Urban lifestyle is always busy and running after the targets and tasks to be completed. If you wanna take a break from all this mess, you just need a perfectly planned weekend. Because we have the weekends to exhaust our stress from day-to-day hectic lifestyles.
So what’s late? Let’s plan some of the best weekend trips to explore in India from all corners. Here you can catch the best weekend gateways of India for short trips with your family or friends.
Weekend Getaways in the Northern Region:
1. Jaipur:
The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a rich heritage and monumental-centred tourist attraction. Many historic constructions and monuments built in the era of Rajputs stand as iconic attractions to witness today. To explore the heritage side of North India, Jaipur is the right choice to pick.
Tourist spots: City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Amber or Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, and Alber Hall Museum. Jaipur markets are the best places to find many exotic artifacts and handicrafts of Rajasthani.
Best For: History, architecture, and shopping.
Key Highlights:
- Explore the stunning Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace.
- Stroll through the vibrant Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar for jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.
- Indulge in traditional Rajasthani cuisine, including dal baati churma and laal maas.
Travel Tips:
- Stay in a heritage hotel for a royal experience.
- Visit in winter (October–March) for pleasant weather.
2. Rishikesh:
The Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is a serene and spiritual destination located at the foothills of the Himalayas. Being located on the banks of the river Ganges, this place is set for fantastic adventurous activities to dwell on. Its serene temples, ashrams, and meditation centers make the place resonate with spirituality and serenity.
Tourist spots: Ghats of river Ganga, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Bharat Mandir, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, Beatles Ashram, etc.
Best For: Adventure, spirituality, and nature.
Key Highlights:
- Try white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and cliff jumping.
- Visit Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and Beatles Ashram.
- Participate in evening Ganga Aarti and yoga sessions.
Travel Tips:
- Best time to visit is October–June.
- Pack comfortable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
3. Shimla:
Shimla is a beautiful and chilling hill station located in the northwestern range of the Himalayas. The hill station looks wonderful with its colonial structures and beautiful tourist attractions. Especially, its Mall Road and Ridge are the best places to explore the beauty of Shimla.
Tourist spots: Jakhoo Temple, Viceregal Lodge, Botanical Gardens, Summer Hill, and Mall Road for shopping and tourist gatherings. Close to Shimla, Kufri is the best place for winter sports.
Best For: Scenic views and colonial charm.
Key Highlights:
- Walk along Mall Road, visit Christ Church, and enjoy panoramic views from Jakhoo Temple.
- Explore nearby Kufri for snow activities and horse riding.
- Take a toy train ride from Kalka for an unforgettable journey.
Travel Tips:
- Visit in summer (March–June) or winter (December–February) for snowfall.
- Book accommodations early during peak seasons.
4. Jim Corbett National Park:
Jim Corbett is India’s one of the oldest and most prominent national parks located in Uttarakhand. The national park is spread across 520 sq km and is home to rich biodiversity. Many endangered species of animals and birds are getting shelter in this national park. Important wildlife to spot here are the Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, and nearly 600 species of birds.
Tourist spots: Corbett Museum and Dhikala Zone for staying options and rich forests and wildlife.
Best For: Wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Key Highlights:
- Go on a jungle safari to spot tigers, elephants, and exotic birds.
- Visit Garjiya Devi Temple and enjoy riverside picnics.
- Stay in eco-resorts for an immersive experience.
Travel Tips:
- Safaris need prior booking (best zones: Dhikala, Bijrani).
- Best visited from November to June.
5. Agra:
Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, Agra is all about the beauty of love and Mughal architecture. From the iconic Taj Mahal to many historic wonders of Agra, are just mind-blowing and breathtaking to experience. To explore the intricate and immense architectural beauty of the Mughals, Agra is one of the best places to visit.
Tourist spots: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh, Mughal Heritage Walk, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Chini-ka-Rauza.
Best For: Architecture and history lovers.
Key Highlights:
- Marvel at the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
- Visit Mehtab Bagh for stunning sunset views of the Taj.
