The much anticipated Independence day August long weekend of 2025 is just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to plan a quick getaway, one where you finally get a chance to stop, smell the petrichor, and romance the monsoon season.
While the monsoon could dampen spirits sometimes when it comes to trips and vacations, India has a range of exceptional monsoon spots that actually radiate beauty and cheer when it rains! Hill stations in particular, bring about a mystical gloomy aura that no other vacation can beat. The best part is that they are just a quick Thursday evening drive away.
If you are looking to make a trip out of the upcoming long weekend, here are 10 of the best getaway spots in India to consider.
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Mussoorie

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Located around 290 km north of New Delhi, and less than 40 km from Dehradun in Uttarakhand is Mussoorie – a paradise of a hill station. Boasting stunning views of the snowcapped Himalayas in the distance, scenic landscapes, vantage points, and the most pleasant climate, Mussoorie exudes sheer magic in August. Atop the hills and amidst the picturesque valleys, you will find yourself in the thick of mist most of the time, making your experience all the more magical. A few other must-visit attractions in Mussoorie are Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Mall Road, and Company Gardens. Thoughtfully curated India tour packages often include a visit to this quaint little destination.
Rishikesh

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If you are looking for more of a spiritual or reflective break from the mundane, then Rishikesh is the perfect place for you to spend your Independence Day August long weekend 2025. Located around 250 km from New Delhi, Rishikesh is a divine destination in Uttarakhand, brimming with an undeniably contagious positive energy. With the majestic Ganges flowing in full swing in the monsoon season and pilgrims embracing their spiritual side to the fullest, Rishikesh exudes peace and serenity. In addition to temple visits, you can also indulge in other reflective activities like Ashram yoga sessions, cave meditation, Ganga Aarti, and nature walks.
Book your accommodation at one of the best hotels in New Delhi and travel over the weekend to Rishikesh for a fun weekend getaway.
Also Read: Independence Day 2025 Bucket list: Must-Visit Spots to Explore India’s Colonial Heritage
Ajanta and Ellora Caves

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Located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves are perfect for an Independence Day long weekend trip from Mumbai. Blending historic significance with awe-inspiring artistic detail, the caves are eye-openers for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. While the Ajanta caves, located in the Sahyadri ranges of the Western Ghats house beautiful paintings made from herbal colours depicting instances from Buddhism and the Jataka, the Ellora Caves contain intricate carvings, sculptures, and monuments dedicated to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The Kailash Cave Temple – one of the largest monolithic structures in the world, is another nearby attraction.
Karjat

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Karjat is another stunning hill station less than 70 km from Mumbai. Famous for its lush green landscapes, promising trekking trails, and the Kondana Caves – a network of 16 man-made caverns, Karjat is one of the best places to visit in August. The monsoon season transforms the already alluring views into something of a gloomy portrait; the treks are glorified by the falling raindrops and the views are graced by the dramatic grey clouds. Among some other attractions in Karjat are Ulhas Valley, Morbe Dam, and Bhor Ghat. With several sightseeing and adventure options to offer, Karjat is easily an ideal destination for a 3 day trip with family.
To get there in time for the long weekend, book Kochi to Mumbai flights right away.
Alibag

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Alibag, fondly called “mini Goa” is an elegant coastal town located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Tucked 96 km away from Mumbai, the place exudes tropical charm with stunning coconut groves, beaches, and historic fort remnants. With an array of relaxing activities to do like slow sightseeing, walking along the beaches, and sunset watching, along with adventure water sports, Alibag presents the perfect fun-filled destination for a quick getaway. Many Maharashtra tour packages also include an Alibag visit for the same reason. A few must-visit attractions in Alibag are Kolaba Fort, Kihim Beach, and Chaul. Book your stay at one of the best hotels in Mumbai and take a road trip to Alibag to spend your August long weekend 2025 away in peace.
Manali

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Manali is the epitome of a snowy utopia. Located around 500 km from New Delhi, a journey to this apple country hill station in Himachal Pradesh is a scenic adventure in itself with winding hilly roads, dramatic weather shifts, and landscapes. Featuring breathtaking views of the snowcapped mountains, lush valleys, misty waterfalls, and charming quaint villages, Manali offers a treat for the eyes and for your soul. The apple orchards in full bloom in August will add to the unforgettable experience. A few other must-visit attractions in Manali include the Hadimba temple – featuring unique pagoda-style architecture, Kasol and Tosh valleys, and Rohtang Pass. Picking scenic Manali tour packages in time for Independence Day 2025 will let you enjoy one of the best long weekend trips in August.
Also Read: Independence Day Long Weekend: Mark Your Calendars for 3 Days of Freedom! Rest or Travel
Velas

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Velas is a wonderful hidden gem located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, around 191 km from Mumbai. Unlike other destinations, Velas offers a unique experience with beaches, temples, rich Konkani food, bird watching opportunities, and special sightings of the famous Olive Ridley turtles. The Velas Turtle Festival, where these magnificent creatures come together to lay eggs and celebrate the emergence of new born turtles, is a spectacular event that hundreds of visitors flock to witness. In addition to the beaches, a few other attractions like the holy town of Harihara and the Bankot Fort are worth visiting during August. If you are up for a different eco-tourism experience this season, then Velas is the perfect place to spend your August long weekend 2025.
Agra

