Top 8 Weekend Destinations in India 2023
With the onset of the brand New Year 2022, it is already time to check the vacation calendar and start making plans. After all, long weekends are meant to replenish our energy levels, whether it is trekking in India, a desert safari or a beach vacay.
But with so many places in India, where do you start from?
Well, worry not, for here are some of the most lauded destinations that can be truly worth your long weekend getaways.
1. Lonavala – Mahabaleshwar
The hill station of Lonavala which is about 100 km from Mumbai and 60 km from Pune is the perfect place to experience natural serenity with a good amount of excitement thrown in as well.
The attractions include gorgeous waterfalls, theLion Point and the ancient Fortress of Lohagad. Besides the Karla, Bhaja and Bhidsal Caves are ancient and every bit exciting. These caves are dated as early the Buddhist era and are essentially carved out of rocks.
If you are looking for a quick getaway – with a long drive in your itinerary, then Lonavala is a must-visit during the rainy season. And if you can include Mahabaleshwar and Khandala hill station too, it will be a short and rejuvenating getaway for sure.
2. Jaipur-Udaipur-Jaisalmer
No tourist year can ever be complete without a trip to Rajasthan! This Indian state is a global tourist hotspot with its myriad forts, temples and historical sites.
The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur or the “Pink City”, is the epitome of the Rajasthani heritage. The sprawling Rajput era forts and the city palace – there is so much in Jaipur that you can see and do.
Apart from Jaipur, the “City of Lakes” or Udaipur is no less breathtaking! Udaipur City Palace, Lake Pichola, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari Garden with its majestic fountains are definitely worth visiting.
But if you wish to experience the stunning beauty of the Thar Desert, then you must certainly include Jaisalmer in your itinerary. Best known for its sandstone architecture and the Massive Jaisalmer Fort, this is another place in Rajasthan that will wow you with its magnificence.
3. Thekkady – Periyar – Alleppey
From the golden Thar Desert to the green backwaters of Kerala is a full circle change. Also known as God’s own country, the lush greenery of Kerala will be forever in your memories. Kerala is a traveller’s delight with plenty of different flavours blended into it.
You must include a visit to the Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary on the Periyar River for its exciting wildlife rides and scenic river views. The Periyar National Park is spread over a whopping 300 acres and offers many guided camps for tourists to bask in the wilderness.
Next, the backwaters of Alleppey or Alappuzha is perhaps the most significant aspect of Kerala. You can spend a night in a houseboat on the backwaters for a whole new experience of Kerala.
4. Rishikesh
The picturesque town of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is located in the lap of theGarhwal Mountains in the Himalayas. Rishikesh is equally versatile for adventure tours in India and is famous for its spiritual significance.
Known for its iconic bridges, you must visit the 750-feet iron suspension bridge across the Ganges known as Ram Jhula, which is certainly a sight to behold. Then, there is a similar bridge called Laxman Jhula which is also another very famous spot for tourists.
Interestingly, this quaint town of Rishikesh is hugely popular among adventure junkies forriver rafting in India on the Ganges. This rafting area stretches over 16 km has at least 13 rapids in the path that provides the ultimate adrenaline rush!
5. Leh – Ladakh
The mountainous Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir stretching from the Karakoram to the greater Himalayas is actually a feast to the eyes for its scenery! Leh, one of the main towns in Ladakh is a brilliant example of the rugged beauty that lies in a high-desert landscape. Visiting Leh and other places in Ladakh is the latest rage among tourists from India and abroad.
The picturesque Nubra Valley and the Khardung La are among the top draws in this place. Then the Shanti Stupah is excellent for its majestic architecture as well as for providing a panoramic view of the entire Leh town. It is also a very popular tourist point for enjoying the view of the sunrise and the sunset.
6. Shillong
Part of the seven sisters, the north-eastern state of Meghalaya in India offers great joy to explorers with its resplendent natural beauty. Shillong is one of the most beautiful hill stations that can captivate travellers with its many attractions.
The Elephant Falls in Shillong is surprisingly multi-tiered, with scenic surroundings and can be watched from a very near view which is accessible by foot. And Umium Lake is a point for adventure activities like boating, kayaking, scooting.
Another place to visit is the Shillong View Point which is on the top of a mountain and has an observation tower providing an exhilarating bird’s eye view of the entire capital. If you are eager for cycling trips, then plan your tour during the annual cycling tour in Shillong that is held every year.
7. Gokarna
Situated in Karnataka, in the southern part of India, Gokarna has a lot to offer every tourist. Said to be idyllic for young as well as seasoned explorers, Gokarna is a place that is exceedingly versatile in flavor and is gaining tremendous popularity over time.
Here, you can check out Om Beach that is set in the midst of a forest, while another point for camping and fun activities is the Paradise Beach.
8. Goa
And finally, there is no better place for a long weekend than Goa. With its pristine beaches, shacks, old churches, song, dance and wine, there is no dearth of reasons why everybody loves Goa!
Starting from Calangute beach for lazing around or water sports, and the stately Fort Aguada that overlooks the Arabian Sea, to the Basilica of Jesus – Goa is ideally beautiful all throughout the year.
Conclusion
There are umpteen spots to visit in India, whether you have weekend getaways on your mind, mountaineering expeditions tours for some adventure or Goa tour packages for the ultimate relaxation. So plan your holidays in advance, pack your bags and get going!