- Shop for marble artifacts and enjoy Mughlai cuisine.
Travel Tips:
- Reach via Yamuna Expressway (3-4 hours from Delhi).
- Early morning visits to the Taj Mahal are less crowded.
Weekend Getaways in the Southern Region:
6. Coorg:
Karnataka’s famous hill station, Coorg is a wonderful and splendid destination to live in nature for a while. The hill stationflooded with lush green coffee plantations, hills, picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and thick forests is like a paradise for nature lovers. For wildlife lovers, numerous sanctuaries and national parks stand as major attractions to visit.
Tourist spots: Madikeri town, Abbey Falls, Talakaveri Viewpoint and Temple, Namdroling Monastery, Raja’s Seat, Nagarhole National Park, Pushpagiriand Brahmagiri, Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Best For: Coffee plantations and nature trails.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Raja’s Seat.
- Go trekking at Tadiandamol Peak and river rafting in Barapole.
- Experience plantation stays and try Coorgi pork curry.
Travel Tips:
- Accessible from Bengaluru (5-6 hours).
- Visit during monsoons for lush greenery or winter for cool weather.
Coorg Package: 3 Nights 4 Days Coorg and Mysore Travel Itinerary
7. Munnar:
Familiar with the “Kashmir of South India”, Munnar is a beautiful hill station of Kerala located in the Western Ghats. The pristine hill station filled with numerous hill points, lush green forests, tea plantations, and wildlife attractions justifies its tag as the Kashmir of the South. Moreover, its serene and cool atmosphere will take you to another world of peace.
Tourist spots: Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Matupetty Dam, Top Station Viewpoint, Tea Museum, Pallivasal, and Chinnakanal waterfalls, and also for adventurous activities there is no limit.
Best For: Tea gardens and misty mountains.
Key Highlights:
- Explore Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and Top Station.
- Enjoy walks through tea plantations and taste local brews.
- Visit Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India.
Travel Tips:
- Best time to visit is October–March.
- Pack warm clothing for chilly evenings.
8. Gokarna:
Gokarna is a beautiful and serene coastal town of Karnataka that opens with pristine beaches and sacred temples. The place is quite popular for its Arabian Sea beaches and famous Hindu Temples. For adventure and nature lovers, many places and things of Gokarna are the highlights to enjoy.
Tourist spots: Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, and Shiva Cave Temple. Through boating, you can spot Dolphins in Gokarna.
Best For: Beaches and laid-back vibes.
Key Highlights:
- Relax at Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Half Moon Beach.
- Visit Mahabaleshwar Temple for spiritual rejuvenation.
- Trek between the beaches for stunning coastal views.
Travel Tips:
- Accessible from Goa or Mangalore.
- Best time to visit is October–March.
9. Hampi:
Hampi is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Karnataka known for its historic constructions and monuments. Once Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Kingdom and it boasts rich architectural structures and heritage of the bygone era. For history buffers, this place is an iconic wonder to explore.
Tourist spots: Virupaksha Temple, Lotus Mahal, Vittala Temple, Queen’s Bath, Hemakuta Hill, and Achyutaraya Temple. Hampi Bazar is the best place to shop for wonderful artifacts and handicrafts.
Best For: History and ancient architecture.
Key Highlights:
- Explore the Vijayanagara ruins, Virupaksha Temple, and Matanga Hill.
- Visit the Lotus Mahal and Vithala Temple Complex.
Travel Tips:
- Best visited in winter (October–February).
- Rent a bicycle or scooter for easy exploration.
10. Wayanad:
Located in the western ghats, Wayanad is a nature’s paradise with lush green forests, wildlife sanctuaries, viewpoints, coffee and tea plantations, etc a lot. Simply, Wayanad is an abundant destination for rich natural wealth. With its picturesque landscapes and the beauty of nature, it will make you fall in love with the place. Simply, Wayanad is a heaven on the earth.
Tourist spots: Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Thirunelli Temple, Pookode Lake, Kuruvadweep, and Banasura Sagar Dam.
