Leave Your Worries Behind & Plan An Escape To These Valleys In 2021

When it comes to swapping the clamour of city life for a few days of tranquillity and being close to nature, valleys are often the sought-after destination in India’s vibrant palette of India’s topography. Sitting in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, the panoramic valleys of the North are adored for their spectacular views and rejuvenating appeal. Meanwhile, the Eastern and Western Ghats’ valleys plunge into breathtaking sights and offer a sanctuary from the concrete jungles we see every day.

So, this year, why not dwell in a magnificent and serene vibe by heading out to these beautiful valleys.

Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Known as the Orchard of Ladakh, Nubra is a valley of flowers and scenic vistas. Encircled by the snowcapped Himalayas, it resembles a winter wonderland in the colder months and is covered by a lush carpet when the weather is warm. To reach the valley, you will cross the immensely popular Khardung La, the highest motorable pass in the world and get a chance to witness the azure waters of Shyok and Nubra river crisscross the landscape. But there’s so much more than meets the eye, aside from its exuberant beauty. The valley houses the Ensa, Samstemling, Diskit and Hunder Buddhist monasteries that give the region a serene and calm vibe. You can also head out to the cold desert between Diskit and Hundur to experience a joyride of the Bactrian (two-humped camels) native to this part. And when the sun sets, make sure to capture the stunning star trails that serve as an excellent canopy for a quiet romantic night.

When in Nubra valley, your journey will take you along steep roads and rocky paths. But these can be easily managed by your Ford Endeavour, with its powerful engine and capable Terrain Management System; all you need to do is set it to the correct terrain, and you can be assured of a comfortable and safe drive. The panoramic sunroof is also sure to take the experience of this scenic road trip up a few notches.

Kudremukh, Karnataka

Lush hills lounging beneath cottony clouds, Kudremukh is a refreshing getaway celebrated for its picturesque beauty and rich biodiversity. Kudremukh means ‘horse’s face’ in Kannada, and since one of the peaks in the valley resembles a horse’s face, that’s where its name comes from. This quaint hill station is replete with thick woodlands, swaying glades and grasslands that make for an ideal spot for birdwatching. An ornithologist’s paradise, the evergreen forest houses 200 species of birds, including rare ones like the imperial pigeon, great pied hornbill Malabar Trogon Malabar Whistling Thrush. Bird watcher or not, your mornings will start on a captivating note surrounded by the scenic vistas and green pastures.

Comfortable seats, rocking tunes and pleasant weather – there’s a lot that goes into making a perfect road trip and the Ford EcoSport ticks every box. Automatic climate control for your preferred cabin temperature, ample boot space for all your luggage and a touchscreen navigation system that ensures minimum hassle on long drives.

Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

Plan a trip to this gorgeous attraction any time of the year, and you’ll be welcomed with a different sight. If you want to chase clear skies and snowcapped mountains, head to this valley between September and December. But if you want to witness a zillion flowers blooming in vibrant hues, Yumthang Valley is best visited from February to March. Located in the valley of flowers, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is home to forty species of rhododendron trees and plants and offers a glimpse into exquisite natural vegetation. This impressive collection of blossoming beauties will leave you in awe and spark the nature lover within, so don’t forget to pack your cameras. You can also visit other breathtaking spots such as Yumthang Chu, or the picture-perfect town of Lachen and end your day gorging on traditional Himalayan cuisine or a plate of piping hot momos.

Travelling with your loved ones means ensuring their safety every step of the way and the enhanced safety features in your Ford Freestyle offer all this and more. Features like Hill Launch Assist, Electronic Stability Control, and Active Rollover Prevention packed in a robust design make it easier and safer to traverse the inclines, twists and turns of gorgeous valleys.

Dzukou Valley, Nagaland

Nestled high amidst the floating clouds, lies a hilly landscape carpeted with vivid greenery and interspersed with bright flowers waving in the wind. The monsoon season marks the first blooms’ appearance, the most special of which is the Dzukou lily that can only be found in this valley. The vibrant blossoms make for an excellent backdrop in photographs, and the amber shades of sunsets over the emerald valley are sure to bring a sense of peaceful joy. Still veiled from crowds, the valley offers a crash course in tuning out the city, while enjoying the solitude that nature brings with it.

If you’re worried about navigating the zigzag roads in the hills, your Ford Figo will make the task effortless. Its compact design and powerful engine allow for easy manoeuvring. It is also equipped with Anti-lock Braking System and Electronic Brake Force Distribution, which give you better control and grip even during difficult driving conditions.

Araku, Andhra Pradesh

If your travelling buddies are a mix of laid-back nature lovers and adventure seekers who can never seem to decide a common vacation spot, Araku might be the getaway you’re seeking. The Eastern Ghats’ lush mountain ranges surround this valley, and the weather from September to May makes Araku perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring caves. But there’s yet another incentive to plan this trip – Araku is home to a coffee museum. Here you can delve into the history of one of the world’s favourite beverages and even sip on a delicious, aromatic cup of coffee. Learning about your beloved cuppa’s journey from Ethiopia to Europe and India, and even bring some home to remember your time in this gorgeous region.

So, if you’re itching to make every trip in this year count, a trip to any of these valleys is sure to be an excellent idea. With the unmatched convenience of your Ford car, your journey will be as beautiful as your destination!