MAM
Five staycation spots to experience beyond the tourist trail
Mumbai: As summer kicks in, it’s time to grab your bags and escape the loo. Whether you’re sweltering in dry heat or drowning in humidity, the hills are calling to cool you down. Escape this summer heat and embark on a journey to these destinations nestled amidst the Northern hills beyond the traditional tourist places. Discover these hidden gems often overlooked! Picture-perfect landscapes await, promising a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s time to unveil the charm of five hidden gems that promise not just a getaway, but a rejuvenating “sleepcation” needed.
Prepare to unwind, recharge, and immerse yourself in the blissful aura of these havens.
1. Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled amidst the serene hills of Shimla lies Mashobra. Dubbed as ‘Quiet Shimla’, this underrated paradise offers a calm place from the chaos of urban life, with its pristine landscapes and minimal tourist footfall. Enjoy your rejuvenating getaway at properties located like Udman Grand Mashobra by Ferns N Petals, Mashobra Greens, Koti Resorts in proximity with attractions like the Naldehra Golf Course and Carignano Nature Park. This destination is perfect for family travelers or an ideal retreat for friends looking for a staycation.
2. Mana, Uttarakhand
Perched at the edge of the Indian border with Tibet/China in the majestic Himalayas lies Mana, the last Indian village. In the district of Chamoli, this quaint village has earned the title of a “Tourism Village” bestowed by the Uttarakhand government. With its surreal charm and proximity to Badrinath, Mana stands as one of the top tourist attractions in the region yet unrecognized. Properties like Sarovar Portico Badrinath provide the perfect blend of luxury and serenity for stays. This town invites adventurers and explorers to uncover its timeless beauty and cultural richness.
3. Tosh, Himachal Pradesh
Set amidst Parvati Valley, this place is a true masterpiece of nature’s beauty. Whether you fancy a peaceful walk by the Parvati River or crave delicious treats at cozy cafes, you’ll find everything you need here. Known for its lively hippie vibes, Tosh is an ideal spot for both solo adventurers and group outings, promising an unforgettable journey of culture and spirituality. The village boasts numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage across the globe. When it comes to accommodation, options like Hello Tosh and The Villster Resort offer the perfect blend of comfort and seamless services, ensuring a memorable stay amidst the serene surroundings.
4. Landour, Mussoorie
Just a short journey from “Queen Of Hills”,Mussoorie lies the cantonment town of Landour in Uttarakhand, India. Nestled at an altitude of 7500 feet, it perches gracefully akin to a jewel adorning the crown of the Queen of Hills, near the majestic peaks of the Himalayas. Despite its close proximity to the bustling Mussoorie, Landour remains a hidden sanctuary, undisturbed and serene. From the luxury charm of Hotel Oakland Landour to the allure of Rokeby Manor, accommodation options offer a delightful escape amidst these mountains.
5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Tucked within the Himalayas’ grandeur, Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh beckons those seeking solace amidst nature’s embrace. Its unspoiled beauty, bordered by Ladakh, Tibet, Kinnaur, and Kullu Valley, calls out to adventurers escaping urban chaos. At an altitude of 12,500 feet, Spiti’s rugged mountains, lush pine forests, and quaint villages enchant with their serene landscapes. With ancient monasteries and cozy accommodations like Green Tara Mud House and Echor Mud Huts Tabo, Spiti offers a tranquil retreat. Explore Buddhist heritage, uncover hidden lakes like Dhadkan, and partake in thrilling adventures such as hiking and camping. Despite its year-round chilly temperatures, Spiti’s summer months offer a milder climate, perfect for immersing oneself in its captivating allure.
Brands
Magellanic Cloud names Syed Ameeruddin CEO of e-surveillance arm
Keeping a sharper eye on the future, Magellanic Cloud is putting a seasoned watcher in charge.
MUMBAI – Magellanic Cloud Ltd. has elevated Syed Ameeruddin as Chief Executive Officer of its e-surveillance business, bringing its iVIS and Provigil operations under a unified leadership to accelerate growth in intelligent monitoring and infrastructure solutions.
Ameeruddin, a nearly two-decade veteran of the company, steps into the role after leading the e-surveillance vertical. His career trajectory—from Business Development Manager to the top of the vertical—reflects a steady climb built on operational depth, client engagement, and strategic execution across multiple subsidiaries.
Over the years, he has played a central role in expanding the company’s footprint, strengthening client relationships, and streamlining operations. He has also been instrumental in integrating acquisitions, helping align new businesses with Magellanic Cloud’s long-term strategy while stabilising performance across diverse domains.
More recently, Ameeruddin has contributed to securing key mandates spanning railways, the National Highways Authority of India, and the BFSI sector—wins that have bolstered the company’s order book and deepened its presence in critical infrastructure.
Commenting on the move, Joseph Sudheer Thumma said Ameeruddin’s leadership has been “pivotal in shaping the e-surveillance business,” citing his ability to drive growth, build teams, and deliver strategic wins as key to the company’s journey. His elevation, Thumma added, is expected to further accelerate expansion in AI-driven surveillance and infrastructure solutions.
The transition comes as demand surges for AI-enabled monitoring, centralised command systems, and large-scale deployments across mission-critical environments. Magellanic Cloud’s e-surveillance segment—anchored by iVIS and Provigil—has emerged as a significant growth engine, delivering projects across banking, transport, highways, and public infrastructure.
In his new role, Ameeruddin will focus on scaling platform capabilities, expanding deployments in complex environments, and developing integrated solutions that enhance real-time intelligence and operational resilience. He will continue to serve as Chief Operating Officer of the company alongside his new responsibilities.
With this leadership shift, Magellanic Cloud is doubling down on its ambition to stay ahead in India’s rapidly evolving surveillance ecosystem—where seeing, increasingly, is not just believing, but predicting.