Best For: Lush greenery and wildlife.
Key Highlights:
- Trek to Chembra Peak and visit the heart-shaped lake.
- Explore Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls.
- Visit Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary for a safari.
Travel Tips:
- Accessible from Kozhikode (3 hours).
- Ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Weekend Getaways in the Eastern Region:
11. Darjeeling:
Located at an altitude of 2000 mt above sea level, Darjeeling is a spectacular hill station in West Bengal. The panoramic views of the Himalayas from this hill station are just mind-blowing and breathtaking. Besides, its tranquil atmosphere, rich culture, lush green tea plantations, viewpoints, etc a lot about Darjeeling will make you speechless.
Tourist spots: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop and War Memorial, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Japanese Peace Pagoda, etc. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a must-try thing to capture the beauty of Darjeeling nature.
Best For: Tea gardens and Himalayan views.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Tour tea estates and sample fresh Darjeeling tea.
Travel Tips: Best visited in summer or autumn for clear mountain views.
12. Shillong:
The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong is a fantastic destination located in the East Khasi Hills. The place is quite famous for its rich culture and natural attractions. Its beautiful waterfalls, viewpoints, and lakes are the center of attraction of the place. Besides, Cherrapunji and Mawsynram known for their record-breaking rainfall are close to Shillong to explore their rich natural wealth.
Tourist spots: Elephant Falls, Sati Falls, Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Wards Lake, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, MawphlangForest, etc.
Best For: Waterfalls and vibrant culture.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, and Ward’s Lake.
- Enjoy Khasi cuisine and local markets.
Travel Tips: Combine with nearby Cherrapunjee for an extended trip.
13. Gangtok:
Nestled in the eastern ranges of the Himalayas, Gangtok is a serene and beautiful place in Sikkim. The place is quite famous for its rich culture, natural attractions, and Buddhist monasteries. The views of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga are just stunning to experience from Gangtok. Simply, a great destination to enjoy untouched nature.
Tourist spots: Changu or Tsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok, Rumtek Monastery, Hanuman Tok, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Do DrulChorten Stupa, Tashi Viewpoint, etc.
Best For: Monasteries, adventure, and breathtaking Himalayan views.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Rumtek Monastery, a major center for Tibetan Buddhism.
- Experience the beauty of Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass, located at high altitudes.
- Stroll along MG Marg, Gangtok’s vibrant street for shopping and cafes.
- Adventure activities like paragliding and cable car rides.
Travel Tips:
- Permits are required for Nathula Pass and some high-altitude areas.
- Ideal time to visit is March-May or September-November for clear weather.
- Warm clothing is a must for high-altitude trips.
14. Tawang:
Located at an altitude of 3,048 mt above sea level, Tawang is a spectacular town located in the Himalayan mountains. It is a great place to witness the majestic views of the Himalayas, other peaks, and beautiful lakes. Besides, the monasteries of the place are other important attractions to explore. Simply, Tawang is a majestic and cultural destination to visit.
Tourist spots: Tawang Monastery, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Sela Pass, Tawang War Memorial, Jang Falls, Pangang Teng Tso Lake, and Gorichen Peak.
Best For: Spiritual retreats, serene landscapes, and snow-clad mountains.
Key Highlights:
- Explore the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India, showcasing Tibetan Buddhist culture.
- Visit the stunning Sela Pass, often covered in snow, and the serene Pankang Teng Tso Lake.
- Pay homage at the Tawang War Memorial, dedicated to Indian soldiers.
Travel Tips:
- Requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for entry into Arunachal Pradesh.
- The best time to visit is March-May for blooming rhododendrons or October-November for snow.
- Roads can be challenging; hire experienced drivers for safety.
15. Puri:
Puri is a beautiful coastal city located on the eastern coast of India in Odisha. The city with beautiful and serene beaches, sacred temples, and artistic villages looks vibrant and authentic to experience like this before. Its rich culture and heritage add more charm to the destination. In a few words, Puri is a simple and authentic place to visit at least once.
