The year 2025 is packed with exciting long weekends, giving you plenty of chances to escape the daily grind and explore new places. Instead of traveling to the usual tourist spots, why not try something different? In this blog, we've put together a list of lesser-known destinations ideal for all kinds of travelers. These offbeat destinations offer memorable and calmer experiences away from the crowds, perfect for recharging and relaxing your mind. From scenic hideaways to quiet mountain escapes, these selected spots will help you make the most of your long weekends in 2025, creating lasting memories away from the usual tourist routes.
Long Weekends in 2025
The first long weekend this year starts with a four-day break from January 11 to 14 for Makar Sankranti and Pongal. Taking Monday off makes it a great time for a getaway. In March, there are two long weekends, one from March 14 to 16 due to Holi and another for Eid-ul-Fitr from March 29 to 31.
April offers a four-day weekend from April 10 to 13 for Mahavir Jayanti if you take Friday off, plus a three-day break for Good Friday from April 18 to 20. May brings a three-day weekend from May 10 to 12 for Buddha Purnima, ideal for a quick weekend escape mid-year.
August has a long weekend for Independence Day from August 15 to 17, and September brings two long weekends: September 4 to 7, Onam, four days if Friday is taken off, and Milad-un-Nabi from September 5 to 7.
Additionally, October has two long weekends, Dussehra from October 2 to 5, four days with Friday off, and Diwali from October 18 to 20, providing a festive three-day break. The year ends with a four-day weekend, taking Friday off for Christmas from December 25 to 28, wrapping the year with a relaxing break.
Offbeat Destinations in India to Travel During Long Weekends in 2025
Lava, West Bengal
Lava, a quiet hill station in West Bengal, is a good option to spend your long weekends in 2025 for those looking for a serene and scenic escape. It is known for its cool weather and lush forests, and the Neora Valley National Park, a hotspot for birdwatching and trekking, is just a short distance away. You can also explore the local Buddhist monasteries in the region. Don't miss the view of Kanchenjunga from Rishop, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains. When it comes to food, Lava's local cuisine offers comfort with dishes like momos, thukpa, and simple rice and dal meals that'll warm your heart.
Ideal time to visit: March to June
Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh offers an idyllic escape with its lush coffee plantations, misty hills, and sparkling waterfalls. The valley offers trekking routes that take you through dense forests and rolling hills, as well as a scenic train ride from Visakhapatnam to Araku, which offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats. You can also learn about the local tribal cultures at tribal museums. Food in Araku is a treat, with local Andhra dishes like spicy chutneys, Andhra chicken curry, and dosas making the food experience as rich as the landscape. Araku Valley is a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation, perfect for a long weekend getaway.
Ideal time to visit: September to February
Majuli, Assam
As the world's largest river island, Majuli is a peaceful destination where you can experience the traditional Assamese way of life. The island is home to numerous monasteries where you can witness dance, music, and other cultural performances. The natural beauty of Majuli, with its rivers, wetlands, and seasonal bird-watching opportunities, makes it a perfect place to connect with nature. The food here is simple and delicious, with rice, fish, and bamboo shoots making up the staples of the local cuisine. The region offers a quiet retreat away from the hustle of modern lifestyle, ideal for long weekends in 2025.
Ideal time to visit: October to April
Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna is a small coastal town in Karnataka known for its pleasant beaches and relaxed vibe. Unlike its more popular neighbor, Goa, Gokarna offers a more peaceful experience with beaches like Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Half Moon Beach. You can enjoy quiet beach time or try your hand at water sports like parasailing. Gokarna is also a spiritual destination, home to the famous Gokarna Temple, which attracts pilgrims from all over the country. The local food is full of flavors, with delicious seafood and traditional coastal Karnataka dishes like neer dosa, fish curry, crab masala, and the famous Gokarna-style prawns. Gokarna is perfect for those who want to enjoy a calm beach experience away from the crowds while also delving into the spiritual heritage of the place.
