The best outdoor adventures to enjoy during a long weekend


Beach lovers looking for a quiet place can opt for Gokarna in Karnataka. Its tropical beaches, rugged cliffs and tranquil atmosphere make it a lovely destination.

Khajjiar, Gokarna and Goa are the top destinations that offer a wide variety of adventures; there are several more to suit different preferences.

As Independence Day falls on a Thursday and Raksha Bandhan on the following Monday (August 19, 2024), Indian travelers can plan a long weekend getaway. Combine these holidays with August 16 and you have five full days, perfect for a vacation.

This year, the rainy season is turning out to be quite busy for the Indian travel and tourism industry. Reports suggest that there has been an increase of over 250% in searches for the upcoming long weekend compared to the same period last year. This trend means that Indian travellers are eager to make the most of the upcoming long weekend and go on a vacation to relax and rejuvenate.

It’s the perfect time to escape the mundane routines and relax in the lap of nature. Whether you love serene mountains, tropical beaches, pristine river banks or lush forests, here’s a curated list of places you can explore by Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip:

  1. India's Mini Switzerland: KhajjiarIs Switzerland on your travel bucket list but you are limited by time and budget? Then Khajjiar in India will surely be your dream come true! One of the lesser-known destinations in Himachal Pradesh, it is known as the Mini Switzerland of India for its breathtaking views, lush grasslands, and picturesque landscapes. The alluring Khajjiar Lake is a must-visit tourist attraction. Take a long walk while enjoying the sunset with the deodar trees in the background or arrange a picnic at the lake. Adventurous souls can also indulge in activities like horse riding and trekking to the nearby Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of nature’s beauty.
  2. GokarnaBeach lovers looking for a peaceful place can opt for Gokarna in Karnataka. Its tropical beaches, rugged cliffs, and tranquil ambiance make it a delightful destination. Travelers can relax at Om Beach and Kudle Beach and enjoy the gentle breeze with a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea. You can have a picnic, explore local cuisine, or indulge in yoga and meditation sessions on the beach. When in Gokarna, you must visit the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple. This will be your chance to take a dip in the sacred waters of the temple and rekindle your spiritual soul. The destination also offers a wide range of water sports on the beaches, including surfing, rafting, banana boat rides, etc., for adventure lovers.
  3. Goa, the city that never sleepsWhile opting for water sports is an adventure, spending the night at nightclubs gives an adrenaline rush to others. And then there is Goa, which offers the best of both worlds. It is the city that never sleeps and one you can never get bored of. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage make it the best destination for the long weekend. Be it quiet moments on the beach, parties through the night, or water sports like scuba diving, parasailing, paragliding, jet skiing, flyboarding, rafting, snorkeling, etc., this place offers it all. This upcoming long weekend in August 2024 presents an excellent opportunity for Indian travelers to take a vacation. While some wish to relax with picturesque views and peaceful surroundings, others want to take up exciting and adventurous activities. Khajjiar, Gokarna, and Goa are the top destinations that offer a wide range of adventures; several others cater to diverse preferences.
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