The hot cuppa of that humble 'chai' or a plate of the staple 'misal' is turning out to be the coolest topping on the nature's treats for weekenders this winter As the mercury continues to swing between the bone-chilling lows and cool 10-degree range, tourists are busy hitting the road and trekkers packing their backpacks. And the hottest points for them to take a short break on way to their destinations are turning out to be the hottest tea stalls or the favourite 'misal' corners.Nashikities take pride to flaunt their passion for 'misal' as many would not mind even travelling 30-40 km to relish their favourite dish. "A long drive during a chilly morning is a refreshing experience itself. And when it ends at a 'misal' point, it becomes fulfilling too," said Vishal Jagtap, a member of a bikers' club in the city.There are many villages near Nashik which serve 'misal' and are quite popular among the gastronomes. Among these villages are Ghoti, Trimbakeshwar, Naitale and Saikheda, which not only attract the foodies but also those consumed by wanderlust.The trekking expedition calendars are also full, even when the mercury remained below the 8-degree mark at a stretch. "The treks to Salher-Mulher fortes, a day's island camping at Bhandardara, riverside camping at Vaitarana dam, lakeside camping at Sandhan Valley and chasing the sun at dawn or during dusk at Kalsubai peak are some of the most preferred options of the adrenaline junkies during weekends. Most of our camping sites are already booked," said Yash Kotwani, one of the trekking expedition organisers in the city.As the Makar Sanskranti led to a long weekend till Sunday, travel agents had some unique offers in store such as flying kites on nearby hills, besides the night camp in tents, biking and camping at Vaitarana and, last but not least, vineyard camping.Nashikites are also playing the good host to guests during the cold season and taking them to Trimbakeshwar, Niphad and villages along the Godavari riverside to enjoy slices of the city's signature winter.For them, the roadside stalls are the most preferred stopovers that hot cuppa of tea and coffee, along with some refreshments. Adding to this list are some innovative tea shops on College Road, Mahatmanagar and Indiranagar which buzz with youngsters all day long — their attractions being some well-thought-out combos of food and beverages and a cozy ambience for a few hours of friendly discussions.And as long as the temperature hovers around the 10-degree mark, the time-and-tested stalls and the new-age cafes will continue to be the most sought-after spots for the weekenders in search of some warmth.

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