Travel Attractions – Long weekend destination
This 15th of August, India will celebrate its 76th Independence Day. This significant national holiday is being celebrated across the nation. The country is decorated in bright, festive colors as Indian Independence Day approaches. There are many events happening in the country, including festivals and surfing competitions as well as yoga retreats and rainy trekking.
As we say goodbye to July rains, the season of celebrations has already begun. August is full of celebrations this year and there’s a long weekend right around the corner.
Are you wondering where to go on the Independence Day weekend? Although August is likely to bring heavy rains across the country, there are some areas that are immune from the downpours. However, there are also some places that you might be able to avoid the rain showers.
Now is the best time to check off these top tourist destinations. This list includes some amazing destinations that you can visit right now to add to your bucket list.
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1. Kerala
Kerala is located in the southern tip of India and has unique geographic features that make it one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations. The National Geographic Traveller named Kerala ‘God’s Own Country, and it was one of the 50 destinations that you should visit in your lifetime. It is also one of the 13 paradises around the globe.
This land is known for its equable climate, beautiful beaches, peaceful stretches of backwaters and lush hill stations, as well as exotic wildlife. The best thing about Kerala is the fact that you can drive to most destinations within a two-to four hour radius.
There are many cultural treasures to be discovered, including ancient art forms, vibrant festivals, and exotic cuisine. Kerala has gained a reputation for being a worthwhile destination thanks to Ayurveda and Panchakarma, an ancient Indian system in medicine. Kerala is also known for its excellent wellness destinations.
Apart from the renowned ayurvedic spots here, the natural bounty of Kerala is known for its serene and tranquil surroundings.
The mild climate throughout the year and many festivals and events ensure that Kerala never sees the end of season. Check these few places while in Kerala.
a) Idukki
Idukki, a beautiful retreat, is a great place to relax and unwind. Idukki, a stone-age civilization, is surrounded by lush green tapestries, waterfalls, and exotic vegetation. There are also a lot of historical ruins that you can explore.
Few sights are as captivating as the synchronized rowing of Kerala’s competing kayakers. This year’s Malabar River Festival will be held at Thusharagiri, Kozhikode, from 12-14 Aug. Just in time for the long weekend. Visitors are welcome to join the kayakers in their competitions on the waters of Iruvazhinjipuzha or Chalipuzha. The phenomenon can give you adrenaline rushes and possibly pain in your arms.
You can enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets at Hill View Park, Thommankuthu Falls; Meesapulimama (second highest mountain in South India), for trekking; Vala waterfalls, etc. are also great tourist attractions.
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy Periyar National Park and Anamudi Shola National Park, Eravikulum National Park and other parks. Here, you can spot endangered species of fauna, flora, and even some rare ones.
b) Munnar
Munnar, South India’s famed hill station, is a beautiful place where you can explore, enjoy, and visit natural beauty. Munnar lies at the confluence three mountain streams, Muthirapuzha and Nallathanni. The word “Munnar” means three rivers in Malayalam.
The hill station is located at 1600m above the sea level and was the summer resort for the British Government during colonial times. The Munnar town still bears the marks of colonial times in the form English country cottages. Munnar offers a great holiday experience with its virgin forests, rolling hills and scenic valleys.
There are also many streams, waterfalls that can be quite large, lush tea plantations, winding walkways, and huge splashy waterfalls. Munnar is also famous for Neelakurinji. This rare plant only flowers once every twelve years. Munnar’s ‘kurinji’ season is a spectacular time when the Neelakurinji blue blooms are visible in the hills and valleys.
2. Meghalaya
Cherrapunjee
It is thrilling to take a road trip through Meghalaya. The journey is thrilling, whether you’re riding a bike or driving. There are many routes to explore the state. The one that leads from the capital Shillong to Cherrapunjee (Cherrapunji), or Sohra as it is known, stands out because of the breathtaking views and magnificent waterfalls along the way.
Cherrapunji is the place to awaken your adventurer side. There are many activities that will give you adrenaline rush, including boating and ziplining as well as wildlife rides and river canyoning. Tourist attractions include Nohkalikai Falls and Thang Kharang Park. Mawsmai Cave, Khasi Monoliths, and Mawsmai Cave are also popular.
Cherrapunji, located in Meghalaya will show you the beauty of root-bridges. Locals have taught rubber tree roots to grow in a certain way, allowing them to build bridges.
3. Ladakh
Ladakh, an unmatched Beauty and Unlimited Adventure at the Land of High Passes. Ladakh is a popular destination for tourists and mountaineers alike because of its scenic beauty, rugged terrain, majestic mountains, and the challenge of getting it done. Its natural beauty and rustic charm have been preserved despite the absence of modernity.
Ladakh’s beautiful landscape is constantly changing. It is amazing to see mountains, snow, deserts, and lakes all within a very short distance of each other.
Surrounded by high barren mountains and the highest motorable passes such as Khardung La (5359m), Marsimik La (55582m), Chang La (5360m), and alpine lakes such as Pangong Tso (4335m) and Tso Moriri (4522m), adventurers love Ladakh because of the many adrenaline-rushing activities available.
Take a safari to Hemis National Park, Ladakh. Wildlife lovers who are looking for the rare snow leopard should head to Hemis National Park. It is home to one of the largest concentrations of snow leopards anywhere in protected areas in the world. The cat is not likely to be easily spotted, but don’t let that fool you.
