As 2018 draws to a close, it’s time to start planning for the next year. Our long weekend calendar spoils you for choice: there are options for Indian getaways for every month (even for those which do not have a long weekend). Bookmark the list, or scroll down for a printable version.
January
Photo by: Maniyarasan
The chilly month is ideal to explore Hampi’s boulders, or go on a craft trail in Andhra Pradesh. Birders, Mangalajodi, Bharatpur and Guwahati are full of surprises.
February
Photo by: Sun_shine/Shutterstock
Snow has settled in on the mountain peaks, and Gulmarg is buzzing with skiers. Here’s a ski-guide for beginners. If it’s cosy winters you chase, then West Bengal’s heritage homes have a lot to offer.
March
Photo by: Abhishek Hajela
Gorge on tribal delicacies in Arunachal Pradesh, explore Tripura’s Hall of Faces or revel in the folk traditions of the world’s largest river island in Assam—India’s northeast beckons. Or, be a part of Holi traditions in Mathura and Vrindavan.
April
Photo by: Supriya Kantak
When the sun’s out, so are the animals. Chase tigers in Tadoba, Ranthambore and Kanha or Pench. Or, travel to catch a glimpse of your favourite from our list of India’s fantastic beasts.
May
Photo by: Himanshu Khagta/Getty Images
Usually, summer holidays only ever mean one thing: the mountains. Head to Nainital, Mussoorie or Manali: they’re quintessential for a reason.
June
Photo by: Rana Pandey
Ramzan delights. As does the food on offer in the holy month. Trace Sufi shrines in Hyderabad, visit Calcutta’s Zakaria Street for a feast, follow our resident grinch’s guide to Bombay’s Ramzan, or go on an Afghan food walk in Delhi.
July
Photo by: Kounteya Sinha
While the country receives a soaking, there are mountains to scale. Go trekking in the Garwhal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, and if you do visit Ladakh, we have tips on how to take the perfect snap, and a story on why Lamayuru is closest you’ll get to a lunar landscape on Earth.
August
Photo by: Shivram/Shutterstock
Gujarat celebrates the monsoon with a month-long festival in Saputara. While you’re there, also stop at the grand Vadodara Palace, and shop for handicrafts in Kutch. Since August also marks India’s month of independence, it’s a good time to visit Amritsar’s Partition Museum.
September
Photo by: Federica Grassi/Moment/Getty Images
Set out in pursuit of underwater kingdoms in Andamans, or experience beautiful mountain traditions in Kashmir’s Gurez and Himachal Pradesh’s Miyar Valley.
October
Photo by: Shraddha Bhargava
Benaras lights up during Diwali, and is a sight to behold. Make time to visit the town’s classical music cafés. October is also the month of Durga Pujo, and we’ve got a roundup of the best pandals around the country.
November
Photo Courtesy: Atali Ganga
It’s rafting season. Roll with the rapids in Rishikesh: we’ve got you covered with stay options. Don’t want adventure? The nip in the air ensures it’s the perfect time to go heritage-spot hopping around the country.
December
Photo by: Neelima Vallangi
Kerala and Goa: the two places everyone visits in December. Go there, but this time, do it differently.
Get the printable version here.
Source: natgeotraveller.in
