Luxury Getaways For The Independence Day Long Weekend

Image: The Westin Himalayas

As more and more people embrace the idea of taking quick, short breaks to refresh and recharge, the travel landscape in India is evolving. From serene boutique stays to luxurious resorts, hospitality brands across the country are stepping up to meet the growing demand for easy escapes. With the Independence Day long weekend just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags and head off for a well-deserved getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of crisp mountain air, sun-soaked beaches, or a deep dive into local culture, these luxury escapes are perfect for a refreshing getaway this Independence Day long weekend.

Capella Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand going visa-free for Indians? A total game-changer. That spontaneous long weekend trip you’ve been dreaming of? It's now just a few clicks (and a flight) away. And if you're heading to Bangkok, there's one place that hits the sweet spot between calm and indulgence, Capella Bangkok.

While Bangkok buzzes with tuk-tuks, street markets, and non-stop nightlife, Capella feels like a hidden slice of calm tucked along the Chao Phraya River. It’s sleek, quiet, and has just enough distance from the chaos, without feeling too far from the action. Whether you're sipping coffee while watching the river roll by, or soaking in your private villa’s plunge pool, this is the kind of city break that feels more like a spa retreat. Opened in 2020, Capella brings that warm boutique hotel feel with all the perks of five-star luxury. Every room comes with a Capella Culturist (basically your personal guide to unlocking the city your way), and the dining? Let’s just say a Michelin-starred chef is involved, so you’re in very good hands.

If you’re the type who wants to explore by day and unwind in style by night, maybe sneak in a Thai massage at their Auriga spa—this place checks all the boxes. It's perfect for a romantic escape, a girls' trip, or even a solo reset if you're the treat-yourself kind.

Anantara Kalutara Resort, Sri Lanka

If you're thinking of making the most of the Independence Day long weekend, why not skip the usual hill station or Goa plan and head to Sri Lanka instead? Just a short flight from India, Sri Lanka offers everything you’d want from a quick international escape, gorgeous beaches, rich culture, great food, and warm hospitality. And if you want to do it in style, Anantara Kalutara Resort is the place to be.

Tucked away on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, this resort gives you something rare: both ocean and lagoon views, all around you. It feels like you're on your own little private island, but it’s actually just an hour’s drive from Colombo airport.

Beautifully designed by Geoffrey Bawa —one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic architects— at the property, you will find his signature style, tropical modernism, which blends indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. Think open-air spaces, cool courtyards, and an easy harmony with nature, all built with local materials and quiet elegance. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the family, there’s a space here for everyone. Stay in rooms and villas that open out to serene garden views, tranquil lagoon waters, or the rhythmic ocean waves. Some even come with private pools if you’re in the mood for a little extra indulgence.

Days here can be spent enjoying an Ayurvedic massage at the spa, lounging by the adults-only pool with antipasti and wine, or simply walking barefoot on the beach. Dining is a treat too—tuck into fresh seafood at Acquolina, plan a private barbecue on the beach, or go full romantic with a torch-lit dinner by the ocean or even in a treehouse perched over the river. Beyond the resort, Kalutara offers everything from sacred temples and spice gardens to boat rides along the Kalu River. Whether you’re seeking rest, romance, or a little cultural exploration, this quick hop across the ocean is just what a long weekend needs.

Tipai Wildlife Luxuries

If you’ve been craving a quiet escape into the wild without compromising on comfort, Tipai is just what this long weekend calls for. Located in the heart of Tipeshwar’s untouched wilderness—about a 2.5-hour drive from Nagpur Airport, this 34-acre retreat offers you a front-row seat to monsoon magic. Think open skies, lush forests, and rain-kissed mornings.

Each villa at Tipai blends into nature effortlessly, built using wood, bamboo, and stone. You get your own little sanctuary with an open-sky shower, a private plunge pool, and giant windows that look out into the forest.. Mornings begin with birdwatching trails led by naturalists who know the forest like the back of their hand. Afternoons are for wandering through muddy trails or curling up with chai by the window. Evenings? They’re pure magic, think pizza nights under the stars, bonfires, or slow dinners cooked using ingredients from the garden right outside.

