5 Diwali weekend getaways you shouldn’t miss

Long weekends are like an oasis in the midst of the drudgery of life—they offer an opportunity to escape the everyday routine and indulge ourselves. With the Diwali long weekend being the last one of the year (sadly), we’ve rounded up the best getaways that you should be booking right now. From a secluded vacation in the middle of a colonial-era tea estate, to a stay at the country’s first Raffles hotel, take your pick.

From Mumbai

For a quick spa-cation

Viveda The Wellness Village, Nashik

Been busy, stressed, and overwhelmed with work? Then a rejuvenating break at Viveda, the Wellness Village in Nashik is the perfect antidote. The luxurious resort located in the heart of Trimbakeshwar offers a blend of Ayurveda and naturopathy through its many holistic therapies and massages that will leave you refreshed. Even the menu follows the same tenets of healthy living—the dishes are prepared sattvic-style and are all vegetarian or vegan.

From Delhi-NCR

For a royal experience

Raffles, Udaipur

The city of lakes is home to India’s first Raffles hotel, which is located on a private 21-acre island in the middle of the Udai Sagar Lake. The property marries English, Islamic, and Rajasthani influences in its palatial architecture—it is surrounded by European-style manicured gardens and dotted with fountains. With picturesque views of the rolling hills and the shimmering lake, you’re guaranteed ample peace and solitude. Inside, scour through the extensive book collection at the floor-to-ceiling library in the Writers Bar. And when you’re done reading, the lavish suites are perfect for a nap.

From Bengaluru

For a vacation amid nature

The Serai Bandipur, Mysuru

Looking for a getaway where you’re enveloped by lush greenery? Then pack your bags and go on a road trip to The Serai in Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Surrounded by vast forests as far as the eyes can see, the property has 24 luxe residences with attached sit-outs that are perfect for soaking in the views—if you look hard, you might just spot sloth bears, Indian guar, and the elusive black panther that roam the reserve.

From Chennai

For a holiday with a view

Radisson Resort Pondicherry Bay, Pondicherry

Discover Pondicherry beyond its French side with Radisson’s plush outpost in the region. The resort is flanked by a lagoon, the popular Paradise Beach on two sides, with a coastal village serving as the backdrop, and its chalets and villas offer enviable views of the sea. Its design takes inspiration from the Franco-Tamil local architecture and makes use of materials like the classic Chettinad Athugudi floor tiles in the roomy suites. The food at the on-site restaurants, too, marries French and Tamil influences.

From Kolkata

For a serene mountain getaway

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling

Started by a Scottish tea company in 1859, Glenburn Tea Estate is tucked into a hill above the banks of river Rangeet and comes with sweeping views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range. Tea lovers will be right at home here—the property organizes an exciting tea trail that includes walking through tea fields, a tour of the factory, and ends with a tasting session. If you’re looking for a more relaxing time, then unwind in the verandah or in the cozy living area that comes with a fireplace and a well-stocked library. And if you’d rather spend some time in your room (we don’t blame you!), all the mountain-facing suites have free-standing bathtubs—add a book in hand and a steaming cup of tea to the mix and your evening is sorted.

Lead image: Raffles Udaipur/Instagram