The Navratri festivities are going strong, and the Dussehra festival weekend is just around the corner. We can’t wait for a relaxing long weekend getaway after our nightly Navratri celebrations, and we’re sure you do too! It’s October, and we have festivals lined up one after the other right till the end of the year. This time of the year is always very exciting, and a long weekend is just what we need.
4 Festival Weekend Getaways for Dussehra
If you’ve been busy and haven’t got time to plan yet, don’t worry anymore – we’re here to rescue you! These destinations are close to major cities, so you’ll surely find a beautiful place to escape to and enjoy your much awaited long weekend getaway. So let’s plan an impromptu getaway for the Dussehra festival weekend. After all, spontaneous holidays are often the most memorable.
1. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is conveniently close to Mumbai and Pune, and the hill stations will give you a sense of peace coming from the bustle of the city. You can check out the strawberry farms – in fact, this is the perfect season for strawberries, so bring back a bunch and binge on fruit for days! Apart from this, there are beautiful lakes, waterfalls, valleys, and heritage sites as well. There’s something for everyone, and of course, good food too. The temperature is also sure to be more pleasant at a hill station, so you will be able to unwind and relax at ease.
Alternative:
Matheran and Lonavla also fit the bill for a festival weekend getaway in terms of distance. Matheran allows for beautiful jungle walks and adventure activities, while Lonavla has scenic beauty, lakes, and a romantic air. And of course, there’s always Goa. So take your pick based on what you want this weekend to be for!
2. Gokarna
A wonderful destination that everyone must visit at least once in their lifetime. If you have visited Gokarna, you already know that this is a magnificent place with scenic beaches, lazy afternoons, and delicious food at shacks, all existing alongside religious sites and pilgrim destinations. This makes for a nice family trip too, because there’s something for everyone at Gokarna. It has a very relaxing vibe and you will feel rejuvenated by the time you return home after the festival weekend. A few hours drive away from Mangalore, and a little further away from Bangalore, Gokarna makes for a wonderful long weekend getaway.
Image source: Flickr
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If you’re not inclined towards beaches right now, and would prefer a hill station, we suggest Kodaikanal or Coorg. Kodaikanal has breathtaking landscapes and is relatively less crowded than, say, Ooty, so you’ll have more space to yourself. After all, you’re here to relax. Coffee enthusiasts, home made wine lovers should head straight to Coorg!
3. Pondicherry
This is a one of a kind destination, only a couple of hours drive from Chennai. It takes a few hours from Bangalore, too, so this is another option for Bangalore residents as well. Pondicherry was the original French colony of India, and its wide, tree-lined roads and brightly colored buildings add a different aura to the place. You will also see many beautiful examples of iconic French architectural influences, if that is something you enjoy. Apart from that, the beaches are a joy to behold, as well as water based activities for all you adventure lovers out there. In fact, Pondicherry is one of the most popular destinations in India for scuba diving. Plus, if you can squeeze it into your long weekend getaway, try to go to Auroville. It’s a serene, calming place and surely worth a visit and just an hour plus from Pondicherry.
Image source : Wikimedia
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You shouldn’t opt for one! Definitely go to Pondicherry for your festival weekend, you won’t regret it at all.
4. Rishikesh
Don’t worry, Delhi folks, we haven’t forgotten about you! Rishikesh is a much loved destination, and with good reason. Whether you want to just relax, or try out some adventure sports, there’s something for everyone. Originally popular as a pilgrimage site, it is now well known for its plethora of options for the adrenaline junkie in you. Scuba diving, river rafting, rappelling, cliff diving and bungee jumping are just a few of the most well-liked options. If that’s not what you’re planning to do on your festival weekend, just check out the local eateries and cafes and enjoy the scenery, and spend a slow paced couple of days.
Image source : Wikimedia
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If you would like your long weekend getaway to be a bit richer in terms of a cultural aspect, check out Dharamshala. Plus, Rishikesh itself has many cultural and heritage sites too, so you can choose to explore that side as well. Speaking of heritage, another wonderful option is Agra. Just a few hours drive away from Delhi, you can go check out the Taj Mahal, maybe even see it by moonlight! It’s a different experience altogether.
We hope you got some good options for your festival weekend! So which place on this list would you want to check out for this long weekend getaway? If its any other place also, do share them with us in the comments below.
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1 comment
India and Its culture are just awesome. Especially the wintertime. It’s the time when you celebrate Diwali, Dussehra, Christmas, Newyear. I just love this post describing all the beautiful places we should visit during this time. Thanks!!!