For those travelling with kids, Tipai’s Junior Naturalist Programme is a thoughtful way to get them curious about the outdoors, with forest games, wildlife spotting, and mud painting. And if you're going solo or as a couple, you’ll find endless moments to pause—sketching under the trees, sipping tea by the window, or watching the rain fall in silence.

The food curated by Chef Amninder Sandhu will leave you salivating— each dish celebrates hyperlocal ingredients and community cooking. From slow-cooked biryanis at Talaabwali to forest dinners at Palaash, cooked entirely by village women, every meal feels rooted and meaningful. And honestly, there’s no better time than the monsoon to see the forest come alive.

Fairmont Udaipur Palace

There’s a new reason to plan that much-needed long weekend escape — and it’s tucked away in the regal charm of Udaipur. Say hello to Fairmont Udaipur Palace, the latest jewel in Rajasthan’s crown by Canadian luxury hospitality brand Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. This is the brand’s second outpost in the city, and it’s nothing short of breathtaking.

The property sprawls over 18 lush acres, surrounded by the serene Aravalli hills. Think tranquil mornings, grand architecture, and that quiet sense of luxury that instantly switches you into holiday mode. With 327 lavish rooms and suites, eight curated dining spots, and a wellness sanctuary that’ll soothe your city-worn senses, the palace promises both indulgence and peace.

Whether you’re here to unwind or celebrate something special, the hotel offers something for every kind of traveller. You’ll find an open-air courtyard with over 550 hand-carved marble columns, an Art Deco-style Imperial Ballroom perfect for a royal celebration, and evenings filled with live cultural performances under amber-hued skies.

The closest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, just about 45 minutes away by car. With good flight connectivity from major Indian cities, you can leave on a Friday and be sipping your welcome drink before sunset.

Relais & Châteaux Ran Baas, The Palace, Patiala

If you’re craving a break that’s rich in history, soaked in culture, and draped in regal charm — but without hopping on a long flight, let us point you to Ran Baas, The Palace in Patiala, Punjab. Just a 4.5-hour drive from Delhi, this gem makes for a smooth road trip that whisks you straight into the pages of India’s royal past.

Once the private quarters of the Patiala royal family and home to the prince’s wives, this palace has been beautifully brought back to life under the keen eye of celebrated architect Abha Narain Lambah. Everything, from hand-carved wooden furniture and marble floors to silk carpets and grand crystal chandeliers, tells a story.

And when we say luxury, the rooms and suites come with tranquil patios or gardens embodying the idea, making it perfect for slow mornings with chai. The Neel restaurant brings authentic Punjabi flavours to your plate, while The Patiala Bar is where heritage meets high spirits — think lively conversations over finely crafted cocktails. Looking to do more than just unwind? Join a Punjabi cooking class, explore the local markets with the hotel’s team, or book a spa treatment to completely switch off.

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

No one does royal opulence and grandeur quite like The Oberoi Group. If you're seeking a quick yet impactful getaway where luxury is the ultimate experience, The Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur is the perfect choice for you. The property features beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional architecture, offering luxurious accommodations, including tents inspired by the era of the Maharajas.

The on-site restaurants serve exquisite Rajasthani cuisine, all designed to pamper you. Indulge in a private dining experience, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, or participate in a private yoga session to stay engaged. For those who love cooking, you can join the "Cook with the Masters" program or take a tour of the iconic Hawa Mahal. Don't forget to indulge in a little retail therapy while you're there!

