From beach retreats in Karnataka to wildlife escapes in Madhya Pradesh, HELLO! India's long weekend getaways to bookmark

A long weekend is the perfect excuse to step away from the everyday and make time for a change of scenery. With the festive season just around the corner, the weeks ahead are set to bring their usual whirlwind of celebrations, gatherings and endless plans. Before the hustle and bustle fully sets in, this long weekend presents the perfect opportunity to step away, slow down and make time for a much-needed reset. From forest-fringed retreats and Himalayan hideaways to heritage stays and nature-led escapes, HELLO! India picks the luxurious getaways that offer the ideal pause before the festive season takes over. Whether you are looking for a beachside escape, a wildlife-filled adventure, a vineyard retreat or simply a change of scene closer to home, these stays located comfortably from the country's major metro cities, offer plenty of reasons to pack a bag and head out for a short break.

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1. The Oberoi Sukhvilas, New Chandigarh

Set against the foothills of the Himalayas and surrounded by the protected Siswan Forest, The Oberoi Sukhvilas, New Chandigarh is an idyllic retreat where luxury meets the tranquillity of nature. Recognised by TIME Magazine as one of the World’s Greatest Places, the resort offers spacious villas, luxury tents and premier rooms, many designed to offer privacy and uninterrupted forest views. Food takes centre stage across its restaurants. At Anant Mahal, international and Indian flavours are complemented by local, seasonal produce, herbs and spices, while Kaanan, the speciality Indian restaurant, celebrates traditional Punjabi cuisine. Perched on high ground overlooking the lake, the restaurant draws inspiration from recipes and culinary traditions discovered across Punjab, from royal kitchens to generations-old family homes. For those seeking a deeper reset, the spa features a Turkish hammam scrub room and Roman tepidarium, while ASMI by Oberoi introduces a holistic approach to wellbeing rooted in the ancient philosophy of Pancha Kosha. Guests can also embrace the outdoors with forest bathing, mountain biking, all-terrain vehicle adventures, leisurely walks and time by the outdoor pool.

2. Mary Budden Estate, Binsar, Uttarakhand

For a long weekend devoted to doing less, Mary Budden Estate offers a rare kind of Himalayan escape. Set across five acres of wilderness in Binsar, the estate is enveloped by deodar and oak forests, allowing nature to become an intrinsic part of the experience. The days here are deliberately unhurried. Guests can set out on forest walks, discover the region's birdlife or explore trails such as Darwin's Walk and Lama's Path. Nearby temples, markets and local experiences offer an opportunity to discover Kumaon's culture and cuisine before returning to the quiet of the estate. There is no pressure to fill every hour. A long walk, a leisurely meal and an evening spent surrounded by the sounds of the forest are enough to make this Himalayan retreat feel like a genuine reset.

3. Narendra Bhawan Bikaner, Rajasthan

For travellers who like their long weekends steeped in history, art and culture, Narendra Bhawan Bikaner offers an immersive escape into the character of Rajasthan. Once the residence of Maharaja Narendra Singhji, the property reflects his life, travels and eclectic aesthetic, with its distinctive interiors and art-filled spaces becoming part of the stay. Spend the morning discovering the Bhawan before venturing into Bikaner to explore Junagarh Fort, historic temples and the city's atmospheric old bazaars. The destination also offers plenty for food lovers, from local specialities to leisurely meals back at the property. As the day winds down, return to Narendra Bhawan for a relaxed sundowner or an unhurried evening. The result is a getaway that combines the pleasure of discovering a historic city with the luxury of having nowhere else to be.

4. Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa, Gurugram

For those looking for a quick escape from the city, Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa, Gurugram offers a nature-led retreat at the foothills of the Aravallis. Spread across 20 acres of greenery, the resort brings together open landscapes, contemporary comfort and the restorative appeal of being surrounded by nature. Its 143 rooms, suites and private villas are designed as serene retreats, with select residences featuring private plunge pools. Earthy tones, rich textures, Indian folk-art accents and Mewati marble inlays create interiors inspired by the rugged beauty of the region. Dining is another highlight, with global favourites at Shamiana, North Indian flavours at Zvatra and cocktails and small plates at VIXX Lounge Bar. Those looking to truly switch off can retreat to J Wellness Circle for treatments inspired by Indian healing traditions, spend time by the outdoor pool or explore nearby attractions including Damdama Lake, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary and the Heritage Transport Museum.

5. Aahana Resort, Jim Corbett

For a long weekend that prioritises nature, wellness and a slower pace, Aahana Resort makes a compelling escape on the forested edges of Jim Corbett. Surrounded by greenery, the luxury retreat encourages guests to step away from packed itineraries and reconnect with the rhythms of the outdoors. Mornings begin with birdsong, while private pool villas offer a tranquil space to linger over the first hours of the day. Afternoons can be spent beside the plunge pool or on shaded nature trails, with the forest providing a constantly changing backdrop. The resort's culinary philosophy is centred around freshness and seasonality, with farm-to-table dishes prepared using produce from its organic gardens. Open-air dining spaces add to the experience, while the spa offers holistic therapies designed to help guests unwind and restore. Sometimes, a long weekend doesn't require an elaborate itinerary. At Aahana, the luxury lies in having the time and space to simply slow down.

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6. The Ten, Goa

With its combination of privacy, good food and easy access to North Goa, The Ten in Siolim makes an inviting choice for a long weekend with family or friends. Set against a quiet stretch of forest yet minutes from the region’s restaurants, galleries and beaches, the luxury boutique resort features ten suites and 25 bedrooms, which can also be taken over as a private estate. Suites are arranged around a central courtyard, with each featuring a private living room and stocked pantry, while five first-floor suites have private balconies and four ground-floor suites open onto individual plunge pools. Dining can be tailored across North Indian, Coastal Goan, European and Italian and BBQ cuisines, while The Ten Tables offers a private five- to six-course experience in-suite, in the terrace garden or poolside. With its deliberately intimate setting and proximity to North Goa’s highlights, the property brings together the privacy of a private retreat with the energy of a Goan getaway.

