Long weekends feel like little getaways that everyone looks forward to, right? And when we talk about long weekends, that patriotic long weekend from August 15th to 17th is just around the corner! I bet many of you have already mapped out your plans. But if you haven’t, don’t fret! unstumbled has got some awesome last-minute ideas for you to make the most of this patriotic long weekend. Let’s dive in!
Independence Day Getaways
Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a beautiful town in Maharashtra and is known for its scenic beauty, adventurous activities, and spiritual significance. The town is nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range, which transforms into a haven during the monsoon season.
Visit: Dhamma Giri Vipassana, Amruteshwar temple, Ghantadevi temple, Bhavali Dam, Myanmar Gate.
How To Reach
By train: There are many weekly trains to Igatpuri, which will take about 2 to 2.5 hours.
By road: You can either take a regular/private bus or go on a road trip to Igatpuri, which will take about 2 – 3 hours.
Murud
Murud is a well-known tourist destination located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. The town has many beautiful temples, pristine beaches, and historic spots that are a must-visit. If you are a seafood lover, you will surely fall in love with the local seafood delicacies here.
Visit: Murud-Janjira fort, Siddhivinayak temple, Padmadurg fort, Kashid beach, Nandgaon beach.
How To Reach
By train: The nearest railway station to Murud is Roha, and from Roha, you can take a local bus to Murud, which will be a one-hour journey.
By road: You can choose to go on a road trip to Murud, which will take around 4 hours, depending on the time and traffic. You can also take a local or private bus, which might take 4-5 hours.
Daman And Diu
Daman and Diu is a union territory located on the western coast of India, known for its peaceful seaside atmosphere. In addition to its tranquil environment, the area features stunning beaches and historic forts. It is an ideal destination for adventurous individuals looking to engage in water sports.
Visit: Ghoghla beach, Devka beach, Diu fort, Naidu caves.
If you want to try jet skiing, parasailing, and boat rides, you must visit Jampore and Nagao beach.
How To Reach
By train: You can take a train to Vapi, and from Vapi, you can go to Daman railway station. From Daman station, you can take a bus or a cab to Daman city.
By road: If you are thinking of going on a road trip to Daman, taking the NH48 can help you reach Daman in 3-4 hours. A road trip to Diu will take about 7 hours.
Goa
If you think Goa is not a monsoon destination, you must visit it for a thought and life-changing experience. The state shows its most beautiful side during this season with a tranquil atmosphere, brimming rivers, cascading waterfalls, and greenery everywhere. It is more about slowing down, relishing local cuisine, and just relaxing.
Visit: Spice plantations, Fontainhas, Chorao’s backwater routes, Keri beach, Patnem beach, and Divar Island.
How To Reach
By air: The fastest way to reach Goa for a long weekend is by flight.
By train: You can go to Goa by train, which will take about 8 hours, depending on the route of the train.
By road: If you take private buses to Goa, it will take more than 15 hours. You can also opt for a road trip to the state; it will take you about 12 hours.
Gokarna
Gokarna is said to be in Karnataka’s Goa. The beautiful town is known for its pristine beaches and temples. During monsoons, Gokarna turns into a lush green town with gushing waterfalls, misty hills, and scenic landscapes. Even though the monsoon season does not have many water sports, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty, beach walk, and local cuisine.
Visit: Kudle beach, Mahabaleshwar temple, Koti Teertha, Gokarna Beach Trek
How to Reach
By air: The fastest way to reach Gokarna is by air if you want to make the most of the long weekend.
By train: You can go to Gokarna by train, which will take around 18 hours, depending on o the route.
By road: If you wish to go on a road trip to Gokarna, it will take about 14 hours. You can opt for private buses, which take you about 18 to 20 hours.
Udaipur
During the monsoon, this city of lakes turns into a green paradise. The lakes are all brimming, the weather is cool, and there is serenity in the air. The city is the perfect place for couples, as Udaipur turns into a dreamy, romantic place during monsoons. From walking on the rain-washed streets to exploring royal palaces, Udaipur is a must-visit during monsoons.
Visit: City Palace, Bagore ki Haveli, Old City Walks, Fateh Sagar Lake
How To Reach
By air: Just on the outskirts of the city is the Maharana Pratap Airport, and it is well connected to major metro cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Kolkata.
By train: There are about two to three weekly trains to Udaipur from Mumbai and Delhi, which might take about 18 hours.
By road: You can go to Udaipur by road if you are travelling from Delhi, Mumbai, or Ahmedabad, as these cities are comparatively closer.
Kutch
Kutch in the monsoon season actually transforms the cracked, dry land into a lush, green scenic beauty. You can expect a completely different experience of visiting Kutch in monsoons as compared to dry winter visits. With a cooler atmosphere, lush greenery around, and unique experiences, this is a must-visit.
Visit: Bhuj, Pragmahal, Dholavira, Chhari Dhand Wetland
How to Reach
By air: The closest airport to Kutch is the Bhuj airport. You can take a cab from Bhuj airport to Kutch, which is about 1 hour and 20 minutes away.
By train: The closest railway station is Bhuj airport, and then you can take a cab to Kutch, which is a 1-hour 20-minute drive.
By road: You can take a private bus to Bhuj or a road trip, which might take 13-15 hours.
Summing Up
The long weekend is just around the corner, and if you haven’t yet planned anything, do not waste your time anymore! Check out the places mentioned above and see which place seems like the best fit for you, and plan accordingly. Happy travel!