The park is situated on the outskirts Leh, close to Hemis Monastery. Since the area doesn’t receive a lot rainfall, you can enjoy a walk through the trails and spot great Tibetan sheep, blue sheep and Ladakhi Urals.
4. Goa
It is a great general-purpose tourist destination that can accommodate any season, any mood and any type of group. A quick visit to Goa on the Independence Day weekend is recommended.
You can explore Goa beyond its beaches during monsoon season. Chorla Ghats or the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary are good places to see woodland bioluminescence. This is a phenomenon in which Mycena mushrooms grow on tree bark and turn a bright neon green.
The Goa Tourism Development Corporation, GCTD (GTDC), is now offering monsoon trekking trips every week to tourists so they can explore new areas of the state. There are many activities in Goa, including trekking and beaches. This allows tourists to see a different side of the state.
You can immerse yourself in nature and Goa during the monsoon. Trek to Hivrem Falls. You can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool, bike through Divar Island, or, if you are feeling more physically challenged, kayak up the Chapora River.
Renting a two-wheeler is a great way to explore Goa’s lanes. It’s much more fun!
5. Rajasthan
a) Udaipur
It is a great place to visit when the mercury rises in summers. Every corner of this state is filled with heritage and culture. Jaipur may be mainstream, but it is always worth the effort. Udaipur and Jaisalmer, however are well worth your time.
The city of lakes is home to stunning landscapes and palaces that display Rajasthani grandeur. The Manaspura Karni Mata ropeway will give you a bird’s eye view of the city.
b) Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is one of the few Indian cities that doesn’t get torrential rain in August. For a weekend getaway, head to this city that is all about heritage and history.
You can’t miss the Jaisalmer Fort, an architectural wonder you must see. There are many thrilling options available in the Thar desert sand dunes, including parasailing and quad biking. This will also add excitement to the rich royal history of the various palaces. One-of-a-kind experiences include night camping in the desert and camel safari.
c) Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a great place to see palatial luxury, and learn about history. It is a great place to visit in August when temperatures barely reach 34 degrees.
Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace are just a few of the many attractions you can visit. You can also visit Rao Jodha Desert Park, shop handicrafts and taste the rich Rajasthani cuisine.
6. Karnataka
a) Gokarna
Gokarna, a small town located on the coast of Karwar in Karnataka is known as “The Little Town”. Although it is most well-known for its beaches and temples, the breathtaking landscapes will transport you to a peaceful state. This place is a peaceful haven and should be on your bucket list for the Independence Day long weekend.
Gokarna is a more relaxed version of Goa that offers the same beauty and charm but with fewer crowds.
One can also engage in beach walking, beach hopping, and hiking in the Yana forests while there. The Mirjan Fort and Mahabaleshwar Temple are two of the most popular places to visit. Gokarna’s beaches are the best spot to catch a sunset.
Things to do: Beside beach trekking, hiking through the Yana woods, or visit to the famous temples, you can engage in some watersport activities – surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing.
b) Coorg
Coorg is known as the “Scotland of India”. This hill station on Karnataka’s green hills is known for its coffee plantations and spices. Tourists love this place for its greenery and peaceful environment.
The hill station is a great place to escape the city. You can go river rafting and trekking as well as bird-watching. You can even play with elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camps. You can visit the Pushpagiri Wildlife sanctuary, Mallalli Falls and Abbey Falls.
7. Tamil Nadu
a) Chettinad
Although most people think of Chettinad as a place to eat, there is much more to this region in South India. The Chettinad Heritage and Cultural Festival will give you a glimpse into the region’s culture, architecture, and cuisine. It takes place between 12 and 15 August. Leela Samson, a Bharatanatyam musician, will host the festival in traditional Chettiar homes.
You can expect temple tours, dance performances, and informative talks about the jewellery and textiles from Chettinad. The Bangala, the first heritage hotel in the area, offers cooking classes taught by well-known chefs.
b) Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal, located in Tamil Nadu, at approximately 7000 feet above the sea level, is a stunning hill station that boasts serene lakes, densely-forested valleys, and gushing waterfalls. Because of the abundance of rainfall in August, the weather is pleasant.
Known as the princess of hills, Kodaikanal is one of the most sought-after hill destinations in South India. Although it is not as popular as places like Munnar (also known as the Kashmir of Kerala) and Ooty (also known as Ooty the Queen of Hills), its beauty and charm make Kodaikanal a favourite of tourists.
Things to do: Enjoy refreshing boat rides and exploring caves. Periyakulam trekking or dolphin nose are great places to start your trek. For breathtaking views, visit Pillar Rocks viewpoint or Green valley viewpoint. This place is also famous for its homemade chocolates. Don’t miss the delicious sugar delights!
Here you can enjoy a variety of activities, such as boating, hiking and cycling, or even going on night safaris. Berijam Lake and Mannavanur Lake are some of the tourist spots you can find at this green destination.
FAQs about long weekend trips
How To Plan A Trip In 5 Simple Steps
1. Pick your destination.
2. Determine the length of your trip.
3. Bookings for flights, trains, and buses, as well as accommodation.
4. Plan your day and determine the course of action.
5. Make sure to pack carefully and make any necessary adjustments.