Long Weekends in India 2025

Plan your 2025 getaways: A month-by-month guide to long weekends in India

• North India: Plan a trip to either Manali, Auli, or Gulmarg to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cozy snow lodges.
• South India: It’s one of the best times to visit Kerala, and check out its serene backwaters and houseboat stays, while Goa’s beaches provide a mix of relaxation and vibrant nightlife.
• Special event: You can also opt to head to Ahmedabad for the International Kite Festival, where the skies come alive with colorful kites.

• Ujjain: The Mahakaleshwar Temple hosts a magnificent Maha Shivaratri celebration, which you can schedule to attend.
• Andaman Islands: A visit to the Andamans is also a smart option to consider during this time, which is also the ideal time for snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters.
• Rajasthan: Else, plan a trip to Rajasthan to explore Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, where royal palaces and forts provide a rich cultural experience.

• Mathura and Vrindavan: Experience the most vibrant Holi celebrations in Lord Krishna’s birthplace.
• Hampi: Witness Ugadi festivities amid the ancient ruins in Karnataka.
• Rishikesh: Ideal for adventure enthusiasts, offering river rafting and serene yoga retreats.

• Darjeeling: Famed for its stunning landscapes, pleasant weather, and rich cultural heritage, this destination is all about nature, adventure, and history. Exploring the lush tea gardens should be in your itinerary.
• Shimla and Manali: Perfect for families and couples seeking scenic mountain getaways.
• Char Dham Yatra: Since Char Dhams start opening around this time, all those planning to visit these sites can gear up.

• Ladakh: Explore high-altitude deserts, monasteries, and serene lakes like Pangong Tso.
• Munnar and Coorg: Experience lush greenery, tea plantations, and refreshing weather.
• Sikkim: Enjoy blooming rhododendrons and serene monasteries in Gangtok and Pelling.

• Ooty: The best time to visit this place is during monsoon, when the Nilgiri Hills offer misty landscapes and cozy weather.
• Lonavala and Khandala: Perfect for rain-soaked treks and cascading waterfalls.
• Darjeeling: The monsoon adds a mystical charm to its tea plantations and toy train rides. A week-long trip to this place won't be a bad decision for sure.

• Kolkata: A trip to Kolkata during this time will make you feel the true spirit of Durga Puja. Additionally, you can check out Digha and other places as well.
• Gujarat: Gujarat is another option, if not Kolkata, for experiencing the fervour of Navratri through traditional garba and dandiya nights.
• Varanasi: Be a part of Dev Deepawali, where thousands of lamps light up the Ganges, a sight to behold for sure.

• Manali and Shimla: Enjoy a trip to both these places to make the most of your Himachal vacation, where you can indulge in skiing, snowman-building, and hot chocolate by the fire.
• Kashmir: This place needs no introduction. Pick any season for a vacation, you will not be disappointed. But if you visit Kashmir in winters, you get to witness a winter wonderland with pristine snow and breathtaking landscapes.
• Goa: It's always the safe choice to celebrate occasions like Christmas and New Year with lively parties and serene sunsets.

• Make a plan: This will help you to save some money. Book flights, trains, and accommodations in advance, or just when you get to secure the best deals.
• Combine leaves: Strategically combine weekends and public holidays to maximise your time off.
• Explore offbeat locations: Avoid tourist crowds by choosing lesser-known destinations.
• Stay flexible: keep a check on weather forecasts, especially during the monsoon season.
• Balance relaxation and exploration: Include both laid-back and adventurous activities in your itinerary to get the best of both the worlds.