7 enchanting destinations under 7 hours from GCC 

They say it’s not the destination but the journey that matters! Agreed. But what if the destination is gorgeous and the journey is short? I say it is a win-win, a fun short journey and fabulous destination is one package is a great idea! 

So, beat your time crunch, and get flying to these amazing destinations with the travel of well under 7 hours! 

 Quick offbeat getaways from GCC 

Kochi, India

Sitting comfortably beside the Arabian sea, this traditional trading port city embraces tourists like they are her own children. From beaches, forts, and palaces to Malls, saree shops, and delicious seafood you will find it all here. Spend your days relaxing in the quaint cafes or take part in the hullabaloo of the marine drive but don’t forget to load up the super crispy banana & tapioca chips as well as aromatic spices as your souvenirs. 

Luxor, Egypt 

While Cairo is often on everyone’s bucket list, Luxor, packed with tons of historic treasure will leave you captivated. The city is dotted with so many temple complexes, tombs, and other attractions that it feels like you are walking into an open-air museum. While you are lost in marvelling at the man-made gorgeousness, don’t miss out on cherishing the natural beauty of the grand Nile. Enjoy shopping for papyri, pharaonic robes, rare perfumes, and Egyptian spices to take back home!

Tbilisi, Georgia

A city that has witnessed the turmoil of changing hands of kings and queens is bound to possess some great stories to tell! Located at the foot of Mtatsminda mountain, Tbilisi is the only land-locked city that has its own “sea & beaches,” courtesy of its lake reservoirs. Narikala fortress, sulfur baths, and Jvari Monastery are a few of its medieval gems. If you love cooking, enroll yourself in a Baking class on Georgian bread and you won’t be disappointed. Check the Dry Bridge Flea Market for some Russian artifacts which will double up as offbeat souvenirs from Georgia.

Explore Tbilisi in just 3 days. 

Amman, Jordan

A blend of history and modernity, Amman, the capital of Jordan is often considered a gateway to the Dead Sea and Petra ruins. But Amman in itself is lined up with attractions like the citadel, Roman Theater, Jordan museum, Rainbow Street, and so on. Also, don’t miss out on seeing the local limestone houses and district which are responsible for Amman’s moniker, “the white city.” Amman is also known for its traditional keffiyehs, chocolates, hand-painted ceramics, and of course its Dead Sea mud. 

Read more about spending your weekend in Amman. 

Baku, Azerbaijan

Located by the banks of the Caspian Sea, this windy city has come a long way from being a walled city during medieval times to modern architecture and the oil boom. The eclectic architecture is sure to catch your eye, be it the carpet museum or the Heydar Aliyev Center, or the Flame Towers. Baku also has scrumptious food like Plov and Dolma that will tease and satiate your taste buds. 

Explore all things that Baku offers. 

Lahore, Pakistan

Lahore is the second-largest city in Pakistan and is popularly known as its cultural capital. It is also one of the wealthiest cities in Pakistan in terms of GDP and priceless monuments. Lahore is the caretaker and witness to the Mughal and Sikh legacy through its Lahore fort, Badshahi Mosques, and Gurudwara. The city also is known for mouth-watering Biryani – a dish that is cherished by millions of people. 

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The capital of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is a sprawling city and the country’s commercial and cultural capital. Indulge in pre-historic fossils, traditional art & craft, and abundant nature sightseeings. While here, don’t miss out on the black gold or popularly known as coffee, because you are in the birthplace of this ubiquitous drink. Apart from the regular attractions, do experience the diverse culture of this city through its dancing, fashion, art, and zeal for every sport. 

Now that you have a list of amazing places that are not too far away, start booking and get packing your bags now!