Tourist spots: Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Puri Beach, Swargadwar Beach, Konark Beach, Balighai Beach, Chilika Lake, Puri Art and Craft Village.
Best For: Pilgrimage, beach relaxation, and cultural exploration.
Key Highlights:
- Visit the world-famous Jagannath Temple, a key pilgrimage site.
- Witness the architectural brilliance of the nearby Konark Sun Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Relax at Puri Beach or indulge in water sports.
- Take a day trip to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, to spot migratory birds and Irrawaddy dolphins.
Travel Tips:
- Rath Yatra (June-July) attracts massive crowds, so plan accordingly.
- Winter (October-February) is the best time for pleasant weather.
- Explore local markets for Pattachitra paintings and sand art souvenirs.
Weekend Getaways in the Western Region:
16. Lonavala – Khandala:
Lonavala and Khandala are the two twin hill stations of Maharashtra located in the Sahyadri mountain range. The twin hill stations are quite famous for their picturesque landscapes, nature, historic monuments, temples, viewpoints, etc a lot. In the entire West, they are very popular for their beautiful attractions.
Tourist spots: Lion’s Point, Duke’s Nose, Tiger Point, Sunset Point, Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, Tikona Fort, Ekvira Devi Temple, Karla Caves, etc.
Best For: Scenic hill station vibes and lush greenery.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam, and Lohagad Fort for panoramic views.
- Explore Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut structures.
- Relish locally made chikki (traditional sweets).
Travel Tips:
- Best visited during the monsoon (June-September) when waterfalls and greenery are at their peak.
- Combine your trip with a visit to Pawna Lake for camping and boating.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes for exploring forts and caves.
Lonavala & Khandala Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Lonavala Khandala Trip Itinerary
17. Mount Abu:
Mount Abu is the only hill station located in the Rajasthan state. Nestled in the Aravalli range, Mount Abu is a wonderful hill station known for historic forts and constructions, beautiful gardens, temples, and a serene atmosphere. For Rajasthan people, this place is the best escape weekend gateway.
Tourist spots: Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, Achalgarh Fort, Sunset Point, Honeymoon Point, Guru Shikhar, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Peace Park, Brahma Kumaris Peace Park, etc.
Best For: Rajasthan’s only hill station with a mix of nature and history.
Key Highlights:
- Visit the stunning Dilwara Temples, known for their intricate marble carvings.
- Relax by Nakki Lake and enjoy paddle boating.
- Trek to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in Rajasthan, for sweeping views.
- Explore Achalgarh Fort and the Peace Park for a serene experience.
Travel Tips:
- Winter (November-February) is ideal for cool and comfortable weather.
- Don’t miss the Mount Abu Summer Festival (May) for cultural performances and activities.
- Carry light woolens even in summer as evenings can get chilly.
18. Mahabaleshwar:
Another jewel of the Aravalli range, Mahabaleshwar is a wonderful hill station in Maharashtra. The tranquil atmosphere, religious attractions, historic monuments, picturesque landscapes, etc many things in this place made it a paradise for natural lovers to soak in serenity. For those who want to submerge in a tranquil atmosphere, this is the place to visit.
Tourist spots: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head Point, Wilson Point, Mapro Garden, etc.
Best For: Scenic beauty, strawberry farms, and hill station charm.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Wilson Point, the highest point in Mahabaleshwar, for spectacular sunrises.
- Take a boat ride at Venna Lake and enjoy horse riding.
- Explore Pratapgad Fort, steeped in Maratha history.
- Indulge in fresh strawberries and cream from local farms.
Travel Tips:
- Best time to visit is October-May; avoid peak monsoon season.
- Stay in plantation-style resorts for a unique experience.
- Combine with a visit to Panchgani for viewpoints and table-top land adventures.
