August’s Long Weekends: Explore Stunning Destinations Near Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru

August 2024 is shaping up to be a dream month for travellers, with two major long weekends offering the perfect opportunity to escape the city and explore new destinations. Thanks to holidays like Independence Day, Raksha Bandhan, and Janmashthami, you can enjoy up to five consecutive days off by strategically planning your leave. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of these long weekends by visiting some incredible destinations from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

Long Weekend Dates:

• August 15 to 19:
  • August 15 (Thursday): Independence Day and Parsi New Year
  • August 16 (Friday): Take a leave
  • August 17 (Saturday): Weekend
  • August 18 (Sunday): Weekend
  • August 19 (Monday): Raksha Bandhan
• August 24 to 26:
  • August 24 (Saturday): Weekend
  • August 25 (Sunday): Weekend
  • August 26 (Monday): Janmashthami

You can extend this break by taking a leave on August 27 (Tuesday) or August 23 (Friday).

From Delhi:

Jaisalmer (Approximately 850 km): Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is a treasure trove of stunning sandstone architecture. With five days at your disposal, you can fully explore this historic city. Key attractions include the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and intricate havelis like Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli. August marks the beginning of cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit.

Udaipur (Approximately 660 km): Udaipur, the City of Lakes, offers a romantic escape with its picturesque palaces and serene lakes. The City Palace and Lake Pichola are must-see attractions, and August’s monsoon rains add to the charm of the city’s gardens and water bodies. It’s the perfect time to enjoy Udaipur’s cooler climate and scenic beauty.

From Mumbai:

Goa (Approximately 450 km): Goa is a perennial favourite, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. August’s monsoon season brings lush greenery and fewer tourists, offering a more tranquil experience. Explore beaches like Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem, and immerse yourself in Goa’s rich Portuguese heritage.

Igatpuri (Approximately 120 km): Nestled in the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is a nature lover’s paradise. The monsoon transforms this region into a lush green haven, with mist-covered mountains and cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss the Vihigaon Waterfall and the scenic views from Kalsubai Peak. August’s cool weather and vibrant landscapes make Igatpuri an ideal getaway.

From Bengaluru:

Hampi (Approximately 340 km): Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its ancient ruins and temples set against a dramatic landscape of boulders. August’s monsoon enhances the natural beauty of the area, making it a great time to explore attractions like the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and the Tungabhadra River.

Mysuru (Approximately 150 km): Mysuru, the City of Palaces, exudes regal charm with its grand architecture and cultural heritage. Visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, and enjoy the lush greenery brought by the monsoon in places like Brindavan Gardens and Chamundi Hill. August also marks the start of preparations for the famous Dussehra festival, adding a festive atmosphere to your visit.

With these amazing destinations at your fingertips, August 2024 promises to be a month full of memorable travel experiences.