Coco Shambhala, Sindhudurg

Looking for a way to slow down and spend a long weekend immersed in nature? Coco Shambhala is just a 2-hour drive from Goa's MOPA airport, making it the perfect weekend getaway. Surround yourself with a lush green landscape filled with diverse flora and fauna that both calms and nurtures the mind. For adventure seekers, join the team for a hike, or simply unwind by the pool while enjoying the sea view from your villa. As the day draws to a close, savour delicious cocktails in your villa, and indulge in the in-room dining experience to ensure you are relaxed to the fullest.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas

If the mountains are calling this long weekend, why not head to The Westin Himalayas for a fun getaway this long Independence Day weekend? Nestled in the gorgeous hills of Uttarakhand, it’s only a five-hour drive from Delhi, making it the perfect spot to relax and refresh. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Akasa, then enjoy amazing live cultural performances throughout your stay. Don't miss the Westin Saga, where you can savour local brews and traditional snacks during a delightful Garhwali high tea, all while soaking in the beautiful ambience created by the sounds of the Ganga Aarti.

Food lovers are in for a treat with Chef Dhar’s special presentations of Laapi Chokha and Flavours of North India on August 15 and 16, all for just INR 2500 plus taxes per person. If you're looking for a little pampering, the Heavenly Spa will help you unwind, and Toya, their award-winning Asian restaurant, offers a delightful dining experience you won’t forget.

Dharana At Shillim

Just a short and scenic drive away from Mumbai or Pune, tucked deep within the lush Sahyadri range near Lonavala, lies Dharana at Shillim—a holistic retreat that invites you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. Surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Western Ghats, the retreat feels like a world away from the chaos of city life. Whether you’re seeking a quick detox to reset your body or simply craving some quiet time amidst nature, Dharana offers the ideal environment. Think misty mornings, overcast skies, and the soothing soundtrack of waterfalls cascading in the wild—all set against a dramatic backdrop of untouched forest.

Spread over an impressive 2,500 acres, with 320 acres carefully developed to preserve the natural topography, this serene, family-owned sanctuary is designed for those who value wellbeing, sustainability, and stillness. Here, every corner is a nudge toward slowing down. From immersive wellness programs and nourishing cuisine to peaceful hikes and forest bathing, Dharana at Shillim is not just a getaway—it’s a gentle return to balance

The Postcard Hideaway, Netravali

If boutique luxury hotels are what you seek, we have the perfect one for you. Nestled in Goa’s Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, The Postcard Hideaway focuses on slowing down and reconnecting with nature and yourself. With only 20 rooms, the resort offers a peaceful, quiet environment, far removed from the usual holiday rush. Your mornings begin with yoga under tall forest trees, followed by guided nature walks and Ayurvedic treatments that promote a sense of calm. Meals are prepared using local ingredients and inspired by Goan flavours, keeping things simple and wholesome. If you're looking to celebrate Independence Day by escaping the everyday routine, this hidden forest retreat provides the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and truly breathe.

Sangam Farms, Bhilwara

Looking for a fresh escape? Set your sights on Udaipur and take a scenic drive to Sangam Farms, a luxe glamping hideaway tucked away in the lush landscapes of Bhilwara, Rajasthan. Whether you’re craving an adventurous break, a serene solo getaway, or a charming family retreat, this all-vegetarian sanctuary ticks all the boxes. Think misty monsoon mornings, luxurious safari tents, and wholesome farm-fresh breakfasts to start your day right.

Explore the natural beauty around you, on foot, by bicycle, or even on an ATV. The earthy, contemporary interiors inside the tents blend beautifully with the raw, rustic surroundings, creating a vibe that’s equal parts comfort and wilderness. Life here revolves around nature, ride a tractor through the farm like you did as a kid, feed the cows, or get competitive on the surprisingly stylish pickleball court. Evenings are for slow living, gathering around a bonfire under starry skies, and feasting on traditional Rajputana-style outdoor dinners.

The food at Sangam Farms is as thoughtful as the setting. Inspired by the “seed to plate” philosophy, everything is sourced locally, cooked mindfully, and served with heart. Expect a menu full of global vegetarian delights that feel both nourishing and indulgent, all while treading lightly on the planet.