15 lengthy weekends in 2024: Bookmark these 15 locations to go to in India

Whereas lengthy journeys spanning days at a time are at all times thrilling, they aren’t cost-effective or sensible. Squeezing in a weekend journey generally is a fantastic approach to reset and rejuvenate. These locations don’t want a airplane ticket, however only a few hours drive out of your metropolis. So seize a suitcase, sunnies and let’s go:

Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Mandu, Madhya Pradesh. (Picture through Unsplash)

Should you’re on the lookout for a vacation spot that can take you out of your consolation zone and into the center of nature and historical past then contemplate Mandu in Madhya Pradesh. The imposing Jahaz Mahal a harem constructed by Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji for his 15000 maidens, Roopmati Pavilion, Hindola Mahal angled at 77 levels and Hoshang Shah’s Tomb are a number of the noteworthy monuments to go to. You may go fishing within the Malipura lake and convey the recent catch to the villagers for a meal or go horse driving. However one of the simplest ways to really relish Mandu is to sit down on the riverbanks watch the world go by.
Keep: Malwa Retreat Mandu run by Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Division Company (MPSTDC)
Finest Time to Go to: October to March

Kochi, Kerala 

Kochi, Kerala. (Picture through Unsplash)

Are you a patron of the humanities then this enchanting place is bound to get your artistic juices flowing. Although artwork and historic websites are the largest attracts for many guests, this port metropolis has sufficient magic for everybody. Take a leisurely stroll alongside Fort Kochi and drop by on the Saint Francis Church the burial web site of explorer Vasco de Gama. Don’t miss the attractive Athirapilly waterfalls that has guest-starred in quite a few Bollywood motion pictures. Within the night witness the Chinese language fishing nets silhouetted in opposition to the setting solar. Cut price for the catch of the day, recent from the boat and have it fried to perfection at one of many close by stalls.
Keep: C G H Wayanad Wild.

Finest time to go to: October to February

Sindhudurg, Maharashtra 

Sindhudurg Fort, Maharashtra. (Picture through Wikimedia Commons)

This seaside city has some fabulous sea forts, a thriving water sports activities scene and nice seafood. The key attraction right here is the imposing Sindhudurg fort flanked by the Western Ghats on one facet and the Arabian Sea on the opposite. On a transparent day, one can see the sea-bed as much as a depth of just about 20 toes. Scuba diving and snorkeling in these waters is a deal with. Curl up with a e book on the pristine seashores that line up on the Konkan shoreline – Tarkarli, Shiroda, Bhogwe, Kunkeshwar, Mochemad, Achra, Vayangani and Redi. When starvation strikes stroll throughout to Atithi Bamboo for a scrumptious seafood meal. Spend the night amidst the outdated fort ruins of Niviti overlooking the Arabian Sea and wander down the coast.
Keep: Coco Shambala.
Finest time to go to: October to March

Rann Utsav,  Kutch, Gujarat

Efficiency at Rann Utsav, Kutch.

From witnessing gorgeous sundown on a hypnotic salt desert, to watching pink flamingos frolic in blue waters, camel rides, procuring and mouth-watering  delicacies, Rann Utsav in Kutch is solely an unforgettable getaway. Make the Tent Metropolis your base and take a day journey to the Harappan web site of  Dholavira. Kalo Dungar (black hill in Gujarati) perched on the fringe of Kutch comes with jaw dropping views of the Rann and the Indo-Pak border. Seaside lovers may make a visit to Mandvi to benefit from the serene shoreline and go to the luxurious Jay Vilas Palace the place Bollywood blockbuster Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was shot.

Keep: Tent Metropolis, Kutch

Professional Tip: The Rann seems to be finest on a full moon night time. Time your go to for 23-24-25 February 2024.

Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

Sixteenth-18th century Bundela Chhatris, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh. (Picture: Wikimedia Commons)

Only a 4 hours practice journey from Delhi will land you in Orchha a Sixteenth century city resting royally on the banks of river Betwa in Madhya Pradesh. Get up early and go rafting on the Betwa river adopted by a go to to Laxmi Narayan Temple, Orchha fort advanced, Jahangir Mahal and Phool Bagh. Finish the day with a stunning mild and sound present detailing the magnificent historical past of Orchha at Orchha Fort.
Keep: Amar Mahal.
Finest time to go to: September to March

Pondicherry 

Erstwhile French colonies in Pondicherry. (Picture through Unsplash)

Should you like to laze round and calm down on the seaside, Pondicherry is an ideal weekend escape. This tiny coastal metropolis boasts some stunning and untouched seashores and promenades. One of the simplest ways to discover Pondy is thru a guided tour on a bicycle. Head to Paradise seaside for some spectacular boating and gorgeous sunsets. Nature lovers and birdwatchers might need to try Ousteri Lake for the various migratory and residential birds right here. Keep: Maison Perumal.
Finest time to go to: October to March

Mussorie, Uttarakhand

Mussourie is the place to be within the blazing summer time.

This Queen of hills is the place to be within the blazing summer time. The mesmerizing Kempty falls is among the principal points of interest right here and makes an exquisite picnic spot. Thrill seekers can journey the well-known cable automotive from Jhulaghat to Gun Hill, one of many highest mountain peaks. The brightly lit Mall highway is the right to tuck into an area meal. These trying to bask in some retail remedy can head to Landour Bazar. The markets right here inventory every part from clothes, artifacts to native spices. Trails like Naag Tibba and Har ki Dun is a favorite with trekkers.

