When the Calendar Gives You Three Days Off, This Is Where to Go

Acasa, Alibaug; Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan

With Republic Day falling on a Monday this year, the calendar has gifted us the ultimate luxury — a three-day window to escape the city’s hum. A long weekend shouldn't be spent navigating airport queues or complex itineraries. Instead, it’s a time for the "staycation"— a chance to check into a property that feels like a destination in its own right.

From the mist-heavy valleys of the Himalayas to the regal courtyards of Rajasthan and the easy-breezy coast of Alibaug, here's a curated list of retreats that offer more than just a room. These are places with soul, where architecture tells a story, and the service feels like a warm welcome from an old friend. Whether you’re looking for a digital detox or a decadent royal romp, here is our definitive guide on where to drop your bags for a long weekend getaway this January.

Wellness Sanctuaries

Six Senses Vana, Dehradun

If your goal for the long weekend is a total system reboot, Six Senses Vana is unmatched. Set in the tranquil Himalayan foothills, it doesn’t feel like a hotel; it feels like a sanctuary where the outside world simply ceases to exist. The rooms are intentionally minimalistic — think neutral tones and soft textures that don’t compete for your attention.

Guests start their stay with a personal consultation, followed by a bespoke schedule of Tibetan healing, yoga, and meditation. The food is genuinely nourishing rather than just "healthy," designed to complement your specific wellness journey. It is the kind of place where you trade your phone for a white kurta and spend your days refocusing on sleep and inner balance. For those looking to truly slow down, it is a deeply restorative escape that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Kinwani House, Rishikesh

There is a specific kind of magic in staying at a meticulously restored 1954 Art Deco royal residence. Kinwani House feels like stepping into a more elegant era, with the added luxury of sweeping views over the sacred Ganges winding through the valley below. The suites are expansive, featuring private balconies that are practically made for sunrise yoga or a quiet morning coffee while watching the mist lift off the hills.

The interior design is a love letter to heritage, filled with family-curated artwork and local materials. The heated infinity pool is a masterstroke, mirroring the surrounding mountains—a perfect spot for a dip even in the crisp January air. Evenings here are best spent in the striking glass conservatory for a candlelit dinner under the stars. It’s a heritage sanctuary that trades the city’s relentless pace for pine-scented treks and fireside reflection.

Ananda in the Himalayas

Checking in at Ananda feels like entering another world as the palace gates reveal a retreat devoted to holistic wellness. Set on a 100-acre estate, the property overlooks the spiritual hub of Rishikesh and the River Ganga. The guest rooms are elegantly classic; the Deluxe rooms offer private balconies where you can watch parakeets flit through the trees. Even the large bathtubs are positioned to offer remarkable views of the valley, making evening soaks especially memorable. The world-class spa integrates Ayurveda with international touches, while the cuisine follows Ayurvedic principles without sacrificing taste. It remains the gold standard for those seeking to balance body, mind, and soul in a truly majestic setting.

Royal Heritage & Hilltop Views

Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan

Staying at Fort Barwara feels like being a guest in a 14th-century royal household updated for the modern world. The architecture spells out grandeur with a regal feel, yet the atmosphere is one of contemporary wellness and calm. Rooms masterfully blend heritage stone walls and traditional motifs with high-end comforts. Between immersive spa rituals and farm-to-table dining—where ingredients are plucked from the fort’s organic garden—the experience is incredibly polished. It is the perfect choice for a long weekend if you want to soak in Rajasthan’s history without sacrificing luxury. Whether wandering the restored fort walls or indulging in a signature treatment, the resort offers a rare balance of regal legacy and deep relaxation.

