The auspicious festival of Raksha Bandhan is on August 19, 2024 (Monday). Falling a few days after Independence Day (Thursday), this gives us an opportunity for a long weekend (Thursday to Monday). To make the most of it, you can plan a getaway with family and friends to nearby places from your city. Raksha Bandhan is a public holiday mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh. Let’s explore some places near these states that are easy to access for a weekend getaway.
1. Uttar Pradesh:
Varanasi:
Varanasi, a city about 8 hours away from Uttar Pradesh is known as the spiritual capital of India. This is the perfect destination for a getaway for people with a high belief in spirituality.
The city is famous for its handicrafts, textiles, metal, clay and woodwork, leaf and fibre crafts and ornaments. The serene Vindhan Waterfalls, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, soulful evening arti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ramnagar Fort are among the many must-visit places in Varanasi.
Agra:
This destination is about 5 hours away from Uttar Pradesh and is known majorly for its historical significance. The Taj Mahal, one of the 7 wonders of the world, is the major tourist attraction of Agra. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, and Buland Darwaza are some other monuments which tourists love to visit.
Beyond its rich historical heritage, Agra is also known for its delectable local cuisine. Visitors can savour the unique flavours of dal moth, a spicy lentil snack, and petha, a sweet made from ash gourd, which are among the city's famous delicacies.
2. Gujarat
Saputara:
This hill station in Gujarat is present in the Western Ghats. It’s a 9-hour drive from Gujarat and offers a stunning scenic view. Visitors can sit and relax near the Saputara Lake or spend quality time while enjoying boating with their loved ones.
There’s an Artist Village in Saputara which gives the local tribes an opportunity to showcase their art. This hill station also allows the visitors an adrenaline rush by providing adventure activities such as paragliding.
Udaipur:
Approximately 7 hours away from Gujarat lies the city of Lakes, Udaipur, Rajasthan. Tourists love to enjoy the sights of the scenic lakes, palaces and mountains by which Udaipur is surrounded.
Shopping enthusiasts can visit Hathi Poll Bazaar which is the most famous market of Udaipur. Udaipur City Palace, situated on the banks of Lake Pichola offers a breathtaking view. It's known for its intricate carvings, murals and ornate pillars. A light and sound show during the evening is the major attraction of the palace.
3. Rajasthan
Mount Abu:
Mount Abu, the highest peak in the Aravalli range, is nestled amidst lush, forested hills. This picturesque hill station offers a cool retreat with its verdant landscapes and serene environment, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquillity.
This summer capital of Rajasthan is about 8 hours away from Rajasthan. Trevors Tank, an ecological sanctuary is a great place to explore for bird lovers. Another famous site that people like visiting is Brahma Kumaris Ashram where people can participate in morning and evening meditation and attend lectures and workshops.
Jodhpur:
This second largest city of Rajasthan is known as the blue city. Mehrangarh Fort, a 400 feet tall fort is a famous tourist attraction of Jodhpur. Eagles and wild kites are fed at the top of the fort every day at 3:30 PM as per the ancestral traditions. The fort also provides zip-line adventure activities for its visitors.
Jaswant Thada, Ghanta Ghar, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Chamunda Mata Temple, Machiya Safari Park, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park are some other destinations that can be visited during your trip to Jodhpur.
4. Haryana
Kasauli:
Kasauli is a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh, which is less crowded compared to others, making it an ideal destination for a long weekend getaway. In addition, it's just a 5.5-hour drive from Haryana, making it easily accessible for a short trip.
Nature enthusiasts often enjoy exploring the Gilbert Trail, which offers a captivating hiking experience with mountains on one side and a picturesque valley on the other. Kasauli also has several popular attractions, including Sunset Point, Christ Church, Mall Road, Timber Trail, and the Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, which offer a range of experiences, from gorgeous views to cultural landmarks, making Kasuali a delightful destination for visitors.
Parwanoo:
Parwanoo, located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh is the perfect weekend getaway destination if you’re planning to relax amidst nature.
The biggest wholesale market of Himachal offers beautiful travel destinations to its tourists. Mansa Devi Temple which provides a beautiful view from the top, Hatu Peak with its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, Pinjore Gardens, the beautiful Mughal Gardens and Timber Trail which also has a scenic cable car ride are amongst the famous destinations of Parwanoo.
5. Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho:
Khajuraho is a group of Jain and Hindu temples about 347 kilometres away from Madhya Pradesh. It’s famous for its stunning temples with intricate erotic sculptures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a major cultural attraction. Dulhadeva Temple, Lakshman Temple, Matangeshwar Temple, Adinath Temple, Javari Temple, and Kandariya Mahadev Temple are some of the many temples in Khajuraho.
A light and sound show is organised during the evenings in the temples which is narrated by veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan. For ardent followers of spirituality and religion, this place would be a heaven on earth.
Pachmarhi:
The only hill station of Madhya Pradesh is just 3 hours away and perfect for a weekend getaway. Pachmarhi is also known as Satpura ki Rani and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It has many waterfalls but the Beefall is the most famous of all since it provides drinking water to all.
Jatashankar Temple, Priyadarshini Point, Dhoopgarh, Satpura National Park etc. are a few places which attract tourists to Pachmarhi.