Keep: JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa.
Finest time to go to: April to June

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

The gorgeous Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu. (Picture through Unsplash)

From nature lovers to journey seekers, this hill station within the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu has one thing for everybody. The Kodaikanal Lake with its enchanting boat rides is probably the most visited spot adopted by the meticulously landscaped Bryant Park. The views from Inexperienced Valley View Level are gorgeous. Searching for a difficult but rewarding trek? Perumal Malai which winds by dense forests, steep trails and breath taking meadows is ideal. No matter you do don’t miss the eerie but fascinating Guna Caves.
Keep: The Tamara Kodai.

Finest time to go to: November to February

Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Chikmagalur with its lofty mountains, verdant woods and serene environment is a well-liked getaway for Karnataka residents. (Picture through Unsplash)

Chikmagalur with its lofty mountains, verdant woods and serene environment is a well-liked alternative as a brief getaway for Karnataka residents. A stroll round one (or extra) of the various espresso estates within the hill station is a must-do expertise if you happen to benefit from the outdoor and low. Many of those estates present charming stays along with guided excursions of the farms. There are some many unbelievable trekking trails – Mullayangiri trek, Kemmanagundi trek, and the Baba Budangiri trek. Mullayangiri additionally has a number of the most awe-inspiring sunrises. Don’t miss the Ayyanakere and Hirekolale Lake and the Kalhatti falls.

Keep: Halli Berri a homestay
Finest time to go to: September by February

Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh

Bir is the paragliding capital of India. (Picture through Unsplash)

A typical mountain city Bir can be the paragliding capital of India which attracts adventure-enthusiasts from everywhere in the world. However there’s a lot extra to this tiny hamlet. One can discover Tibetan monasteries, embark on mountaineering trails that result in secret waterfalls, or just benefit from the inexperienced landscapes and the serenity of the place. The sunsets at Bir are exceptionally stunning. This place can be recognized for its quaint cafes that encourage you to linger and benefit from the surroundings.

Keep: Sukoon Baag
Finest time to go to: Between March and June

Diu

The waterfront at Diu. (Picture through Unsplash)

This erstwhile Portuguese colony is the right mix of Goa and Pondicherry. There’s quite a bit to discover together with picturesque seashores and historic monuments. The Diu fort in-built 1535 is probably the most visited landmark adopted by the mysterious Naida caves and the UNESCO heritage web site of St Paul’s Church. If you’re on the lookout for a swim the Nagao Seaside is ideal. Reserve time for a stroll in Vanakbara a captivating little fishing village full of vibrant fishing boats and bustling exercise.
Keep: Radhika Seaside Resort.

Finest time to go to: October to February

Sariska, Rajasthan

Sariska Nationwide Park, Sariska, Alwar. (Picture through Unsplash)

A well known tiger reserve in Rajasthan’s Alwar district, Sariska is among the hottest weekend escapes from Delhi. Take a jeep safari by the enchanting forest earlier than heading to see the magnificent Sariska Palace, which was once the royal residence of Alwar. A go to to Pandupol Temple is at all times worthwhile. Different well-known sights on this space are Siliserh Lake (holds one of many largest populations of crocodiles) Kalighati, and the Kankwadi Fort.
Keep: Utsav Camp Sariska
Finest time to go to: October to March, April to June.

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Krishna’s Butter Ball, Mahabalipuram. (Picture: Sandip Dey through Wikimedia Commons)

Mahabalipuram will go away you awe struck with its historic temples, UNESCO World Heritage Websites and beautiful seashores. Begin with a dawn at Mahabalipuram seaside after which head to the Shore Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. One of the crucial standard vacationer points of interest of Mahabalipuram is the Krishna’s Butter Ball a precariously balanced boulder stated to be a hunk of stolen butter dropped by the gods. Different standard points of interest embody the Crocodile Farm, Cave temples and the Indian Seashell Museum. For adrenalin seekers there are numerous surf spots within the metropolis that cater to each novices and consultants.

Keep: Bodhiwoods Resort
Finest time to go to: October to March

Igatpuri, Nashik, Maharashtra

Igatpuri is house to Kalsubai the very best peak in Maharashtra. (Picture through Unsplash)

This stunning hamlet is house to Kalsubai the very best peak in Maharashtra. The hill presents breath taking views and an thrilling trek. The opposite points of interest embody the Tringalwadi Fort which acted as a watchtower for the Maratha forces throughout battles with the British, Trimbakeshwar Temple one of many nation’s twelve Jyotirlingas and the mesmerising Vihigaon Waterfalls. Igatpuri is house to the world’s largest meditation middle – Vipassana Institute, which makes it a should in your checklist of locations to go to in Igatpuri. When night time falls you possibly can pitch a tent by Talegaon lake beneath a star sprangled sky.

Keep: Jayshin Lake Vaitarna Resort

Finest time to go to: December to February.

Lepchajagat, West Bengal

Lepchajagat close to Darjeeling is studded with thick oak, firs and rhododendron bushes. (Picture through Unsplash)

This quaint hamlet close to Darjeeling is studded with thick oak, firs and rhododendron bushes. Mix that with magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga, fantastic birdlife, tranquil settings and you’ve got the right weekend getaway from Kolkata. With no native markets to discover or standard eating places to go to, Lepchajagat is the place you’ll be able to roam the forest, disappear in to the mist and hearken to the birdsong. Hawa Ghar and Gum Rock are improbable spot to observe Kanchenjunga in all its glory. Evenings are finest spent beside a fire sipping a cup of heat Darjeeling tea.
Keep: The WBFDC Forest Lodge

Finest time to go to: March to Might (summer time) and June to September (monsoon).