7. SAJ in the Forest, Pench

For a long weekend spent closer to nature, SAJ in the Forest, Pench offers an immersive escape surrounded by the region’s rich wildlife and natural landscapes. Located close to Pench National Park, the resort provides a convenient base for early-morning and evening jungle safaris, giving guests the opportunity to experience the forest and spot its diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. Beyond safari drives, days can be spent exploring the surrounding wilderness, enjoying nature-led experiences and returning to the resort to unwind after time in the forest. With October marking the beginning of the prime wildlife and safari season, Pench makes an appealing choice for families, couples and wildlife enthusiasts looking to turn the long weekend into an adventure.

8. The Passport Hotel, Goa

The Passport Hotel in Assagao offers a cocktail-led take on the Goan long weekend, combining a boutique stay with the opportunity to explore the state’s vibrant bar culture. Guests are welcomed with a cocktail and a personalised passport, while the MINI BAR and in-room DIY cocktail setups bring the experience into the rooms. At the rooftop Layover, an infinity pool and swim-up bar set the scene for laid-back afternoons, while the hotel’s Passport Stamping Programme encourages guests to discover partner bars across Goa and collect stamps along the way. For travellers looking for a short break built around cocktails, discovery and the unmistakable energy of Goa, the property offers a playful base for the holiday.

9. Peninsula Del Mar, Karnataka

Set across 25 acres along the Karnataka coast near Yermal Beach, Peninsula Del Mar offers a laid-back beachfront escape for those looking to spend the long weekend by the water. The property features ocean-view stays, an infinity pool overlooking the sea and SOL by the Sea, while its roster of experiences includes surfing, kayaking, Sea SUP and open-water swimming. The combination of a spacious coastal setting and water-based activities makes it easy to fill a few days with equal parts adventure and downtime. For those looking to explore a quieter side of coastal Karnataka, Peninsula Del Mar offers a relaxed change of pace for the October break.

10. Hotel Marine Plaza, Mumbai

For those who would rather skip the travel time altogether, Hotel Marine Plaza offers an easy Mumbai staycation overlooking the Arabian Sea on Marine Drive. The hotel’s spacious stays, sweeping sea views and central location make it a convenient base for exploring some of South Mumbai’s most iconic experiences, while also giving guests the option to simply slow down by the coast. Days can be spent discovering the city before returning for a leisurely meal overlooking the sea or an unhurried evening at the hotel. For couples, families and Mumbai residents looking for a quick change of scene, it offers a long-weekend escape without the need for a road trip.

11. The Haven by Sula, Nashik

Perched along tranquil Gangapur Lake with the Sahyadri hills as its backdrop, The Haven by Sula offers a scenic long-weekend escape that balances vineyard experiences with moments of calm. Guests can wake up to uninterrupted lake views, spend time by the infinity pool, enjoy a complimentary wine tasting or settle in for a laid-back meal at Café Dia. Expansive lawns and sweeping vineyard views add to the sense of space, while the surrounding vineyards provide plenty to explore during the stay. For a short break that combines scenic surroundings, wine and an unhurried pace, The Haven makes an easy choice for the October long weekend.

12. SaffronStays Hacienda by the Sea, Alibaug

For a long weekend by the coast, SaffronStays Hacienda by the Sea in Alibaug offers a spacious setting for families and groups to slow down and spend time together. This five-bedroom, Spanish-inspired villa combines modern comfort with vintage charm, with airy indoor-outdoor spaces, lush gardens, a private pool and balconies overlooking the Arabian Sea. Guests can spend the day by the pool, enjoy a picnic in the garden or gather over a meal prepared by the in-house chef, while the villa’s proximity to the coast makes it easy to head out for a beach day. Sasawane Beach is around five minutes away, while Mandwa and Awas Beaches are about 10 minutes away, making it a convenient choice for a relaxed coastal break with plenty of space to reconnect.

12. The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, Karnataka

Those looking to spend the long weekend surrounded by forests and coffee plantations, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary offers a quiet escape into Coorg’slandscape. Set within ancient woodland and an artisanal coffee estate, the sanctuary features 71 villas and a seven-acre lake, with forest-facing balconies and select villas offering private temperature-controlled pools. Between time outdoors, leisurely meals and afternoons spent on the villa balcony, the sanctuary offers plenty of ways to enjoy a few days at a slower pace

13. Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity

For those who want a long weekend reset without leaving Delhi, Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity offer an easy city staycation that brings together dining, leisure and wellness under one roof. It is a fuss-free option for those who want to step away from routine without spending hours on the road. From slow breakfasts and leisurely dinners to drinks, recreational time and spa treatments, the staycation offers a simple way to make the most of the long weekend before the festive calendar takes over.

14. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Pine N Peak, Pahalgam

For a long weekend that trades the city’s pre-festive frenzy for the quiet beauty of Kashmir, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Pine N Peak, Pahalgam offers a memorable family escape. Set on the Rajwas Plateau overlooking the Lidder River, the property brings together the holiday spirit with the region’s traditions, flavours and dramatic landscapes. Families can spend their days exploring Pahalgam, wandering through pine forests and discovering the stories and traditions that make the valley so distinctive.

15. Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Gurugram

When the October long weekend calls for a change of pace without venturing too far from Delhi NCR, Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa offers an easy escape into the tranquil Aravalis. It brings together accommodation, dining, wellness and recreation, allowing guests to make the most of a few unhurried days away. The resort is also pet-friendly, making it possible to bring the entire family along.

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