19. Udaipur:
Very few people live on this earth without knowing about Udaipur. Such a lovely and romantic destination in Rajasthan. Known for architectural marvels, beautiful lakes, palaces, gardens, etc for many things Udaipur is the best to explore. For its stunning attractions and wonders, the city is also called the “Venice of the East” and “City of Lakes”. Especially for a romantic weekend gateway, this is the best choice.
Tourist spots: Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, City Palace, Saheliyon-ki-Bari, Jagdish Temple, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Monsoon Palace, etc.
Best For: Romance, heritage, and lakeside relaxation.
Key Highlights:
- Tour the City Palace, a magnificent architectural marvel with a museum and stunning lake views.
- Enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, visiting Jag Mandir and Lake Palace.
- Visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, a lush garden adorned with fountains and marble structures.
- Explore Fateh Sagar Lake and nearby Monsoon Palace for panoramic views.
Travel Tips:
- Winter (October-March) is the best time to visit.
- Shop at local markets for Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
- Book a cultural dinner experience with folk performances at Bagore Ki Haveli.
20. Daman and Diu:
Located on the western coast of the Arabian Sea, Daman and Diu is a union territory known for wonderful tourist attractions. Its serene beaches, historic forts, colonial structures, religious sites, etc many things stand as the major attractions to explore in Daman and Diu. For adventurous thrillers, there is no dearth of water sports to dwell on.
Tourist spots: Devka Beach, Moti Daman Beach, Jampore Beach, Ghogla Beach, Gomtimata Beach, Nagoa Beach, Diu Fort, St. Paul’s Church, Somnath Mahadev Temple, Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, etc.
Best For: Beachside relaxation and Portuguese heritage.
Key Highlights:
- Relax at Jampore Beach in Daman or Nagoa Beach in Diu.
- Visit Diu Fort, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and historical significance.
- Explore the Naida Caves, known for their intriguing rock formations.
- Admire the architecture of St. Paul’s Church, a fine example of Baroque design.
Travel Tips:
- Winter (October-February) is ideal for exploring and enjoying the beaches.
- Daman and Diu are separate regions, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Savor seafood delicacies and Feni (local liquor).
Daman & Diu Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Daman Diu Travel Itinerary
From any corner of India, if you want to escape for a short weekend trip, these are all the options to search for. Every place is a marvel of its uniqueness and attractions to relax and soak in peace to switch off your work mode.
Further Insights:
- Top 10 Weekend Getaways from Coimbatore
- Romantic Getaways Near Pune: Top 10 Places
- 12 Places to Visit near Hyderabad
- Top 10 Weekend Gateways from Patna
- 10 Famous Weekend Getaways from Mumbai
- Top 10 Relaxing Weekend Getaways near Ranakpur
- 10 Best Weekend Getaways from Dehradun
- Best 10 Short Trip Places from Gurgaon
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are some ideal destinations for a short weekend trip in India?
Great options include Lonavala, Jaipur, Rishikesh, Pondicherry, Mysore, Shimla, Udaipur, and Goa.
2. Why is Lonavala a good choice for a weekend trip?
Lonavala, near Mumbai and Pune, offers scenic views, waterfalls, forts, and attractions like Tiger’s Leap and Bhushi Dam.
3. What can I do in Jaipur during a weekend?
Jaipur, the Pink City, offers heritage experiences with visits to Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and local bazaars like Johari Bazaar.
4. Why is Rishikesh popular for a weekend getaway?
Rishikesh is perfect for adventure and spirituality, offering river rafting, yoga retreats, and peaceful Ganga ghats.
5. What makes Pondicherry ideal for a short trip?
Pondicherry’s French-inspired architecture, serene beaches, and cafes make it a relaxing weekend destination.
6. Is Mysore suitable for a weekend trip?
Yes, Mysore is great for exploring Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, and the vibrant Devaraja Market in a short span of time.
7. What can I do in Shimla over a weekend?
Shimla offers scenic views, walks on Mall Road, and visits to attractions like Jakhoo Temple and Christ Church.
8. When is the best time to plan a weekend getaway in India?
The best time depends on the destination but generally, October to March offers pleasant weather for most places.
