Need an excuse to take a holiday? Well, we have a good one. The 11th of August is Raksha Bandhan, and if you manage to take an off on the 12th you will have a solid five-day Independence day weekend. You don’t have to scout for off-beat places or book exorbitantly-priced tickets to the foothills of the Himalayas. Some of the best places to visit in August in India could be just a hop, skip, and jump from your city, so just take a break and unwind.
But if you ask us, here are the 7 best places to go to on the Independence Day long weekend in 2022 and celebrate:
1. Goa
A couple of beers by the beach can awaken the patriot in you better than a cup of tea. Make the most of your Independence Day weekend by taking that much-awaited trip to Goa. With the ongoing monsoon season, prices of hotels will be slashed down and the touristy crowd will be washed away, making it the perfect weekend getaway spot. There are plenty of things to do in Goa, even during the rainy season. Goa Tourism has introduced monsoon treks for tourists to explore the state’s natural beauty. A hike to Hivrem falls or a cycle expedition to Divar island are exciting ways to spend your time.
2. Bengaluru
The Silicon Valley of India is one of the best places to visit in August for your Independence Day trip. The weather is refreshingly pleasant allowing you to explore the city’s magnificent architecture and striking forts. Hidden under the towering skyline of Bengaluru is the city’s old glory. With plenty of things to do in Bangalore, start with the city’s oldest landmark—Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. The Bangalore Palace, an architectural marvel, is a treasure trove of old British war stories. End your day at Cubbon Park with a late-night stroll after dinner.
3. Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
Your Independence Day trip to the revolutionary city of Jhansi will take you on a patriotic journey back in time. Come 15th August, the heart of Bundelkhand comes to life to pay homage to its ancestors who fought their battles for India’s freedom. Jhansi is home to Rani Laxmi Bai, Tantya Tope, and Nana Sahib—the heroes who fought the British Raj and succumbed in battle, but never laid their heads down. The Rani Mahal and Jhansi Fort on Bangara Hill are interesting tourist spots in the city.
4. Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar, one of the most frequented places to visit a long weekend on Independence Day, plays an integral and dark role in India’s freedom struggle. A city that houses the magnificent Golden Temple, a symbol of generosity and peace, also has the Jallianwala Bagh—a site of fortitude and the infamous massacre. Fuelling our inner Bhagat Singh, the city of Amritsar during Independence Day is flooded with tourists who visit the city to commemorate the sacrifices made by India's heroic freedom fighters. While here, also visit the Partition Museum that captures aftermath of Indian independence in the most unique way.
5. Dandi, Gujarat
A quaint village in Gujarat, Dandi holds a significant position in India’s fight for freedom. For your Independence Day weekend, take a trip to the illustrious village of Dandi, where Mahatma Gandhi concluded his peaceful protest, Salt Satyagraha against the British. Dandi’s gripping history, pristine beaches, and scenic beauty make it the perfect getaway destination. Pay homage by learning about the Salt Satyagraha at the National Memorial, and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the beach after.
6. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Yesteryear’s Bombay and today’s Mumbai are two sides of the same coin, yet starkly different. A port city that played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, Bombay gave shelter to Mahatma Gandhi at Mani Bhawan for 17 years, where he sparked the flame of free India. A short trip to the culturally vibrant Mumbai today will give you a sweet taste of freedom with a slightly spicy vada pav to gobble on as you walk along the bustling Juhu Beach.
7. Kolkata, West Bengal
Steeped in history, the colourful city of Kolkata was once the headquarters for the British. A hotbed for revolutionary freedom fighters like Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh, Kolkata is one of the best places to visit in August in India. Get a glimpse of British architecture at the Victoria Memorial Hall. Experience the city’s deep-rooted culture at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Lastly, devour their lip-smacking delicacies at an authentic Bengali restaurant. With full bellies and fuller hearts, it is no surprise that they call Kolkata the city of joy.
This Independence Day weekend, take time out to give yourself a break from your mundane routine. Stroll through lanes that share a story of India’s vibrant past. Indulge in leisure activities, and celebrate the freedom you have today, and count your blessings while doing so.