 2021 so far has had a rough ride with the outbreak of the second wave, with the government’s gaining control of the situation, the outlook for travel is slowly but surely starting to look up. With vaccination drives in full swing and people getting back in shape, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Airport (CSMIA) has already witnessed the return of the early travellers. While international travel still remains a distant dream, some Indian states have changed their regulations and no longer require travellers to undergo the RT-PCR test upon arrival at their borders. Here is a list of destinations that you can fly to via CSMIA to satiate the thirst for adventure:

1. Delhi

A city of treasure where the ancient rich history and the thriving present blend seamlessly together, Delhi is a go-to destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in the cultural diaspora of the country. Enjoy the fascinating glimpse into the past in Old Delhi, with its labyrinth of narrow lanes, old Havelis, and colourful bazaars, while taking a tour of the extensive Metro network that connects all corners of Delhi. Delhi is a home to three World Heritage monuments—Qutub Minar, Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb that have survived many centuries, making it the fabulously photogenic corner of the city. Feasting on Punjabi Kulchas, Chole Bhature orenjoy Dilli-ki-Chaat – Delhi’s famously delicious street food between your meetings, you will be hard pushed to ever forget your time in this wonderfully chaotic yet beautiful place with CSMIA offering direct flights.

(Delhi is conducting a random test for passengers arriving from high-risk cities)

2. Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is laced with magnificent ruins and the iconic Tirupati Balaji, alternatively known as the lord Venkatesa temple, at the foot of Tirumala hills has attracted travellers from the world across. Once done with indulging in the divinity of these temples, Andhra’s fascinating hills and caves would be on the list of every adventure seeker making a checklist. If cave tourism is what you’re planning about on your next trip to Andhra, then these direct flights from CSMIA, Mumbai will help you get started.

3. Telangana

The state provides a variety of experiences whether it is spending the day admiring the architectural wonders such as the Charminar or the grandeur of the Golconda Fort or indulging in the local cuisine and delicacies. Lesser-known gourmet heaven, Telangana offers culinary delights such the Golichina Mamsam, Sarva Pindi, Sakinalu and the iconic Hyderabadi Biryani. If food is not what makes you take a flight, then the local flea markets definitely will get you hyped. From Hyderabadi pearls to the kalamkari fabric work there are more ways than one that Telangana lets you indulge. Direct flights from CSMIA with will take you right to the heart of this cultural one-stop-shop.

4. Karnataka

The charm of Karnataka lies in the diversity of this cosmopolitan centre. Home to the IT hub of South Asia, Karnataka is in equal parts earthy and modern. At its nerve centre is the capital, Bengaluru (Bangalore), a progressive cybercity; heading out of town you’ll encounter the evergreen rolling hills of Kodagu and the ancient remains of the Vijayanagara empire is one of the many facets of this dynamic state. The popular hill stations such as Chikmagalur is just as exciting as the varied wildlife witnessed during the exciting wildlife safari. Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, sloth bears, leopards, or reptiles and birds will have you captivated right till you move your attention to the Kodachadri and the Nandi Hills. If that all sounds too mainstream, head to the virtually untouched coastline around Gokarna, blessed with beautiful coves and empty sands. Direct flights from CSMIA will take you to the favourite city of Karnataka.

5. Gujarat (Vadodara and Rajkot)

A favourite among the wildlife enthusiasts, Gujarat, has continued to retain the position of one most exciting destinations to visit for those seeking the most thrilling nature safari experience. The Asiatic Lions are not the only royalty that the state prides itself on, the cities of Vadodara and Rajkot, which have now opened up for travellers without the RT-PCR test, are an extension of the same royal opulence. Rajkot among the top 10 cleanest cities of the country was also home to the early life of Mahatma Gandhi whose belongings can be viewed at the Kaba Gandhi No Delo, the childhood house of the leader. While the palatial city of Vadodara also houses the Maratha royal Gaekwad dynasty. Direct flights running from CSMIA will take travellers directly to Vadodara and Rajkot

6. Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is a land of cultural and religious heritage that offers you the vast plethora of history and beauty that it holds. Famed for its Dravidian-style Hindu temples, Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple – high ‘gopuram’ towers ornamented with colourful figures is one of the most famous places to visit. When the heat of Tamil temple towns overwhelms, escape to the tip of India – Kanyakumari or the beautiful hill station of Ooty or to the splendid mansions sprinkled across Chettinadu. Escape to the South Indian states for a distinct experience from CSMIA direct flights.

Please note that if you are travelling to Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, an RT-PCR report not earlier than 72 hours before departure may be required.

With the nation opening up and people dusting off their travel diaries once again, we have numerous mesmerizing Indian states eager to welcome adventure souls and vacation lovers. The lands have been lonely for far too long and the time has come to take the trips to your favourite Indian destinations once again. All aboard the Indian flight!