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.
MAM
Aspire Impact secures Parinama backing, appoints CEO
Valued at Rs 360 million, adds advisor, scales ESG platform globally
MUMBAI: Impact, it seems, is finally getting its own balance sheet. Aspire Impact has secured strategic backing from The Parinama Group, while appointing Saloni Malhotra as chief executive officer of its services arm, Aspire Impact Assurance (AIA). The company has also brought Dr Ram Sharma, Chancellor of UPES, on board as an advisor marking a three-pronged push to scale its ESG and impact measurement ambitions.
Following the investment, Aspire Impact is now valued at INR 360 million, underscoring growing investor interest in the ESG and sustainability ecosystem. Over the past six years, the company has expanded at pace, reporting a 65 per cent CAGR in client growth and 83 per cent CAGR in revenues, with a portfolio of 60 plus clients and more than 150 engagements across ESG, sustainability and impact measurement.
Its client roster includes names such as Ather Energy, Protean eGov, Mahindra Lifespaces, Urban Company, Capgemini, Kotak Bank and ICICI Bank reflecting demand for structured impact assessment across sectors.
The fresh capital will be channelled into scaling its SaaS platform, Ikoo World, and expanding operations both in India and internationally. The broader market itself is on a growth curve, with the global ESG and impact measurement space projected to nearly double from $15 billion in 2025 to $31 billion by 2030.
Malhotra’s appointment signals a sharper operational focus. With over two decades of experience spanning corporate leadership, social impact and media, she will lead Aspire’s Comprehensive Impact Assessments across corporate, BFSI, education and non-profit sectors, with a government-focused edition also in the pipeline.
Meanwhile, Dr Sharma’s addition to the advisory board strengthens the organisation’s academic and governance depth, as it looks to bridge the gap between institutional rigour and corporate accountability.
The broader play is clear: as businesses face increasing pressure to quantify not just profit but purpose, companies like Aspire Impact are positioning themselves as the scorekeepers of a new metric where impact is measured with the same seriousness as revenue.
