In 2025, the calendar is full of travel opportunities, with several holidays conveniently falling around weekends. If you're already dreaming about your getaways, it's the perfect time to start planning your escapes. Whether you're into beaches, mountains, culture, or food, there's a destination waiting to refresh your mind and soul. Here's a list of the best places to visit during a long weekend in 2025, so you can make the most of those well-earned breaks.
1. Goa – For a Fun Beach Escape
If you're craving sun, sand, and sea, there's no better destination than Goa. With its vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, Portuguese heritage, and mouthwatering seafood, Goa is a complete package for a quick vacation. Plan your long weekend in 2025 around Republic Day (January 26th falls on a Sunday), and extend it with a day off for a perfect beachside holiday.
Things to Do: Relax at Palolem Beach, visit the forts in North Goa, explore local cafés, and enjoy water sports.
2. Udaipur – For a Royal Retreat
Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes,” offers romantic charm and regal grandeur. With beautiful palaces, calm lakes, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality, it's the ideal destination for a peaceful and culturally rich trip.
Long weekend in 2025 tip: March has Holi on a Thursday (13th), so take a day off on Friday and enjoy a colorful 4-day escape in Udaipur.
Things to Do: Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visit the City Palace, and dine at rooftop restaurants with lake views.
3. Rishikesh – For Adventure and Spirituality
Looking to combine thrill with tranquility? Head to Rishikesh for your long weekend in 2025. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh offers river rafting, yoga retreats, and peaceful evenings by the Ganga.
Ideal weekend: Good Friday (April 18th) gives a three-day weekend—just enough for a refreshing mountain escape.
Things to Do: Try white-water rafting, attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, or unwind in a riverside café.
4. Coorg – The Scotland of India
For coffee lovers and nature seekers, Coorg in Karnataka is a lush green paradise. With misty hills, aromatic coffee plantations, and cool weather, it’s one of the best hill stations to visit in South India.
Plan your long weekend in 2025: Combine May 1st (Labour Day, Thursday) with a leave on Friday for a four-day getaway.
Things to Do: Visit Abbey Falls, explore the coffee estates, trek to Tadiandamol Peak, or simply relax in a plantation stay.
5. Darjeeling – Queen of the Hills
If you want to escape the summer heat, head to Darjeeling during one of the longer weekends in mid-year. The toy train, tea gardens, and cool breeze make it an unforgettable retreat.
Long weekend in 2025 idea: Independence Day (August 15th) falls on a Friday—perfect for a three-day Himalayan escape.
Things to Do: Watch the sunrise at Tiger Hill, ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and sample fresh tea straight from the gardens.
6. Pondicherry – For a French-Flavored Getaway
With its blend of Indian and French cultures, charming streets, and calm beaches, Pondicherry is a unique destination perfect for a short escape. A long weekend in 2025 here means a relaxed vibe, delicious food, and beautiful architecture.
Weekend pick: October 2nd (Gandhi Jayanti) falls on a Thursday—combine it with a day off for a perfect 4-day retreat.
Things to Do: Visit Auroville, relax at Paradise Beach, stroll around the French Quarter, and try local creole cuisine.
7. Jaisalmer – Desert Adventure and Culture
Want to do something totally different? Jaisalmer offers camel rides, desert camps, and golden sunsets over endless dunes. It’s a great destination for winter travel, especially during a festive long weekend.
When to go: Diwali in 2025 falls on October 20th (Monday). Use this festive long weekend in 2025 to enjoy the colors of Rajasthan.
Things to Do: Visit Jaisalmer Fort, take a camel safari in the Thar Desert, and enjoy folk music and dance under the stars.
Final Thoughts
2025 is packed with opportunities to explore India like never before. Instead of letting those holidays slip by, turn them into enriching journeys with smart planning. Whether you want to dive into adventure, soak in culture, or just take a break, these destinations offer something for every mood. So, mark your calendar and plan your long weekend in 2025 well in advance—you deserve it.
