Holi long weekend getaways: From Lansdowne¡¯s hills to Neemrana¡¯s heritage, discover these lesser-known escapes

Holi 2025 brings a long weekend, making it the perfect time for a short getaway. Whether you want a peaceful retreat in the hills or a cultural experience in a historic fort, India offers plenty of options. Here¡¯s a list of the best places to visit this Holi long weekend.

Lansdowne: A quiet hill station with scenic views and adventure

Lansdowne, a hill station in Uttarakhand¡¯s Pauri Garhwal district, is an ideal place to relax in the middle of nature. While it may seem like a peaceful retreat, there are several interesting activities to explore.

Credit: Wikimedia commons

A great way to start is with a visit to Bhulla Taal, a small man-made lake surrounded by pine forests. A small park nearby has rabbits, swans, and hamsters, making it a fun spot for animal lovers. There is also a small restaurant where one can enjoy hot parathas and tea. For those who love scenic views, Tip-N-Top is a must-visit. This is the highest point in Lansdowne, offering a clear view of snow-covered mountains on sunny days. It¡¯s a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset in peace.

Another important site is the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is surrounded by cedar, pine, and deodar trees, making it a peaceful place for meditation. The temple is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors can even stay at the dharamshala nearby.

For wildlife lovers, the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve is an exciting place to visit. Spread across 301.80 sq. km, it is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and many bird species. A safari through this reserve offers a chance to see these animals in their natural habitat. Lastly, food lovers can enjoy Garhwali cuisine, a mix of simple yet flavorful North Indian dishes. Local eateries serve traditional meals that perfectly match the cool weather of the hills.

Lansdowne is well-connected by road, rail, and air. If one is traveling by road from Delhi, the most common route is via Meerut, Bijnor, Najibabad, and Kotdwar, covering approximately 250 km. The roads are in good condition, especially with the Delhi-Meerut Expressway making the journey smoother. Buses are also available from Delhi to Kotdwar, from where one can take a taxi or shared jeep to reach Lansdowne. The nearest railway station is in Kotdwar, about 40 km away, with several trains like the Mussoorie Express and Shatabdi Express running from Delhi. From Kotdwar, taxis and shared jeeps are available to complete the journey. If one prefers to travel by air, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 152 km away.

Neemrana: A historic fort with adventure and culture

Neemrana, a small town in Rajasthan¡¯s Alwar district, is known for its historical significance and cultural experiences. While it may not have a long list of tourist spots, the few available activities offer a memorable experience.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The highlight of Neemrana is its Neemrana Fort-Palace, built in 1864 AD during the rule of Raja Prithvi Raj Chauhan. The fort has been converted into a heritage hotel but still retains its royal charm. Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy cultural performances organised by the Neemrana Music Foundation on weekends. These events feature classical music and dance performances by renowned artists from India and abroad, showcasing Rajasthan¡¯s artistic heritage.

For adventure seekers, zip lining is an exciting activity. Flying at a speed of 40 km/h, visitors can glide over five hills while enjoying an aerial view of Neemrana Fort and the surrounding town. This thrilling experience is one of the most popular activities in the area.

To experience Rajasthan¡¯s traditional lifestyle, visitors can take a camel ride around Neemrana Fort-Palace. Camels, once a primary mode of transport in Rajasthan, offer a glimpse into the region¡¯s cultural past. Another must-visit site is the Neemrana Baori, an ancient stepwell built for water conservation.

The town is located about 122 km from Delhi, and the easiest way to reach it is by road via NH48. Several buses and taxis operate between Delhi, Jaipur, and Alwar, making the journey convenient. If one prefers traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Rewari, which is around 38 km away. From Rewari, taxis and buses are available to Neemrana. For those traveling by air, the nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, located approximately 108 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Neemrana comfortably.

Varkala: A beach town with cliffs, ayurveda, and yoga

Varkala is a small beach town in Kerala, known for its stunning red sandstone cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea. The town has a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place for a relaxing getaway. The main attraction is Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach, where visitors can enjoy the sea breeze, take long walks along the shore, or watch the sunset. The beach is also a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, where rituals for departed souls are performed.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Apart from the beach, the 2,000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an important religious site. The beach itself is where many Hindu ceremonies take place, as people believe that bathing in its waters washes away sins. For those looking for wellness experiences, Varkala offers a range of Ayurvedic treatments and massages. Since Kerala is considered the birthplace of Ayurveda, there are many clinics and spas offering therapies for relaxation and healing. Yoga is also popular here, with several centers providing classes, retreats, and professional courses. Food lovers can explore Kerala¡¯s cuisine, especially the fresh seafood dishes available at beachside eateries. Traditional meals include sambar, avial, and Kerala-style fish curry, all made with aromatic spices and coconut.