Fateh Vilas, Udaipur

Tucked away in the lush jungle near the Aravalli Hills overlooking the stunning views of Lake Pichola, Fateh Vilas captures the palace legacy of Rajasthan with vast, sun-drenched courtyards and terraces. The rooms are genuinely opulent, spanning a magnamious the 700 sq. ft. The suite at Fateh Vilas Suite comes with its own private plunge pool—a real treat for a private afternoon soak. Culinary offerings shine through multi-cuisine dining in both elegant indoor and alfresco settings, featuring authentic Rajasthani flavours. It’s close enough to the city for a quick visit to the City Palace, yet feels entirely secluded. Rooted in Mewar's storied legacy, this property makes every stay feel like a truly regal experience, perfect for a sophisticated three-day break.

Ran Baas The Palace, Patiala

Ran Baas, The Palace offers an authentic royal experience in Patiala, Punjab, as a restored 18th-century heritage property within the Qila Mubarak complex, once serving as a guesthouse for queens rather than exclusively the princes' wives' residence. The renovation preserves original features like carved wood furnishings, painted ceilings, sheesh mahals, and nanakshahi brick walls, while suites such as the Legacy options feature intricate heritage décor with private terraces overlooking courtyards. The Presidential Suite emphasises high ceilings and antiques across spacious layouts, complemented by a heated outdoor pool and full-service spa for indulgent tranquillity amid Punjab's regal legacy.

Fateh Garh, Udaipur

Perched on a hilltop, Fateh Garh was constructed according to Vastu Shastra principles to ensure a sense of harmony and balance. The Heritage Chambers and Plunge Pool Suites are designed with traditional motifs and offer panoramic balconies with views of the City Palace and Monsoon Palace. The property feels like a living museum, housing a remarkable collection of vintage cars and offering activities like archery and zip-lining. The Baradari restaurant serves authentic Mewari cuisine, providing a "farm-to-fork" experience with local ingredients. It is a grand, hillside sanctuary that offers a different perspective on Udaipur, making it an ideal choice for a culturally rich and visually stunning staycation.

Wilderness & Natural Escapes

Araiya Gir, Gujarat

Set on the fringes of Sasan Gir National Park, Araiya Gir is a sophisticated base for wildlife enthusiasts. The 48 villas are designed to blend into the forest, featuring earthy textures and warm interiors. Expert naturalists lead safaris to spot Asiatic lions, while guided dawn walks reveal the forest’s quieter side. After a day in the wild, you can unwind in a private plunge pool or savour a mix of Gujarati specialities at the all-day restaurant. Evenings are atmospheric, often spent around a bonfire with local folk music under a starlit sky. It’s a refined safari experience that prioritises both comfort and a deep connection to the natural heritage of Gujarat.

Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa

Tucked between the Malani Hills and the Kosi River, this resort is a perfect spot for an "adventure-meets-reset" weekend. The vibe is a blend of forest exploration and deep relaxation; you can spend your mornings on sunrise safaris and your afternoons at the Quan Spa for Ayurvedic therapies. The rooms provide a comfortable, contemporary base to soak in the surrounding wilderness. Dining is a standout, with The Corbett Kitchen serving authentic Kumaoni flavours like Bhatt ki Churkani and Gahat Dal. Whether you’re enjoying cocktails at the Sal Bar or taking a village trail walk, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a change of pace within a lush forest setting.

The Mudhouse Marayoor, Kerala

Located near Munnar, The Mudhouse is an eco-friendly haven that feels like stepping into a sanctuary of simplicity. The accommodation is earthy and elegant, featuring mud houses and unique treehouses designed with deep respect for the land. The property is a birdwatcher’s paradise, surrounded by vibrant gardens and the lush hills of Marayoor. The staff and owners treat guests like family, and the food—overseen by the owner’s mother—is incredible local fare that makes you feel truly at home. It is a magical place focused on sustainability, where the absence of a pool is forgotten in favour of walks to the river and soaking in the nurturing, generous environment.

