Independence Day Long Weekend Getaways in India

Table Of Content- 

1. Majuli - Assam's River Island Paradise
2. Khajjiar - The Mini Switzerland of India
3. Dzukou Valley - Nagaland's Hidden Gem
4. Gokarna - A Beach Lover's Delight
5. Jaipur - The Pink City's Grandeur
6. Srinagar - The Jewel of Kashmir
7. Rann of Kutch - A White Wonderland
8. Darjeeling - The Queen of Hills

As the 76th Independence Day of India approaches, it's time to embrace the spirit of freedom and embark on an exhilarating long weekend getaway to explore the hidden gems and iconic destinations of our incredible country. Whether you yearn for serene river islands, dream of mini-Switzerland landscapes, seek hidden valley treasures, crave tranquil beach retreats, desire royal grandeur, or wish to immerse in the beauty of Kashmir, there's a destination tailored for every traveler. 

We are here to add more excitement by offering amazing discounts for this special occasion! Use the exclusive coupon code "TRIPEMT" during your Flight, Hotel, and Bus bookings with EaseMyTrip to unlock fantastic deals and make your Independence Day trip truly unforgettable. Read this blog till the end and get to know what all offers you can avail under this magical coupon code.

Get ready to celebrate freedom, pride, and the wonders of India with this thrilling and diverse collection of destinations. 

Experience the Magic of India: Places to spend Long Weekends in India

1. Majuli - Assam's River Island Paradise 

Escape the chaos of the city and head to Majuli, the world's largest river island, nestled in the mighty Brahmaputra River. This offbeat destination offers a serene environment, picturesque landscapes, and a unique cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Mishing tribe, witness traditional dance performances, and explore the island's ancient Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries). Majuli's tranquillity and beauty will leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected with nature.

Things to Do

• Visit the Mishing villages to learn about their indigenous way of life and customs.
• Attend mesmerizing traditional dance performances showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
• Explore the ancient Satras, where monks practice the traditional dance-drama "Sattriya."
• Take a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River during sunrise or sunset for stunning views.

How to Reach

To reach Majuli, first, fly to Jorhat Airport in Assam. From the airport, take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to Neemati Ghat, where you can board a ferry to Majuli. The scenic ferry ride takes around an hour to reach the island.

2. Khajjiar - The Mini Switzerland of India

If you've ever dreamed of visiting Switzerland, Khajjiar will make your dream come true! This offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh is often called the "Mini Switzerland of India" due to its breathtaking meadows, dense forests, and stunning landscapes. The picturesque Khajjiar Lake and the Khajji Nag Temple are must-visit spots. Indulge in horse riding, trekking, and enjoying the cool climate of this Himalayan gem.

Things to Do

• Explore the mesmerizing Khajjiar Lake and its surroundings, offering a perfect spot for picnics and photography.
• Visit the Khajji Nag Temple, dedicated to the serpent god, and admire its unique architecture.
• Enjoy horse riding or take a leisurely stroll in the vast meadows of Khajjiar, surrounded by cedar trees.
• Embark on a trek to the nearby Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic views.

How to Reach 

To reach Khajjiar, you can take a train to Pathankot, followed by a taxi or a local bus to Khajjiar. Alternatively, you can hire a cab from major nearby cities like Delhi or Chandigarh.

3. Dzukou Valley - Nagaland's Hidden Gem 

Tucked away in Nagaland, Dzukou Valley is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. The valley is adorned with vibrant flowers, rolling hills, and gurgling streams, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The enchanting beauty of the valley and the challenging trek to reach there are rewarded with a feeling of serenity and oneness with nature.

Things to Do

• Trek through picturesque landscapes and dense forests to reach the Dzukou Valley.
• Marvel at the seasonal flower blooms that turn the valley into a carpet of colors.
• Camp under the starry sky and experience the tranquillity of nature.
• Capture breathtaking views of the valley from vantage points like Japfu Peak.

How to Reach

To reach Dzukou Valley, you can fly to Dimapur Airport in Nagaland. From Dimapur, travel to Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland, by road. From Kohima, you can drive to the Dzukou Valley trek starting point, which takes about 2-3 hours. The trek to the valley takes around 4-5 hours.

4. Gokarna - A Beach Lover's Delight 

For those seeking a quieter beach experience, Gokarna in Karnataka is an ideal choice. With its pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and laid-back atmosphere, Gokarna exudes a different kind of charm. Om Beach and Kudle Beach are perfect spots for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the Arabian Sea. Don't forget to visit the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple, adding a touch of spirituality to your beach retreat.

Things to Do

• Relax on the serene beaches of Gokarna, bask in the warm sun, and enjoy beachside yoga and meditation.
• Explore the stunning rock formations and cliffs along the coast.
• Take a dip in the sacred waters of the Mahabaleshwar Temple and soak in its spiritual aura.
• Enjoy water sports like surfing and banana boat rides on the beaches.

