7 Offbeat places to visit during the long weekend

With another long weekend just around the corner, you must already be excited and ready to let your horses loose to explore new places, cultures and foods of festivities. *High five* But are you confused about where to go? Well, well, well, here we are with a bag full of suggestions and a heart full of sparkling joy. Read on for a few suggestions for places to visit during the long weekends.

Top 7 Places To Visit During Long Weekends -

For Diwali Long Weekend Plan (22nd October, 2022 - 26th October, 2022)

1. Udaipur - Chase The Sunset In The City Of Lakes

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Udaipur is made up of the opulence and magnificence intricately woven into the fabric of history and culture. Popularly known as 'White City of India', it pleasantly surprises you with the white-coloured aesthetics. From the royal palaces to the tiniest of shops, white is the prominent colour that stands out. Wide and charming Aravalli mountain range surrounds the city. It is famous as the 'Venice of the East' because of the numerous exquisite lakes that are spread across the city. A trip to Udaipur without a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola is a sin. With the backdrop of Aravalli mountains and Jagmandir palace (built on an island on Lake Pichola) the sunset at Pichola Lake is spellbinding, to say the least. Surprisingly, with the colourful festivities and lively culture, Udaipur is one of the top places to visit during long weekends.

2. Kufri - A Hamlet Of Peace

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Sometimes the best experience is not at the locations that are popular amongst tourists. It is at those locations that are yet obscure from the public eye. One such offbeat location is a small hamlet situated in Himachal Pradesh at a height of around 2,510 meters above sea level. From some of the most beautiful and thrilling treks like Shimla, Manali, Mahasu Peak, Fagu, Khuwalia Peak, etc to shopping Saffron, Tibetan carpets and Pashmina shawls, Kufri is a great place for a long weekend trip. During winters the temperature drops as low as -10°C but that's when the fun begins. You can spot friendly yaks only in such extreme weather conditions. Also, try out Skiing, Tobogganing, Heli Skiing, Ice Skating and Snow camping. Undoubtedly, they are one of the best experiences that you must have and that too so close to home.

3. Jaisalmer - Let The Gold Slip Away From Your Fist

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The bud of royalty and jubilant culture has grown to be a full-fledged tree in this desert town of Rajasthan. Famously known as the 'Golden City of India' because of the desert and the architecture of the town, Jaisalmer is renowned across the world. Among the few forts across the world which are still inhabited by people, Jaisalmer Fort is one of them and the only fort in India. It is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a population of around 5000 people living inside it. You can experience the thrill and rush of adrenaline of dune bashing in Jaisalmer (no need to fly to Dubai just for this experience:P). Furthermore, there is a touch of rural India and the traditional customs that will be found in each and every corner of Jaisalmer. Since it is located in the desert region, get a feel of the lifestyle there.

4. Lonavala - Sweet Haven For Curious Hearts And Adventurous Minds

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Popularly known as the 'Jewel of Sahyadri' and 'City of Caves', Lonavala is well connected and near to major cities like Mumbai and Pune. From amazing tourist attractions like Tiger’s Leap (a vantage point with one of the best views), Bhaja Caves (one of the oldest caves in India), Karla Caves (it is representative of Hinayana Buddhism), Duke’s Nose (trek to this spot for the best views), Pawna Lake (perfect for some old school picnic) and Lohagad Fort (this fort is strategically located and has awe-inspiring architecture) to electrifying adventure activities like waterfall rappelling, zip lining, camping, etc, Lonavala indeed appeals to all your interests whether it is history or adrenaline-inducing activities or a leisurely picnic. Doesn't it sound like fun?

5. Munnar - Experience The Exotic Terrains And Weather

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The wide expanse of greenery, mist and fog makes Munnar nothing less than a heaven on Earth. That's exactly why it is also known as 'Kashmir of South India'. One of the most-loved hill stations in India, it is located in Kerala. The temperature is moderate throughout the year and the clouds feel like delicious cotton candy. If not for the utterly irresistible views then go for the clouds (because badal important hai XD). There are a plethora of beautiful places to visit in Munnar. Attukad Waterfalls, Echo Point, Pothamedu viewpoint, Tata tea museum, Eravikulam National Park, and so many more. Considering Munnar is the hub of production of tea, you can learn about the process of how tea leaves are cultivated. Basically, taste the best tea and bring some back home from your trip.

6. Shangarh - A Detour To Mindfulness

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Away from the cacophonous city life and the holiday crowd, Shangarh is an offbeat vacation spot. It is situated in the Sainj Valley which is a part of the Great Himalayan National Park (A UNESCO site) in the Kullu region. It is exhilarating yet calming to walk through the meadows and dense forests. Moreover, it is said that Pandavas once walked the meadows of Shangarh during their exile period. If you talk to the locals they will let you in on some cool and interesting stories about it. Visit Barshangarh Waterfalls, Raila Fort and Raila Waterfall, Devta Ground and Shangchul Mahadev Mandir. You will be amazed by how peaceful, quiet and slow-paced life at Shangarh is. It gives you a chance to experience the fresh and pure air of the mountains and valleys. It is one of the best places to visit during long weekends.

7. Mukteshwar - Nature's Treasure

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Another gem, an offbeat destination for you to explore on your long weekend trip is Mukteshwar. This town of Uttarakhand is situated at the height of 2171 meters above sea level with a magical and enthralling view of the great Himalayan mountain ranges. You can see them covered in snow during winter. For nature and trek lovers it is no less than a paradise as one can indulge in some beautiful and breathtaking treks like Peora to Almora trail, Peora to Mukteshwar trail and Binsar to Artola trail etc. You will get the chance to try finger-licking delicious Kumaoni food like Bhatt Ki Churkani, Phanu, aloo ke gutke, Kaufli, Bal Mithai, etc. Lastly, from perfect pictures for Instagram to adventurous activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and paragliding, you can expect an enjoyable experience at Mukteshwar.