
Travel Bites is all about discovering places, trying new things and finding out the stuff most travel guides don't tell you. From hidden spots and weird facts to local food, fun experiences and little travel stories, this series is about making you curious enough to say, “Okay, I want to go there!” Discover places. Find cool things. Make some stories.

Done Nandi Hills, Coorg and the usual weekend spots around Bengaluru? There is still plenty to explore. From quiet forts and forested hills to coffee country, rivers, rainforests and places that feel like an alternative to Ooty or Munnar, these 10 lesser known escapes can be reached by car, bike, bus or train within roughly 7 hours of Bengaluru.

Want to travel solo but your parents immediately start imagining every possible disaster? Here are 12 places around India where your trip can be about more than just sightseeing. From the peaceful mountains of Kedarnath to the beaches of Somnath and the landscapes around Rameshwaram, these Jyotirlinga destinations combine spirituality, nature, food, culture and travel experiences that might just make your parents say, “Okay, you can go.”

Looking for a relaxed beach getaway that still gives you something fun to do? Mulki, near Mangaluru, is a great little escape for surfing, kayaking, coastal food, peaceful beaches and the chance to see bioluminescent water at night. Here's what makes Mulki worth the trip, what to do, when to go and how to make the most of it without spending a fortune.

Thinking about a trip to Lakshadweep? Before you book your tickets, here's what you should know about permits, islands, transport, weather, water activities, food, cash, packing and a few surprisingly cool things you probably won't find in the usual travel reels.