How to Reach

To reach Gokarna, you can fly to Goa International Airport, which is the nearest major airport. From Goa, you can take a taxi or a bus to Gokarna, which is about a 3–4-hour journey. Alternatively, you can reach Gokarna by train to Gokarna Road Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India.

5. Jaipur - The Pink City's Grandeur 

Discover the royal grandeur of Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, fondly known as the Pink City. Explore the splendid Amer Fort, marvel at the intricate architecture of the City Palace, and capture the artistic facade of Hawa Mahal. Shop for exquisite Rajasthani handicrafts in the bustling markets and indulge in a delectable Rajasthani meal. Jaipur's rich heritage and colourful culture promise an unforgettable experience.

Things to Do

• Visit the magnificent Amer Fort, located on a hilltop, and enjoy an elephant ride to the fort entrance.
• Explore the City Palace complex, housing museums, courtyards, and beautiful gardens.
• Admire the stunning facade of Hawa Mahal, known as the Palace of Winds, and learn about its history.
• Shop for traditional Rajasthani textiles, handicrafts, and jewellery in Jaipur's vibrant markets.

How to Reach

To reach Jaipur, you can fly to Jaipur International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jaipur Junction Railway Station, which is connected to various cities across the country.

6. Srinagar - The Jewel of Kashmir

Experience the heaven on earth, Srinagar, located in the picturesque Kashmir Valley. Sail on the serene Dal Lake in a traditional Shikara, and stay in a charming houseboat. Visit the famous Mughal Gardens, like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, and embrace the mesmerizing beauty of the snow-capped mountains. Srinagar's unmatched natural beauty and warm hospitality will leave you spellbound.

Things to Do

• Take a peaceful Shikara ride on the enchanting Dal Lake, passing by floating gardens and houseboats.
• Stay in a houseboat to experience the unique charm of living on the water.
• Explore the Mughal Gardens, showcasing the finest examples of Mughal architecture and stunning landscapes.
• Visit Shankaracharya Temple, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and the surrounding mountains.

How to Reach 

To reach Srinagar, you can fly to Srinagar International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Jammu, which is around 270 kilometres away, and enjoy a scenic journey through the beautiful Kashmir Valley.

7. Rann of Kutch - A White Wonderland 

Witness the surreal landscape of the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat during the Independence Day long weekend. The salt desert stretches endlessly, creating an otherworldly experience. Visit the Rann during the full moon nights to witness the magical Rann Utsav, a festival celebrating the vibrant culture of Gujarat. The dance performances, local crafts, and the vast expanse of the white desert will make this trip an unforgettable one.

Things to Do

• Visit the Rann during the Rann Utsav to experience Gujarat's rich culture through folk performances and handicrafts.
• Witness dance forms like Garba and Bhujia during the festive nights.
• Enjoy camel safaris in the desert and witness stunning sunrises and sunsets.
• Visit nearby villages to learn about the traditional art forms and way of life.

How to Reach

To reach the Rann of Kutch, you can fly to Bhuj Airport in Gujarat, which is the nearest major airport. From Bhuj, you can hire a taxi to reach the Rann of Kutch, which is around 80 kilometres away.

8. Darjeeling - The Queen of Hills 

Escape to the charming hill station of Darjeeling in West Bengal, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and lush tea gardens. Experience the joy of riding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea while watching the sunrise from Tiger Hill. The serene ambiance and cool climate make Darjeeling a perfect getaway for a relaxing Independence Day weekend.

Things to Do

• Take a memorable ride on the Toy Train, enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding hills and tea gardens.
• Watch the sunrise from Tiger Hill and witness the stunning play of colors on the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga.
• Visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a tea tasting session.
• Explore the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, known for its conservation efforts of endangered species like the red panda and snow leopard.

How to Reach 

To reach Darjeeling, you can fly to Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is the nearest major airport. From Bagdogra, you can take a taxi or a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling, which is around 70 kilometers away.

Conclusion

This Independence Day long weekend, seize the opportunity to explore the hidden gems and iconic destinations that adorn the diverse tapestry of India. EaseMyTrip's unbeatable offers, combined with the exclusive coupon code "TRIPEMT," make it the perfect time to plan your adventure.

Under this coupon code, you can get INR 400 OFF on one-way Domestic Flights (min. booking: Rs. 3,000), INR 700 OFF on round-trip within India (min. booking: Rs. 3,500), INR 1000 OFF on International Flights (min. booking: Rs. 15,000). Enjoy INR 500 OFF on select Hotels (min. booking: Rs. 3,000) & INR 120 OFF on Bus reservations (min. booking: Rs. 1,200). 

Whether you seek tranquility in the lap of nature or wish to indulge in cultural grandeur, there's a destination to suit every traveler's taste. So, pack your bags, book your flight tickets and  let your spirit soar, and celebrate the essence of freedom by exploring the beauty and wonder that our remarkable nation has to offer. Happy travels and a proud Independence Day to all!