With remote working becoming an accepted norm, young professionals are seeking solace in the mountains, and fulfilling their wanderlust while keeping their productivity high. As the trend becomes a more common occurrence, we suggest three idyllic locales that provide the perfect atmosphere to nest in nature, and make working hard an absolute pleasure. Why restrict yourself to working from home, when you could be enjoying an extended work-ation amidst lush green hills, crisp fresh air, and dense valleys?
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
If you can look past the seasonal tourist crowd and find quaint homestays in some of the less populated regions of the town, Manali offers a perfect combination of secluded spots for working in peace, and popular joints for times when you crave a pleasant bustle around you. Here, you will find the convenience of modern amenities and the distinctive charm of high-altitude living.
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
For a change in scenery, take a one-hour drive to the Kulu Valley, where fairytale cottages and vibrant foliage make for a truly zen-like environment to focus during the day, and completely disconnect as the night falls. Moreover, an hour away from Kulu is the serene hamlet of Kasol, which is perfect for weekend trips full of nature trails, adventurous hikes, riverside reveries and panoramic views of the Himalayan Ranges.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
A favourite among city folk seeking an atmosphere of tranquillity, Rishikesh is a welcome break from noise and excess. Some of the most inviting features here are the vibrant ambience of the town centre, the white rapids of the Ganga, and the gentle comfort of cosy cafes, where you can enjoy a warm beverage while facing the hills, as you tick the checklist throughout your workday. On your days off, sign up for yoga workshops, meditation retreats, and the mandatory rafting excursions. If you want to explore further, Dehradun is a short drive away. Here, nature lovers can take trips to the Rajaji National Park, the Malsi Deer Park, or the Pindari Glacier, when the season allows.
Kodainkanal, Tamil Nadu
The ideal place for a week-long workation, Kodaikanal presents the quintessential hill station experience, with its rain-washed greenery, misty mountains, wide open meadows and terraced rice fields. The sun shines bright during the day, the weather is mild, and the warm and fresh local cuisine is a weather-appropriate delight. When not working, there is lots to explore: towering granite cliffs, tremendous waterfalls, picturesque lakes, treks to mesmerising viewpoints, and leisurely promenades along the Coaker’s Walk, at Bryant Park, or in the pine forest.
