2017, more than anything else, will be remembered as the year of long weekends. With that in mind, we have gathered some of the most wonderful trip ideas, which will cater to any type of mood, energetic or lazy, self-indulgent or adventurous, there is something for everyone. Although not a bona fide three-day weekend, the Independence Day (15th August, Tuesday) weekend, could easily be turned into one, so plan a 4-day trip of relaxation and self-indulgence.
Here is a list of a few places you could head off to with your family, your friends or your partner –
Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Located at an altitude of 3340 m in the north eastern corner, Lahaul and Spiti are the two picturesque villages in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Dotted with stunning valleys and majestic mountains, Lahaul and Spiti are perfect for adventure seekers as well as nature lovers.
How to Reach: There is no direct flight connectivity to Spiti Valley. The nearest airport is 245 km away in Bhuntar, near Kullu. You can hire a taxi or a local ride to reach your destination.
Places to Visit: Kye Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Dhankar Fort, Pin Valley National Park, Tabo Monastery, Chandratal Lake
Places to Eat: Sachen Kunga Restaurant, Dragon Restaurant, Cafe Kunzum Top, Sol Cafe
Things to Do: Star Gazing in Spiti Valley, River Rafting in Pin and Spiti Rivers, Trek to Dhankar Lake, Shopping at Kaza
Munnar, Kerala
One of the most popular tourist destinations, Munnar is home to scenic hills, exquisite tea and spice plantations and breathtaking backwaters. Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this quaint hill station is picture-perfect for a relaxing weekend trip.
How to Reach: There is no direct connectivity to Munnar. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport (CIAL) which is 125 km away. Pre-paid AC and non-AC cabs can be hired to reach Munnar.
Places to Visit: Attukal Waterfalls, Kannan Devan Tea Museum, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Lakkam Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park
Places to Eat: Rapsy Restaurant, SN Restaurant, Sarath Inn, The Deli, Eastend Munnar Dining
Things to Do: Trek to Echo Point, Rock Climbing at Tea Valley Resort
Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar
A dream destination, Port Blair is an island of blissful beaches, pristine palm trees, and stunning sights. Lounge by the beach, take a long walk, go snorkeling or deep sea diving, indulge in an exotic seafood spread or go trekking, you are never out of options in this tropical paradise.
How to Reach: Port Blair is well-connected by flights and there are regular direct and connecting flights from all major cities of India.
Places to Visit: Ross & Smith Islands, Cellular Jail, Viper Island, Chidiya Tapu Island, Samudrika Marine Museum, Corbyn’s Cove, Japanese Bunkers
Places to Eat: Annapurna Restaurant, New Lighthouse Restaurant, Corbyn’s Delight, Courtyard Restaurant, Waves
Things to Do: Sea Game Fishing and Snorkelling in Havelock, Shopping at Aberdeen Bazaar, Bird Watching in Chidiya Tapu Island, Sea Walking at North Bay Island, Trekking at Wandoor and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Goa, Goa
A coastal haven, Goa welcomes you with surreal sights of the azure blue sea shimmering in the sunlight. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a fun-filled time with friends or looking to spend a few cherished moments with your special someone, Goa is the ideal destination.
How to Reach: The Dabolim Airport is located 29 km away from the state’s capital, Panjim. It is well connected by daily flights from all the metropolitan cities. Pre-paid taxis are easily available from outside the airport.
Places to Visit: Agonda Beach, Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Waterfall, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Candolim Beach, Arambol Beach, Fort Aguada Jail, Cavelossim Beach
Places to Eat: A Reverie, Souza Lobo, La Plage, Thalassa, Baba’s Wood Cafe, Bomra’s
Things to Do: Parasailing at Calangute Beach, Paragliding at Arambol Beach, Scuba Diving at Sail Rock, Water Skiing at Candolim Beach, Shopping at Anjuna Beach Flea Market
Leh, Ladakh
The landscape of Leh-Ladakh is lined with rugged mountains, whitewashed stupas, and mesmerizing monasteries. There are colourful prayer flags fluttering everywhere and the prayer wheels are on a perennial rotation in this spiritual land. Escape from your world of chaos and spend some time in this magical land of transcendence.
How to Reach: Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the main airport, where flights are directly connected from Delhi, Srinagar, and Jammu.
Places to Visit: Leh Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Phyang Monastery, Magnetic Hill, Khardungla Pass, Nubra Valley, Shey Palace, Shanti Stupa, Spituk Monastery
Places to Eat: Tenzin Dickey Tibetan, Open Hand Cafe, Lamayuru Restaurant, Himalaya Cafe, Gesmo
Things to Do: White Water Rafting at Zanskar, Trekking at Markha Valley, Yak Safari in Zansti Main Market, Camping at Pangong Tso Lake, Biking at Khardung La Pass
Darjeeling, West Bengal
A gateway to the Himalayas, Darjeeling is adorned with a canvas of endless greenery and snow-capped peaks. Known as ‘Queen of the Hills’, this town is gifted with a captivating panorama at every step of the way. Be allured by the rolling hills and tea plantations.
How to Reach: The nearest Airport is the Bagdogra Airport, which is 96 km away from Darjeeling. From the air, pre-paid and private cabs are available.
Places to Visit: Tiger Hill, Everest Museum, Bhutia Basti Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Rock Garden, Observatory Hill, Ava Art Gallery, Mirik Lake
Places to Eat: Kunga Restaurant, Keventer’s, Lunar Restaurant, Hasty Tasty, Glenary’s Bakery and Cafe, Frank Rose Cafe Restaurant
Things to Do: Toy Train Ride from Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, Trekking at Chatakpur
Lakshadweep, Lakshwadeep
Lakshadweep is a fairytale land, far far away … or so it seems! With gleaming white sand beaches garlanded with emerald palms, it is the ideal destination for the holiday of your dreams. A quiet sojourn or an adventurous extravaganza, you can have it all here.
How to Reach: Cochin International Airport is the only airport that links Agatti Airport of Lakshadweep with the mainland. Boats are available from Agatti to take you to the Lakshadweep Islands.
Places to Visit: Bangaram Atoll, Minicoy Island, Kavaratti Island Lagoon, Pitti Bird Sanctuary, Kalpeni Island
Places to Eat: Cafe de Saina, Wangs Kitchen, Golden Bakery and Sweets
Things to Do: Scuba Diving in Kalpeni Island, Canoeing in Minicoy Island, Kitesurfing in Kadmat Island, Hermit Crab Watching in Parelli Island, Shopping at Amindivi Island
There is no dearth of beautiful places around us. So, where will you be heading off to on the long weekend?
