With quite a few long weekends up ahead, a quick escape from your busy city life is probably exactly what the doctor ordered. It can, however, be quite confusing deciding where to go. Don’t worry, we have got you covered. We have collated a list of destinations that would be perfect for that much needed weekend getaway.
FROM DELHI
Udaipur
Known as the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur has an aura of romance unmatched by very few others. Set on the serene Lake Pichola, surrounded by the rolling Aravalli Range, this city is a wonderful mix of grand palaces, stately Havelis (traditional, vintage homes) and narrow, timeless streets - Udaipur oozes with old world charm.
Distance from Delhi: 663 km
Best time to visit: September to March
Things to do & see: Udaipur City Palace, Lake Pichola, Vintage Car Museum
Rishikesh
Located amidst the pristine Ganga river with a scenic backdrop of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims, alike. The ancient town of Rishikesh is teeming with yoga and meditation centres and is commonly referred to as the ‘yoga capital of the world’. The town is also known for its quaint cafes and has some of the best adventure activities in the country.
Distance from Delhi: 240 km
Best time to visit: February - April; August - October
Things to do & see: River Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Yoga
Shimla
One of the most popular hill stations in the country, Shimla is located at an altitude of 2,276 metres. The picturesque town is surrounded by green hills and the snow-capped Himalayas. Enjoy its colonial architecture, natural beauty and breezy climate - perfect for a relaxed getaway.
Distance from Delhi: 340 km
Best time to visit: October to July
Things to do & see: Mall Road, Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens
FROM MUMBAI
Goa
Tucked away along the western coast of India, the beautiful beach state of Goa is a popular and well-known holiday destination for many. The former Portuguese colony, has colourful architecture, lush green fields, fantastic food, a stellar nightlife as well as a laid back spirit for that relaxing holiday.
Distance from Mumbai: 590 km
Best time to visit: October to February (although Goa sees tourists almost all year long)
Things to do & see: Water Sports, Fort Aguada, Flea Markets, Beaches
Lonavala
Located in the lush Sahyadri range of the Western Ghat, Lonavala is a beloved getaway (especially during the monsoons). This misty hill station boasts of stunning waterfalls, beautiful lakes and many wondrous caves! Don’t forget to pick up some ‘chikki’ while there.
Distance from Mumbai: 83 km
Best time to visit: December to February; June to September (to witness the rains in all its glory)
Things to do & see: Tiger’s Leap, Rajmachi Fort, Karla Caves
FROM BENGALURU
Munnar
This romantic hill station, a popular getaway destination, is adorned with mesmerising waterfalls, a lush blanket of tea plantations and an abundance of natural beauty. Perched at a height of 1,532m, the picturesque town has pleasant weather almost all year round where one can also experience a variety of adventure activities like trekking, camping and paragliding.
Distance from Bengaluru: 476 km
Best time to visit: September to March
Things to do & see: Eravikulam National Park, Top Station (highest point in Munnar), Anamudi Peak (highest peak in Southern India)
Coorg
Known as ‘The Scotland of India’, Coorg (or Madikeri) lures visitors with its fragrant coffee plantations, rolling hills, majestic waterfalls and a plethora of flora and fauna. This scenic town offers something for everyone - trekking, wildlife or just a laid-back holiday - making it an ideal getaway destination.
Distance from Bengaluru: 260 km
Best time to visit: October to June
Things to do & see: Abbey Falls, Nagarahole National Park, trekking, sample some delicious Coorg cuisine
Gokarna
A small temple town in coastal Karnataka, Gokarna is also home to palm-lined beaches and pristine water. It has become a new found hub for travellers seeking a laid-back, peaceful beach holiday. The town attracts beach buffs as well as pilgrims with its many sacred sites.
Distance from Bengaluru: 490 km
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do & see: Om beach, Kudle Beach, surfing in Gokarna, beach yoga, Mahabaleshwara Temple
FROM CHENNAI
Puducherry
This charming former French town in South India is a perfect amalgamation of French and Tamil heritage making it a dreamy getaway and an extraordinary experience. Teeming with pristine beaches, vibrant heritage architecture, authentic French bakeries, cosy cafes and cobble-stoned paths, Puducherry has a lot to offer.
Distance from Chennai: 169 km
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do & see: Paradise Beach, Aurobindo Ashram, cafes in Puducherry
FROM KOLKATA
Darjeeling
Lying amidst acres of tea plantations and at an altitude of 2,042 meters, Darjeeling is a sought-after escape from busy city life. This scenic hill station is known for its quaint houses, stunning colonial architecture and is home to the famous ‘Darjeeling Tea’. The majestic Kanchenjunga stands tall as the perfect backdrop for this beautiful town.
Distance from Kolkata: 640 km
Best time to visit: February - March; September - December
Things to do & see: Japanese Peace Pagoda, ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train, Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway
Sunderbans
Spread across India and Bangladesh, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for having the largest mangrove forest in the world. It is also a Tiger Reserve and a Biosphere reserve with many rare and globally threatened wildlife species living there. A road trip from Kolkata followed by a boat ride will get you to Sundarbans National Park.
Distance from Kolkata: 60 km to 114 km (Drive down till Sonakhali, Godkhali, Namkhana, Canning, Raidighi or Najat and then proceed on motorboats)
Best time to visit: September to March
Things to do & see: Boat Safari, Kanak (to spot Olive Ridley Turtles), Halliday Wildlife Sanctuary (home to the rare barking deer)
FROM KOCHI
Fort Kochi
Known for its rich colonial architecture and history, this charming seaside town has attracted travellers from all across the world. Fort Kochi is a laid-back fishing village with tons to see - the famous Chinese fishing nets, cosy cafes, unique architecture and vibrant culture. A trip to Kerala is not complete without a visit to Fort Kochi.
Distance from Kochi: 6 km
Best time to visit: October - March
Things to do & see: Jewish Synagogue, Vasco da Gama Square, Dutch Palace, unwind at one of the many quaint cafes
Kumarakom
Famous for its backwater tourism, Kumarakom is located in Kottayam on the banks of Lake Vembanad. The picturesque town has a lot to offer its visitors - Lush paddy fields, mouth-watering local cuisine, traditional houseboat rides and gorgeous luxury resorts. This enchanting backwater destination is home to many species of flora and fauna and attracts tourists from all over.
Distance from Kochi: 50 km
Best time to visit: September - March
Things to do & see: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, boat rides along the backwater, Bay Island Driftwood Museum
That rounds up our list of places to head to from some of the major cities in India. So pack up the car and start exploring our gorgeous country (even if it is only for a few days).
Check out our collection of charming resorts at some of these beautiful destinations here
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