Independence Day long weekend: 5 destinations to visit

If Delhi is the city you call home, Ladakh in Jammu & Kashmir is a great Independence Day weekend destination option. Known for its stark landscape, stunning lakes, crystal clear skies and beautiful monasteries, Ladakh is an ideal destination for every kind of traveller. It is a haven for adventure seekers who love to off-road on the Leh-Manali highway and indulge in activities like river rafting on the Zanskar River. There are even plenty of opportunities to trek and explore the unexplored bits of this place. However, it is also a serene escape for luxury lovers who would like to spend their time relaxing in luxurious properties.

The attractions you must visit here -

The Pangong Lake - as seen in the movie 3 Idiots, is a high-altitude lake known for its changing hues. It is stunning and otherworldly and hence one of the most photographed spots in Ladakh.

Nubra Valley - It is a cold desert with beautiful white dunes, the infamous Bactrian camels and peaceful monasteries where you are sure to find your true self if you just try.

Hemis Monastery - One of the most visited monasteries in Ladakh, it also happens to be the largest and the wealthiest in the region. It is known for its annual Hemis festival which usually takes place in June but be rest assured, even without the festival this monastery is worth a visit.

Bangaloreans, if you are tired of the hustle and bustle of city life and your choice of Independence Day long weekend activities is to immerse yourself in the history and heritage of an old city, Mysore is the place to be. Located just under 3 hours away from Bangalore, Mysore is a city of palaces, temples and gardens.

The city is also known for its exquisite Mysore silk sarees and sandalwood and rosewood artefacts. You’ll even be surprised to see the intricate work the artisans do on stone sculptures. They all make great gifts to take back home for your family.

Places to visit in Mysore -

The Mysore Palace - It is a grand palace that lights up with thousands of lights during the evenings and offers an insight into Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is a popular destination that attracts crowds throughout the year so plan well in advance and avoid visiting during the day to experience the true beauty of it.

Chamundi Hill - Chamundi Hill gets its name from the Chamundeshwari Temple which is situated on the hill. The ride to the top of the hill is an exhilarating experience with lush greenery and cooler temperatures and the peak offers panoramic views of the city making the ride there worth it.

Brindavan Gardens - If you are into lights and sound shows, this garden is the place to be.  Known for its musical fountain show and beautifully landscaped gardens, this place is a popular destination amongst travellers and locals alike. Avoid the heat and plan a visit here during the evening to get a glimpse of the beautiful garden in bloom while still being able to catch the musical show.

This one isn't for the faint-hearted. If you are from the city of Joy, the beautiful city of Darjeeling is an exhilarating 15 hour drive away but it is definitely worth it. Darjeeling is one of the best Independence Day weekend staycation destinations since this place is perched in the foothills of the Himalayas and is home to some of the most luxurious properties. 

Known for its tea plantations and colonial architecture balanced with stunning panoramic views of the mountain, Darjeeling will serve as the perfect romantic Independence Day weekend getaway. 

Must-see attractions in Darjeeling - 

Tiger Hill - A mountain located in Darjeeling that offers unmatched views of Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. It is perfect for a sunrise view and definitely worth waking up early and making the climb for. 

Batasia Loop and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - The infamous toy train route in Darjeeling is what dreams are made of. It takes you through a spiral ascent where you are presented with scenic views with every turn. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site because of the narrow route that takes you through tea gardens and hills.

There's no way we would talk about an extended Independence Day weekend staycation idea without including the party capital of India - Goa. Known for its beautiful beaches, marvellous Portuguese architecture and a dynamic nightlife - Goa is the place to be if your idea of a vacation is relaxation with a side of adventure. 

North Goa is popular among party goers since it is the centre of the party scene in Goa but South Goa offers a serene, relaxed and slow vibe that has a charm and an impact of its own. You can split your town between the two sides and enjoy the best of both. Don't forget to enjoy lip-smacking sea food and exploring flea markets for full effect. 

Things you must do in Goa -

Baga Beach - One of the most popular beaches in Goa and hence attracts a lot of crowd but the shacks and nightlife here is unmatched. You can spend your day looking at the water under the sun or switch up at night and enjoy the cool breeze. This beach also offers an opportunity to indulge in water sports. 

Basilica of Bom Jesus - If this would be your first time in Goa, we recommend you visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. It is an iconic church and provides a great insight into Renaissance Baroque and the Portuguese colonial architecture scene. 

Dudhsagar Falls - If the party life gets monotonous and you would like to explore adventurous activities, you can make your way to Dudhsagar falls. Located on the Goa-Karnataka border, this majestic waterfall is a vision during the monsoon season and does full justice to its name. The falls are named 'Dudhsagar' which means ‘Milky white sea’ because the cascading effect of the falls gives the illusion of milk falling off the cliff.

If you are looking for historical sites to visit on Independence Day weekend, we have just the place in mind. Agra, the home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal, has so much to offer. It is a city steeped in Mughal history and architecture which takes you back to centuries ago and gives you an idea of what life must have been like back then. 

Agra is a great place for a romantic Independence Day getaway as just being around Taj Mahal, the ultimate symbol of love, makes you believe in the idea of romance all over again. Indulge in a portion of Agra Petha and enjoy the charm of small town vibes. 

Must-See Attractions - 

Agra Fort - Taj Mahal is a given but the Agra Fort is also a place to be explored. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Agra. This red sandstone monument used to be the main residence of the Mughal emperors. 

Fatehpur Sikri - The sandstone city, Fatehpur Sikri was built by Akbar and is known for its stunning palaces, mosques, and the Buland Darwaza. The city showcases a fusion of Hindu, Jain and Islamic architecture.