places to visit in india for the upcoming 15 august / independence day long weekend

The 15th of August is a very special day in India. It is a national holiday observed and celebrated by everyone and marked with festivities, kite flying and a hoisting of the Indian flag throughout the country. When this day happens to occur on a Friday or Monday, there is additional reason to rejoice as it provides people with a long weekend.

 

A three-day weekend is the great gift that makes it possible for everyone, even busy professionals, to travel to new destinations and see new horizons for a memorable Independence Day along with an affirmation of personal independence. It is the ideal time for many to spread their wings and experience something new.

 

Since India is a country rich in natural beauty and full of luxurious getaways, there is never a dearth of options when it comes to discovering exciting new places and meeting interesting new people. In case you are not sure of what to do and where to go, let’s take a look at some of the best and most enviable destinations in India for an epic long weekend.

 

Thattekad

 

Kerala is perfect in the fall. The soothing backwaters and the lush green virgin forests make it a pleasure to visit at anytime but specially when the summer is winding down. Add to this a beautiful local culture, a welcoming and nurturing people and a next-level culinary tradition at par with the best cuisines in the world, and the decision is very easy. Kerala it is.

 

In Kerala, Thattekad is perhaps the most discerning destination. It is the natural habitat for a wide variety of beautiful birds, which seems apt for the occasion, while an exceptionally luxurious property called Riverside Luxury Tents by Amritara provides the quintessential jungle experience on the banks of the Periyar.

 

Mcleodganj

 

The famous hill station of Mcleodganj is a classic choice for the long weekend of August 15 because of its colonial connection. It was built by the British and is located amidst the splendors of the Kangra Valley on the outskirts of Dharamshala, where one can imbibe the deeply spiritual vibes of monasteries, museums and temples for a welcome change from the city.

 

If you are looking for a good place to stay in Mcleodganj with good food and great views, the new Amritara Surya is ideal. It offers a luxurious getaway and easy access to the main attractions here like the Dalai Lama Temple, the Tibetan Flee Market and the Mall Road while the in-house fine dining restaurant called Wood Petal and their renowned nightclub called Labooze are unique experiences in their own right.

 

Sikkim

 

Perhaps the most exotic and talked about destination in India is Sikkim. If you haven’t been to Sikkim, this long weekend may be just the chance you need to cross it off your bucket list. One of India’s youngest, smallest and most far-flung territories, it has a fascinating history and an amazing heritage that is definitely worth exploring.

 

If you decide to visit Sikkim, the newly opened Luxury Villa Tosca by Amritara is the best place to stay in Sikkim for the ultimate luxury experience in the mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas in its full glory and bask in the hospitality and soulful aura of India’s hidden gem for a memorable Independence Day celebration.

 

 

Coorg

 

Nowhere are the unique flavors of India more distinct than in Coorg, Karnataka. Famous for its coffee, cardamom and black pepper, the distinct aromas and intoxicating bouquets of exotic plants rent the air and waft through the slopes of this beautiful southern hill station in India. With a misty and cloudy climate, it is the perfect place for an invigorating long weekend.

 

If you like golfing, go for Ambatty Greens by Amritara, a perfect getaway in Coorg. Take in a golf game or two, feast at Arabasta, their colorful restaurant and explore the sights at your own pace. If you feel spontaneous, you can opt for their all-inclusive package that is specially designed for an enjoyable experience that hits all the high points.

 

 

Thekkady

 

A beautiful hill station in the interiors of Kerala, Thekkady is the ultimate getaway. This oasis of natural beauty is about 150 Kms from the Cochin International Airport but nicely tucked away in dense Teak forests and backwater rivulets at the edge of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

 

Go on blissful boating tours and play with elephants when you stay at the famous Shalimar Spice Garden by Amritara in Thekkady. The elegant cottages set amongst orchards and spice gardens gives you a truly authentic feel for the soul of Kerala.

 

With so much to see and do, don’t let your Independence Day go to waste. Use your independence to travel and experience the many wonders of our rich and diverse land that loves to welcome visitors into its fold. Reach out to faraway worlds and return rejuvenated, refreshed and a little bit wiser.