The Trip is back with its third package of breathtaking locales, as part of its Honeymoon Special. Here's our pick of two destinations in the misty hills, where you and your partner get to lose yourselves in hours of tranquil romance

There's no better way to experience the beauty of the Himalayas than to pitch your tent, quite literally, in the lap of the nature. Mussoorie and its surroundings offer a great chance to enjoy an eco-friendly, adventurous honeymoon amidst hills, waterfalls, valleys and gorgeous terrain against the backdrop of the lower Himalayas.



Jharipani
Located close to a waterfall named after the area, Jharipani is perched atop a hill and is easily approachable by road. Far from the crowd, it's an eco-friendly resort for nature lovers. It has comfortable waterproof Swiss tents with landscaped gardens and terraces, attached western toilets and sit-outs.

There is no better place to watch Doon Valley during day and the twinkling of lights at night. Previously, during the British Raj, Jharipani served as a guesthouse and was passed onto the family of the Maharaja of Patiala; therefore it is also known as Patiala House.

Jharipani promotes eco-tourism and also has adventure sports like horseback riding and horse safaris, paragliding, rafting and trekking in and around Mussoorie. At night, enjoy your dinner in the cool mountain breeze, as a jungle bonfire sets the mood.

Dhanaulti
Set in the heart of the Himalayas and surrounded by dense pine and rhododendron forests, Dhanaulti (Mussoorie-Chamba Road) would appear as likely inspiration for a poem from John Keats' diary. The snow-capped peaks and the peace of the mountains engulf and overwhelm you, in the same breath. Dedicated to the spirit of adventure, it is a great combination of soul-soothing peace and high-adrenaline adventure.

Several travel operators and eco-friendly travel groups organise camps at Dhanaulti that will take you away from the typical crowded hill station experience. Here, you can opt from a host of activities including night hiking, rappelling, trekking, rock climbing, mountain biking, golf on mini putting greens, croquet, self barbeque, archery, dunking, star gazing, live folk performances, yoga sessions, sheesha lounging, jeep safaris, snow camping, snow trekking and sledging (in winters). If all this is too much action for the two of you, snuggle up in your hammock over hot chocolate.

Log on to : www.wanderlustindia.com, www.adventurecampsindia.com for eco-friendly camps

Shaheen Bagh, Doon Valley
A seven-acre estate has exotic accommodation -- from lower cottage room, to poolside room and master suite. Private gardens with rare plants and flowers, the verandah and private seating room add to your experience. The view of the valley, lily pools and water bodies, fruit orchards and old-world charm lend itself to a page straight out of the colonial era.

It's a great place for birdwatching, being home to 370 species. Walks around the estate, by the Tons River and the huge grounds nearby make you soak in the beauty of hills of Mussoorie. You could also explore a few beautiful spots including Landour, Cloud's End and Dhanaulti from here.
Log on to: shaheenbagh.com

Camp spring side
On the outskirts of Mussoorie, near the Bhatta Falls is Camp Spring Side. If you want to get adventurous, you get to choose from a host of sporting activities including river crossing, rappelling, monkey swinging and jumering. The icing on the cake is the river rafting session on the Ganges River with Grade 3 and Grade 4 rapids to negotiate. The thrills promise to take your breath away.
Log on to :u00a0www.campspringside.com

How to reach
>> Board a flight to Delhi and proceed to Dehradun (242km, approximately five-hour drive) from where it's another hour-long drive (38km). Or else you can drive down to Mussoorie from Delhi (281km). A direct train from Mumbai to Dehradun (Dehradun Express) also works, if you aren't strapped for time.

What to see
>> Kempty Falls
>> Cloud End
>> Childer's Lodge
>> Bhatta and Jharipani Falls
>> Camel's Back Road

Where to shop
>> Wooden artefacts and curios, locally made shawls, ceramic ware and brass takeaways can be bought from Gandhi Chowk, the Mall, Kulri Bazaar and Landour Bazaar

Where to eat
>> Rice bowl, amitash Restaurant: Tibetan and Thai
>> Tavern: Roast Lamb, Goan Fish Curry and live music
>> Casa Mia Bakery: Warm Croissants and Muffins