The nearest airport is Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) International Airport, about 40 km away. From there, travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Varkala. By train, the Varkala-Sivagiri Railway Station is the closest stop, with direct trains from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. Alternatively, travelers can take a train to Trivandrum and then continue to Varkala by local train or bus. For those driving, Varkala is accessible via National Highway 47, with regular government and private bus services from major cities in Kerala and nearby states.

Araku Valley: A scenic getaway with waterfalls and tribal culture

Araku Valley, located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, is a beautiful hill station known for its green landscapes, tribal heritage, and coffee plantations. Surrounded by forests and waterfalls, it is a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The valley is home to the famous Borra Caves, one of India¡¯s largest natural caves, formed by limestone deposits. These caves are known for their unique rock formations and the play of natural light filtering through openings in the ceiling. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot golden geckos and bats inside the caves.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Katiki Falls, located near the Borra Caves, is a must-visit for trekking enthusiasts. The waterfall, formed by the River Gosthani, requires a short but scenic hike through lush greenery. The cool breeze, flowing water, and sounds of nature make it an ideal spot to relax. Another popular site is Chaparai Waterfalls, about 13 km from Araku, known for its smooth rock formations that create natural water slides. Many Telugu films have been shot here due to its picturesque setting. Tadimada Waterfalls, also called Ananthagiri Waterfalls, is another beautiful spot where water cascades from a height of 100 feet. Trekking is the best way to reach this waterfall, and while the water is not very clean for swimming, the view is breathtaking.

Araku Valley is about 120 km from Visakhapatnam and can be reached by air, train, or road. The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport, from where travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to Araku. The Araku Valley Railway Station is well connected with Visakhapatnam, offering a scenic train journey through tunnels and hills. The Vistadome train is a popular choice for travelers who want to enjoy panoramic views of the valley. By road, Araku is accessible via National Highway 516E, with regular government and private buses available. For those who prefer driving, the road trip from Visakhapatnam to Araku is scenic, passing through coffee plantations and misty hills.

Chandipur: A beach where the sea disappears

Chandipur is a coastal destination in Odisha, located near Balasore. It is known for its unique beach where the sea retreats up to 5 kilometers during low tide, creating an unusual "hide and seek" phenomenon. This natural wonder makes Chandipur an interesting and offbeat place to visit.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

One of the main attractions here is Chandipur Beach, where visitors can walk on the seabed during low tide. It¡¯s an experience unlike any other, as the sea disappears and then slowly returns. Apart from strolling along the beach, visitors can enjoy a peaceful sunrise or sunset by the shore. For those interested in nature and wildlife, Simlipal National Park is a short journey away. This national park, once a hunting ground for local rulers, is now a protected tiger reserve with dense forests, meadows, waterfalls, and rivers. Another nearby attraction is Nilagiri Hills, home to the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary and the historic Jagannath Temple. Panchalingeswar, located around 45 km from Chandipur, is another must-visit site. This place, nestled within the Nilgiri Hills, is known for a Shiva shrine with five statues of Lord Shiva placed along a perennial stream. It is also a great spot for trekking. If visitors wish to stay overnight, the Odisha Tourism Department provides accommodations at Panthasala.

Reaching Chandipur is easy. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 212 km away. Another option is Kolkata Airport, which is 204 km away. By train, Balasore Railway Station, 16 km from Chandipur, is the closest and is well-connected to major cities. From Balasore, visitors can take a bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to reach the beach. Those traveling by road can take National Highway 16 to Balasore and then a local transport option to Chandipur. Regular buses and taxis are available from Bhubaneswar and Balasore, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway.

Tawang: A himalayan town with culture and adventure

Tawang, situated in Arunachal Pradesh, is a high-altitude town known for its scenic beauty and Buddhist heritage. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and ancient monasteries, it is a perfect destination for those looking for a mix of spirituality and adventure.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The main attraction here is Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India. Located in the Tawang River valley, the monastery stands three stories high and houses 65 residential buildings. Inside, visitors can explore an extensive library with ancient scriptures and admire the colorful murals at the entrance. The monastery offers breathtaking views of forests, the Tawang River, and snow-capped mountains. Shopping enthusiasts can visit the local handicraft centers to see traditional Thangka paintings, weaving, and wood carvings. The market is filled with colorful prayer flags, Buddha statues, and Tibetan souvenirs. Food lovers can enjoy local delicacies like momos and thukpa at the street-side stalls.

