Isn’t the monsoons have been urging you to go out and enjoy the nature at its best? For Delhiites, there’s no other excuse needed for a quick break when monsoon hits the vacation doors. And what’s best than making the most of your Independence Day Long Weekend Holidays. This year, the Independence Day falls on Tuesday, with 12th and 13th August being Saturday and Sunday, while Monday (14th August) gives the liberty to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami- making it 4 days long weekend to get your fill of the monsoons. While most of the places in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand might be experiencing heavy rains and unexpected landslides, still we managed to sort out some compelling destinations to plan your extended Independence Day Long Weekend.
Agra
Situated 197 km from the national capital, driving down to Agra following the construction of the Delhi-Agra expressway has become a cakewalk. Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Agra is not just the Taj Mahal. Agra Fort, where Mughal emperor Shah Jahan spent his last days in captivity, Fatehpur Sikri, the doomed capital of Akbar and Itmad-ud-Daula’s tomb also known as the Baby Taj should be on every tourist’s itinerary.
Orchha + Gwalior or Khajuraho
You can start your day with Gwalior by visiting Gwalior Fort one of the largest and majestic forts in India along with the Saas- Bahu Temples and Teli ka Mandir – a 300 meter high temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Spend the next day at Orchha exploring the architectural excellence of the Bundela Rulers of 16th-17th century. Monsoons are the right time to visit Orchha – the city that is home to countless monuments, temples, forts and cenotaphs. You’ll need a full day to see Khajuraho, to marvel at the unique architecture of the numerous temples of the ‘Garden of Dates’ as it was known then. Go here on a short trip from Delhi for a unique Long Weekend experience.
Neemrana
When life is moving too fast and none of your far-away vacation plans are being materialized, Neemrana Fort Palace stands out among the best places around Delhi to visit in 15th August’s Long Weekend. This heritage hotel has its history tracing back to the 16th century, but the modern structure is a luxurious property located on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway.
Udaipur
Flaunting vibrant ethnicity of Rajasthan, grandeur of yesteryear palaces, luxury of the five-star resorts, and shimmers of lakes, Udaipur is among preferred tourist places near Delhi in August. The Lake City of India is also known as the Venice of the East. Though the rainfall in Udaipur is not too heavy, it provides a relief from scorching heat. Also, you get to enjoy less-crowded tourist places in Udaipur in this month.
Jodhpur + Jaisalmer
The sprawling desert land of Jaisalmer covers itself up in shades of green during the monsoons while Jodhpur, the blue city of Rajasthan accentuates its colors in the rains. These rain washed cities look picturesque dotted with ancient forts like Mehrangarh Fort or Jaisalmer Fort; Palaces like Patwon ki Haveli and Umaid Bhavan Palace are just some of the many culturally and historically significant sites to see. If architectural beauty, history and culture are your calling then this makes for a perfect short trip from Delhi for the long weekend.
Mandawa
The ancient town of Dausa is the perfect weekend getaway destination from Delhi, because of a number of archaeological attractions. Dotted with a number of mansions and temples Dausa is a cultural delight. Placed on National Highway No. 11, 54 km eastward of Jaipur, it was one of erstwhile kingdoms of Kachhawah rulers of Dhundhar. This is just the right kind of a destination to get away from the hustle-bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing vacation.
Shimla
If you are planning a trip to any of the mountainous tourist places near Delhi in August, Shimla – the capital city of Himachal Pradesh is a good choice. The downpour paints the already beautiful vista green with dark clouds swaying and kissing the soaring Himalayan peaks. During this time of the year, the crowd is not much either.
Fagu
Just one hour away from Shimla, Fagu is a little piece of paradise among scenic offbeat places to visit from Delhi in August. This charming little hill town is a little slice of heaven for Delhi folks. Be it the weather or bounty of nature and greenery, Fagu is where the famous Hindustan Tibet Road begins, and it goes right up to Tibet border in Kinnaur territory. Drive down to Fagu on the upcoming long weekend to take a break from the scorching summer sun. This place is perfect for relaxed walks, treks and nothingness.
Dalhousie + Khajjiar
This one is one of the most beautiful short trips from Delhi that you can undertake. Lush greenery, misty mountains and clouds descending on the hills, if this is what you want for your weekend then head straight to Dalhousie and Khajjiar for a weekend among the mountains. The Pir Pinjal mountain range of Dalhousie is as overwhelmingly gorgeous as that of the vast meadows of Khajjiar. Uninterrupted breeze with drizzling rains and the scenic view makes for quite the picturesque setting.
Dharamshala
The Land of Lamas, Dharamshala reflects Tibetan culture in its truest form. It is home to great Dalai Lama and thus the perfect place for solace and spiritual seekers. Setting aside the Tibetan ethnicity, a trip to Dharamshala is about trekking; the famous Triund trek and camp is a travel goal for many youngsters. Dharamshala in this month gets bestowed with average rainfall. This further turns the mountains greener, and the ambiance reviving.
Shoghi
Located at an altitude above 5,700 feet, Shoghi is a small hamlet at a distance of 13 kilometers from the Ambala-Shimla national highway. The hill station is surrounded by oak and rhododendron trees. The lush green valley’s around Shoghi offer much-needed seclusion and tranquility to tourists. One of the major attractions in Shoghi is a village resort known as Park Woods. The town Shoghi is also famous for fruit products, locally made pickles, juices, syrups and jellies. Shoghi is also an ideal place for trekking, camping and bird watching.
Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal or ‘lake of nine corners’ is a small hill station in Nainital district in Uttarakhand. This place is a ‘Para-glider’s Paradise’ and provides ample scope for rowing, paddling and yachting. This beautiful hill station is surrounded by green forests and the serene lake amidst the lush green fields that are a feast for the eyes. This enchanting valley offers an opportunity of angling and bird watching. The lake is fed by an underground perennial spring.
Dhanachuli
There’s a fair chance you haven’t earlier heard of Dhanachuli before! It is one of the prettiest offbeat places to see near Delhi in August. Embellished with red apple orchids, Dhanachuli is where you can inhale good vibes and exhale all the stress. Dhanachuli in August experiences monsoon season, which means a soulful green mountainscape with peaks being kissed away by swaying lazy clouds.
