Many couples choose to go on a Babymoon in an attempt to spend some quality time together before the stress of parenthood actually begins. M&B takes you on a journey and tells you everything you need to know about travelling  when pregnant

BY SANIA DHIRWANI

Kerala

ABOUT
People associate the term nature with God’s own country. Travellers across the globe come to Kerala to enjoy nature, its calm and serene atmosphere and the backwaters. Not only is it a place widely chosen by honeymooners, it is also gaining popularity as babymoon destination. Surround yourself with nature, sit back and relax with your partner.

WHY?
The climate: Kerala enjoys a tropical climate and the temperatures stay fairly consistent throughout the year. Mumsto- be can have a relaxing getaway in the region known for its beaches and backwater canals. Also, you can spend quality time in the seaside resorts of Kerala—popular tourist attraction— while unwinding with your partner.

Picturesque hill stations: Apart from the backwaters and the beaches, Kerala has some beautiful hill stations with tea and coffee plantations. One of the most popular hill stations is Munnar and Silent Valley. You can visit the dams, and if you’re lucky, you could catch a glimpse of wild elephants of Kerala. The hills in Munnar are not steep and the roads are broader, making it safe to travel.

Stay in houseboats: Not many places in India offer stay at houseboats. Kerala is one of them and you cannot miss out on it. Houseboats of Alleppey and Kumarakom is perfect for babymooning.

HOW TO TRAVEL?
The safest and fastest way to travel to Kerala is by flight from anywhere in India. From Mumbai it takes two hours to reach the destination. During pregnancy, you need to make sure that your travel is not quite hectic and you reach your destination quicky, in case of an emergency. Make sure you consult you doctor before you venture out. Taking a train means at least 22 hours of travel time.

MUST VISI T
Sree Padmanabhaswamy
Temple
Bekal Fort
Silent Valley Nationa Park
Periyar Lake
Tea Gardens in Munnar
Athirapilly waterfalls

Dharamsala

ABOUT
Nature’s gift to mankind comes in the form of the city of Dharamsala. Mountains and greenery surround this city in Himachal. It is one of the major tourist attractions in India. If you want to witness snowfall and travelling to Switzerland is a little too far, then Dharamsala is the place to be.

WHY?
For the food: Most of the restaurants and cafes in Mcleod Ganj have outdoor seating with mesmerizing views of the peaks and the deodars. Apart from the Tibetan cuisine, you can expect to indulge in good Indian and Continental foods to, and a mum-to-be can satisfy all her pregnancy cravings.

For the trek: Do not worry, you do not have to climb mountains with the belly bump. The Bhagsu waterfall trail is a can-do for anyone. You can sit on the rocks over there and dip your feet in the cold water. It is worth the little effort will you take to walk. Alternately, you get a little exercise as well.

The Dalai Lama Temple: It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful temples. It is situated in the main market of Mcleod Ganj. It is the perfect place to meditate and de-stress. The prayer chants will help you relax and will certainly be a soothing sound for your baby too. The temple is clean and colourful and you are surely to get good vibes from the place.

HOW TO TRAVEL?
There is no direct train or flight to Dharamsala. Take a flight to Chandigarh and then book a private car that will take you to Dharamsala. Travelling in your own car will provide you with comfort and you can take a halt whenever you feel uneasy or just want to stretch your legs. Do not travel by bus. Bus journeys are uncomfortable and will make you nauseous.

MUST VISI T
Triund hill
Bhagsu waterfall
Dal lake
Kangra Valley
Naddi view point