Ideal time to visit: October to March
Nubra Valley, Ladakh
Nubra Valley is a highly recommended offbeat destination for those seeking adventure and stunning landscapes. Known for its vast, cold desert landscapes, Nubra offers camel rides on the famous dunes of Hunder, with views of snow-capped mountains in the distance. Trekking to Buddhist monasteries like Diskit Monastery is a great way to experience the local culture and spirituality. The valley's unique mix of Tibetan Buddhist heritage and desert landscapes offers an otherworldly experience. The local cuisine, influenced by Tibetan culture, includes dishes like thukpa, momos, and butter tea.
Ideal time to visit: April to June and September to October
Bundi, Rajasthan
Bundi, a lesser-known town in Rajasthan, is known for its impressive palaces, forts, and step-wells. The place provides an authentic Rajasthani experience without the large crowds. Visit the Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort, and the beautiful Chhatri Cenotaphs to discover the town's rich history. Bundi has an old-world charm, with its narrow streets and vibrant markets. The Rajasthani cuisine is also a major highlight, with dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas making the culinary experience just as rich as the cultural one. Bundi offers a quiet escape from the more commercialized parts of Rajasthan, making it an ideal place to soak in history, architecture, and local cuisine during long weekends in 2025.
Ideal time to visit: October to March
Devprayag, Uttarakhand
Devprayag, located in Uttarakhand, is a sacred town where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers merge to form the holy Ganga. The Raghunath Temple, perched on a hilltop, offers a chance for reflection and tranquility, while the surrounding hills provide stunning views. The food here is simple, with local vegetarian dishes and a wide array of fruits and vegetables grown in the region. Devprayag's spiritual vibe, combined with its natural surroundings, makes it a perfect destination for a peaceful retreat during long weekends in 2025.
Ideal time to visit: April to June and October to November
Lunglei, Mizoram
Lunglei, a lesser-known town in Mizoram, offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty of Northeast India in its purest form. The town is perfect for those wanting to connect with nature and explore tribal cultures. You can visit Rih Dil Lake, a sacred spot for the local people, or take a trek through the rolling hills to explore nearby villages. The food here, mainly rice and pork-based dishes, offers a distinct Mizo flavor. Lunglei is ideal for anyone looking to escape into a peaceful, unspoiled corner of India.
Ideal time to visit: October to March
Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand
Naukuchiatal, a serene lakeside town in Uttarakhand, is an ideal spot for a quiet, nature-filled getaway during your long weekends in 2025. Surrounded by scenic hills and greenery, the lake here is perfect for boating, and the surroundings offer beautiful nature walks and birdwatching opportunities. For adventure enthusiasts, paragliding is an exciting activity available in the region. The food in Naukuchital includes simple, hearty Garhwali dishes such as a variety of dals and locally grown vegetables.
Ideal time to visit: March to June and September to November
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Mawlynnong is the cleanest village in Asia. It is surrounded by scenic views and lush greenery, with the famous Living Root Bridge nearby. The village's commitment to cleanliness and eco-tourism makes it a standout destination. You can enjoy nature walks, explore local villages, and savor traditional Khasi food, which includes rice, pork curry, and bamboo shoot dishes.
Ideal time to visit: June to November
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Known for its serene rice fields and the unique Apatani tribal culture, Ziro offers a peaceful retreat far from the usual tourist crowds. Visitors can explore the lush, picturesque landscapes, trek through the rice fields, and immerse themselves in the local way of life. The region’s food, with its simple yet flavorful rice, meat, and fermented dishes, gives a taste of local traditions. Ziro’s cool weather and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal place for a relaxing, offbeat escape.
Ideal time to visit: March to October
Chopta, Uttarakhand
This place, also known as the 'Mini Switzerland of India,' is an offbeat destination in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is known for its beautiful meadows, snow-capped peaks, and lush greenery, Chopta is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. You can embark on treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila Peak, both offering spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges. The serene surroundings and quiet atmosphere make it a great place for unwinding. Local food in Chopta is simple but hearty, with dishes like dal, rice, and aloo-ke-gutke providing the perfect comfort after a long trek.
Ideal time to visit: March to May
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