For those seeking adventure, Tawang has plenty to offer. A drive through Sela Pass, located at an altitude of 13,500 feet, provides panoramic views of frozen lakes and snow-covered mountains. Sela Lake, often frozen for most of the year, adds to the charm of this journey. The pass is also dotted with several small lakes, making it a scenic stop for travelers.

Reaching Tawang requires a combination of travel methods. The nearest airport is Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, Assam, about 317 km away. From Tezpur, travelers can take a bus or taxi to Tawang. The nearest railway stations are Rangapara North (350 km) and Bhalukpong (298 km). From these stations, visitors need to continue the journey by road. By road, the most common route is via Guwahati, from where buses and taxis regularly travel to Tawang. Another option is traveling to Tezpur by train or flight and then continuing to Tawang by road. The journey from Bomdila to Tawang (180 km) takes nearly 10 hours, and the roads offer stunning views along the way.

Saputara: A hill station with trekking, boating, and tribal heritage

Located in Gujarat¡¯s Sahyadri mountains, Saputara is the state¡¯s only hill station, making it a great getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The place offers cool weather, green landscapes, and a peaceful lake, attracting travelers looking for a break from city life.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Saputara. Trekking to Sunrise Point is a popular option, offering a scenic view of the sun rising over the hills. The trek is easy and takes about an hour, making it suitable for most visitors. Another key attraction is Saputara Lake, where visitors can rent paddle boats or rowboats to enjoy a peaceful ride on the water. Boating fees start at ?35 for pedal boats and ?140 for four-seater boats, with rides available daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. History enthusiasts can visit Pandava Gufa, a cave believed to have been a refuge for the Pandavas during their exile in the Mahabharata. The journey to the cave involves a challenging trek, but the experience is worth the effort. For those interested in local crafts, the Artist Village is a great place to explore Warli paintings and bamboo crafts made by local artisans. Another interesting stop is the Tribal Museum, where visitors can shop for handcrafted jewelry, wooden carvings, and textiles that reflect the region¡¯s cultural heritage. The local markets are also worth exploring, especially during the monsoon season, offering fresh produce, organic honey, and handmade pickles.

To reach Saputara, travelers can choose between road, rail, and air options. By road, Saputara is around 156 km from Surat and 79 km from Nashik. The best route is via the Mumbai-Nashik Highway (NH160) and then the Nashik-Vani-Saputara Road. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are available. By train, Waghai and Bilimora are the nearest railway stations, with onward taxi or bus services to Saputara. By air, Surat Airport is the closest, while Mumbai¡¯s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is another option. From either airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Saputara.

Lonar Lake: A meteor-formed crater with temples and jungle treks

Located in Maharashtra¡¯s Buldhana district, Lonar Lake is a rare meteorite impact crater that dates back thousands of years. Formed by a high-speed meteor weighing around two million tonnes, the crater has a diameter of 1.2 km and a depth of 150 meters. The site attracts geologists, astronomers, and archaeologists due to its unique characteristics. Ancient mythology also associates the lake with Lord Vishnu defeating a demon named Lavansur. Surrounding the lake are several temples built around the 10th century AD.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Visitors to Lonar Lake can explore the Daitya Sudan Temple, which showcases Hemadpanti-style architecture. The temple¡¯s carvings depict stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and various Puranas. Another interesting site is the Motha Maruti Temple, which houses a 9-foot-tall Hanuman idol made of a magnetic rock. For those interested in nature and adventure, a trek through the jungle surrounding Lonar Lake is a must. The 4 km trek follows the lake¡¯s perimeter, passing through abandoned centuries-old temples hidden in the forest. The uneven terrain and small streams along the trail add to the experience, making it an exciting exploration for trekkers.

By road, Lonar is a 4-hour drive from Aurangabad and about 500 km from Mumbai, taking around 10 hours. From Jalna, which is 90 km away, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus. The nearest railway station is in Jalna, with further travel by taxi or bus. The closest airport is in Aurangabad, about 140 km from Lonar, with taxis and buses available for the onward journey.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.