Refined Modernity

Oberoi Sukhvilas, New Chandigarh

Set against the backdrop of the 8,000-acre Siswan Forest, Oberoi Sukhvilas is a masterclass in tranquil luxury. The resort combines traditional architecture with modern opulence, offering spacious rooms and villas with spectacular views of the forest or landscaped gardens. The spa experience is legendary, featuring world-class facilities and a relaxing outdoor jacuzzi as part of its hydrotherapy. Dining at 'Kanan' offers a picturesque landscape for enjoying exquisite Indian and international flavours. It is a dream stay for those seeking unmatched peace and privacy, with thoughtful service that makes every guest—including the youngest ones—feel exceptionally well-looked after.

Terra Mulberry Shades, Bangalore

Nestled at the foothills of Nandi Hills, this Tribute Portfolio resort is a serene escape from Bangalore's city hustle. The property is lush and focused on nature, featuring spacious heritage-style cottages and luxury suites with balconies that offer breathtaking views. The "Terra" dining experience is a highlight, known for its lavish breakfast spreads and courteous service. For a touch of magic, the resort can arrange candlelight dinners under the stars. It is also pet-friendly, making it a perfect short getaway for the whole family. While the property is cosy and easy to explore, the top-notch spa and pool provide everything needed for a weekend of pure relaxation.

Acasa, Alibaug

Acasa is the ultimate coastal getaway—just a swift ferry ride across the harbour. This newly launched 5-bedroom villa is designed for social weekends, featuring a sun-kissed private pool and a cutting-edge home theatre. The rooms are stylish and airy, with balconies overlooking lush greenery that are perfect for slow mornings. Thoughtful touches like rainfall bathrooms and terrace gardens complete the "home-away-from-home" feel. Whether you’re heading out for a sunset walk on the beach or staying in for a bonfire and BBQ, it’s a festive sanctuary that blends national pride with soul-deep relaxation.

Cinnamon Life, Colombo

If you fancy a quick international trip, Cinnamon Life is Colombo’s newest architectural landmark. Designed by Cecil Balmond, it is South Asia’s largest integrated resort and feels impressively high-energy. The infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean is the place to be at sunset—the views are quite simply unmatched. The rooms are sleek and modern, providing a quiet contrast to the vibrant dining scene, which ranges from bold Cantonese at Sapphire Dragon to contemporary Indian at Indiya. Situated in the heart of the cultural district, it offers the perfect blend of city energy and elevated retreat for a quick three-day international reset.

Voco, Dubai

Located on the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road, Voco Dubai is a contemporary urban retreat perfect for a quick international escape. The hotel offers stylish rooms with panoramic views of the city skyline, providing a vibrant and comfortable base for the long weekend. Between the relaxed dining options and the rooftop pool, there are plenty of ways to unwind without even leaving the property. However, its prime location means you have easy access to Dubai’s world-class shopping and cultural hotspots. It is an ideal choice for those who want a long weekend that feels both indulgent and effortlessly connected to the buzz of one of the world's most dynamic cities.

Six Senses Bhutan

For those seeking a truly spiritual long weekend, Six Senses Bhutan offers "lodges" across Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, each perched high with jaw-dropping valley views. The design is inspired by traditional dzong fortresses, featuring light-flooded suites with wood-burning stoves and antique rugs. The service is exceptionally personalised—staff will even build a fire and bring hot water bottles if you wish to dine outside in the crisp air. Each lodge has a distinct theme but shares a commitment to wellness and incredible local-themed cuisine. It is an upscale experience that feels deeply local, offering a mix of active trekking and quiet contemplation in the "Land of the Thunder Dragon."

Ultimately, the beauty of a January long weekend lies in its timing. It is that rare pocket of the year when the festive frenzy has faded, leaving behind crisp air, clear skies, and a collective desire for a "second reset" before the year truly gains its momentum. As you plan your escape fora weekend getaway, remember that the best staycations are the ones where the journey is short, but the sense of distance from the everyday is absolute. Pack light, leave the laptop behind, and let these sanctuaries do the rest.