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Contrary to popular belief, Agra is more than just a Taj Mahal day tour. Located around 230 km from New Delhi, Agra offers a range of serene monsoon experiences, the highlight of which is of course the Taj Mahal. As opposed to the bright and sunny pictures of the wonder, during August, you get to see the marble-clad monument against the backdrop of dramatic grey clouds, that too with fewer crowds. In addition to the Taj Mahal, there are a few other attractions that you can take your time to tour over the long weekend, such as the Agra Fort, the Mehtab Bagh, and the banks of the river Yamuna. Consider visiting the Taj Mahal during sunrise, proceed to explore the other attractions and end your day with a walk along the Yamuna river.
Fly to New Delhi from Mumbai and take a road trip to Agra from there. For the best rates book Mumbai to New Delhi flights right away.
Kolhapur

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Kolhapur is one of the most important historical districts in Maharashtra. Located 381 km from Mumbai, the city sitting on the banks of the river Panchaganga, is most known for being a pilgrimage destination because of its many temples. Its ancient Mahalakshmi temple, built circa 700 AD, is one of its prominent attractions. A few other must-visit places in Kolhapur are the New Palace Museum which features artifacts belonging to the royal families, the Rankala Lake, the Bhavani Mandap – a historical gem, and Jotiba Hill. While you are in Kolhapur for August’s long weekend 2025, don’t forget to visit the markets and purchase a pair of the famous authentic Kolhapuri chappals as well.
Also Read: Skip the City to Try these August Long Weekend Stays Near Mumbai & Pune
Kasauli

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Last on our list of August long weekend travel ideas is Kasauli – a small town in Himachal Pradesh. Located around 288 km from New Delhi, the place screams tranquility and peace. Being a less frequented hill station, it offers a chance for you to bask in the snow-capped mountain views without the bustle of tourist crowds. The monsoons further make a case for a refreshing getaway as you get to wake up to misty mornings, crisp evenings, and cozy nights each giving new meaning to the word peace. Some of the best things to do while you’re here are taking quiet walks by Lover’s Lane, visiting some of the churches, shopping for souvenirs in the markets, and taking tours of Kasauli’s many breweries.
Wrapping Up: August Long Weekend 2025 Trip Ideas
From Mussoorie in the north to Kolhapur in the south, India houses some of the most spectacular destinations, perfect for a quick getaway in the monsoon season. With the upcoming Independence Day August long weekend 2025, now is the time for you to take that much needed break and consider going on a staycation. Choose between snow-capped mountain views, historic monuments, and peaceful ambient landscapes to narrow down your Independence Day travel ideas; use this guide for a head start.
If you are looking for similar getaways outside of India, be sure to apply for your visa with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries to avoid hassles.
Quick Summary – August Long Weekend 2025 Travel Ideas
With the much-anticipated Independence Day August long weekend 2025 just around the corner, now is the best time to plan a quick getaway. It is time to take a break from your mundane life to stop and smell the rain, romance the monsoons, and come back feeling refreshed. The top 10 best places for a quick long weekend getaway in India are Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Karjat, Alibag, Manali, Velas, Agra, Kolhapur, and Kasauli. While some of these places are a quick drive from New Delhi, some are just a few hours from Mumbai. Either way, there is no denying that each of these places present the perfect opportunity for you to enjoy a relaxing few days off.
FAQs
Where is the best place to travel in August 2025?
Some of the best places to travel in August 2025 are Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Aurangabad, Karjat, Alibag, Manali, Velas, Agra, Kolhapur, and Kasauli. Some of these destinations are a few km from New Delhi, while others are a few hours away from Mumbai.
How to plan long weekends in 2025?
The best way to spend the upcoming August long weekend 2025 is to go on a short staycation or road trip to nearby popular destinations. It will allow you to experience a refreshing change from your mundane routine, and give you an opportunity to explore other cultures and scenery. Consider visiting places like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Manali, Agra, and Kasauli in the north, and Aurangabad, Alibag, Karjat, Velas, and Kolhapur in the south.
What is the long leave in August 2025?
The long leave in August 2025 is the Independence Day long weekend, starting from the 15th Friday to the 17th Sunday.
Where is good to go for a long weekend in August?
A few exceptional destinations to go for a long weekend in August are Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Aurangabad, Karjat, Alibag, Manali, Velas, Agra, Kolhapur, and Kasauli.
Where to go on a weekend trip from Delhi?
Some stunning destinations perfect to go on a weekend trip from Delhi are Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Manali, Agra, and Kasauli.
Where is nice to go for 3 days?
There are many places in India that are ideal to go on a 3-day quick trip. Some of these places are Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Aurangabad, Karjat, Alibag, Manali, Velas, Agra, Kolhapur, and Kasauli.
Where can I visit Delhi within 500 kms?
A few destinations within 500 kms from Delhi are Agra, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Manali, Shimla, Jim Corbett National Park, and Haridwar.
Which hill station is nearest to Delhi?
The nearest hill station to Delhi is Mussoorie, located around 290 km north. It is often a popular choice for a weekend getaway.
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